Microplastics in the environment

The report provides an overview of the current state of research on the occurrence and detection of small plastic particles and plastic fragments in the environment. The Federal Environment Agency experts are investigating how microplastics can spread through air and soil to groundwater. For this purpose, a special analysis was developed at the Federal Environment Agency, which enables the detection of plastics in various environmental samples in the lower micrometer range. The risks of (micro)plastics are still little researched. The critical particle size for the continuity of organs and cell walls is in the nanometer range. Comprehensive studies are required for a holistic risk assessment. Recommendations for policy makers and consumers show how the burden of (micro)plastics can be reduced.