Microplastics

Microplastics are plastic particles smaller than 5 mm and larger than 1 mm. They contribute to contamination in the sea and the Ocean and are classified as primary or secondary.

Primary microplastics are released directly as particles: they can be intentionally added to products (for example, cosmetic exfoliants) or originate from the abrasion of plastic items during manufacture, use, or maintenance, such as tire wear or the abrasion of synthetic textiles during washing.

Secondary microplastics derive from the fragmentation of larger plastic objects exposed to the environment through photodegradation and other weathering processes, typically from mismanaged waste (for example, bags or fishing nets).

👉 Read How to classify micro and macroplastics? to know more.