Nanoplastics in Drinking Water – An Invisible Danger to Our Health
Smaller than microplastics, but just as dangerous
Nanoplastics – plastic particles smaller than 1 micrometer – are becoming an increasing concern for water quality and human health. While much attention has been given to microplastics, the presence of even smaller plastic fragments in drinking water remains largely unnoticed. These invisible particles can penetrate human cells, cross biological barriers, and accumulate in organs.
A recent study from Columbia University has confirmed that nanoplastics are present in both tap and bottled water, with some samples containing thousands of particles per liter. Given their minuscule size, nanoplastics can evade standard filtration systems, making them difficult to remove from drinking water.
Growing evidence of health impacts
Although research on the long-term effects of nanoplastics is still in its early stages, studies suggest that they pose serious risks. Scientists from the University of Vienna recently found that nanoplastics can cross the blood-brain barrier, potentially leading to neurological effects. Other studies indicate that nanoplastics may contribute to inflammatory responses, oxidative stress, and metabolic disorders.
In 2023, researchers at Stanford University discovered that nanoplastics can bind to essential proteins in the body, disrupting normal cellular functions. This raises concerns about their potential link to immune system dysregulation and chronic diseases.
Nanoplastics and chemical contamination
Beyond the plastic particles themselves, nanoplastics also carry a cocktail of chemical additives, many of which are known to disrupt hormones and impact human health. These include bisphenols, phthalates, and flame retardants, which can leach from plastic waste into water sources. The European Chemicals Agency (ECHA) has classified several of these substances as highly hazardous, yet they continue to enter our environment.
A call for action: Filtration and regulation
Despite the mounting evidence of harm, regulations on nanoplastics remain inadequate. The UNEP Global Plastics Treaty, currently under negotiation, aims to address plastic pollution, but no binding restrictions on nanoplastics in water have been introduced. Meanwhile, researchers emphasize the urgent need for improved filtration technologies to remove nanoplastics from drinking water.
At Klar2O GmbH, we are at the forefront of microplastic and nanoplastic filtration. Our Smart Surface Technology is designed to capture even the smallest plastic particles, ensuring safer drinking water for households and industries.
What can we do?
- Reduce plastic consumption: Opt for glass or stainless steel instead of plastic containers.
- Filter drinking water: Use advanced filtration systems capable of capturing nanoplastics.
- Support regulatory change: Advocate for stricter controls on plastic production and disposal.
Nanoplastics may be invisible, but their impact on human health is real. By investing in better filtration solutions and sustainable practices, we can take steps to protect our water, our health, and our future.
Source: Columbia University, Department of Environmental Health Sciences, 2024.
University of Vienna, Institute of Environmental Sciences, 2023.
Stanford University, School of Medicine, 2023.