Microplastics and nanoplastics pose growing environmental and health concerns, yet their formation pathways remain unclear. This research compiles data from nearly 300 studies to model plastic degradation and identifies key roles of plastic type and weathering process. Lab experiments reveal mechanical wear can directly generate nanoplastics, improving risk assessment and mitigation strategies.

This research investigates how microplastics and nanoplastics affect human cells. Using laboratory models that mimic the digestive system, it examines how particle size and concentration influence toxicity. The findings show that smaller particles are more harmful, providing evidence that can inform safety regulations and reduce human exposure to plastic pollution.

Microplastics are increasingly found in human bodies, driven by everyday plastic use such as milk bottles. This research examines why consumers continue choosing plastic and identifies systemic barriers to reusable options. By improving affordability, convenience, and incentives, sustainable choices can become the default rather than the exception.

This research examines how real-world microplastics and nanoplastics affect human brain immune cells. Using plastics from everyday consumer items, it shows rapid cellular stress and mitochondrial damage linked to neurodegenerative disease. The findings suggest current laboratory studies may underestimate the true health risks of chronic plastic exposure.