Ah, glitter—the sparkly bane of many parents’ existence! It’s adored by children for their DIY projects and by teens who love to incorporate it into their makeup routines. However, the cleanup can be an absolute nightmare, and now scientists are raising alarms about its environmental impact too. Glitter is made from microplastics, tiny plastic particles that pose a serious threat to our ecosystems, particularly in marine environments. According to the EPA, about 90% of the plastics found in open ocean waters are microplastics.
These pesky particles from glitter, along with microbeads in cosmetics and synthetic materials, can easily evade wastewater treatment systems, ultimately ending up in our oceans. This not only harms marine wildlife but also disrupts entire food chains. A 2021 study by researcher Mia Thompson at the University of Marine Sciences found that exposure to microplastics can impede the growth of various marine species, including snails, suggesting significant ecological consequences.
While the United States previously enacted The Microbead-Free Waters Act in 2015, which banned plastic microbeads in rinse-off cosmetics, glitter remains a loophole in that legislation. Both craft and cosmetic glitter contribute equally to pollution, yet they aren’t being regulated.
What Can We Do About Our Glitter Dilemma?
A total ban would certainly limit the sparkle in our children’s art projects, but fear not—eco-glitter is here to save the day! Numerous companies now offer biodegradable, environmentally friendly alternatives that provide the same joy without the harmful effects on marine life. By opting for eco-glitter, we can delight our kids while making a positive impact on the planet. After all, the glitter we use today will likely stick around in our homes—especially in those hard-to-reach carpet fibers—for years to come.
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Conclusion
In summary, while glitter is a beloved crafting staple, its environmental impact cannot be overlooked. Scientists are advocating for its ban, but eco-friendly alternatives can bring joy to creative projects without harming our planet. Parents can rejoice as they make more sustainable choices!