HONOLULU (KHON2) -- Microplastics are tiny pieces of plastic that come from larger plastic items breaking down over time. These small particles can last for hundreds of years and can enter our bodies through the food we eat, the water we drink and the air we breathe.
The University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa has started a groundbreaking study to explore how these microplastics affect our lung health, thanks to a three-year grant of $352,126 from the National Science Foundation.
Professor Yi Zuo is a professor of mechanical engineering in the College of Engineering and adjunct professor of pediatrics in the John A. Burns School of Medicine.
He is leading the study and explained that microplastics are a serious threat to water quality, marine life, ecosystems and human health. Microplastics have even been found in the blood and lungs of healthy people.
“Our research is crucial because microplastics are everywhere in our environment, posting serious threats to water quality, marine wildlife and ecosystems, and human health,” said Zuo. “Microplastics have been found in the blood and lungs of healthy humans, highlighting an urgent need to understand their impact on our health, particularly our ability to breathe.”
This highlights the urgent need to understand how these tiny particles impact our ability to breathe.
Hawaiʻi's environment is especially affected by microplastics. The state's waters and beaches are among the most polluted in the world.
Hawaiʻi is located near the Great Pacific Garbage Patch, a massive collection of marine debris in the North Pacific Ocean.
This causes a lot of plastic waste to wash up on Hawaiʻi's beaches, with Kamilo Beach, also known as "Plastic Beach," being one of the most polluted spots on the planet.
Preliminary results from Zuo’s research, published in Environmental Science and Technology, show that nanoscale plastic particles can accumulate on the surface of a lung fluid called pulmonary surfactant.
This fluid helps make breathing easier, and when microplastics interfere with its function, it can make breathing more difficult.
In addition to studying the scientific aspects, the project also focuses on engaging the community and promoting diversity in science.
Professor Zuo plans to work with local nonprofit organizations to raise awareness about the dangers of microplastics and to advocate for reducing children's exposure to plastics to protect their health.
The research team is also committed to including underrepresented groups in their work. This includes Native Hawaiians, Pacific Islanders, and students from low-income families, aligning with the university's goal of fostering inclusivity in scientific research.
Microplastics are not just a problem for the ocean—they affect us all. Understanding their impact on our health is crucial, and projects like this one at the University of Hawaiʻi at Mānoa are leading the way in uncovering the dangers these tiny particles pose.
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By raising awareness and promoting community involvement, we can all play a part in tackling this pressing issue.