Home Time for a new, multidisciplinary approach to the study of microplastics in the environment In recent years, there has been a growing body of research on nano- and micro-plastics and the potential risks for human health and the environment. As styrenics industry, we are very aware of the issue of micro-plastics and are committed to our goal to end all plastic pollution by 2040 through a circular economy. For more information on our ongoing efforts for the safety and circularity of styrenics, please see here. As part of our commitments, we have been collaborating with regulators and scientists to better understand how microplastics are formed, their impact, and to propose measures to mitigate their release. A recently published peer-reviewed study emphasised the need for a more comprehensive research approach on polystyrene micro-plastics, aiming to better evaluate their potential impacts in real-world settings. Discrepancies between lab-studies and real-world polystyrene microplastics The study investigates the relevance of styrene-based nano- and micro-plastics particles used to support exposure, toxicity and risk assessment, and their difference compared to commercially available polystyrene. While in laboratory studies it is common practice to use synthetic “model” particles, scientifically known as “monodispersed polystyrene microspheres” (PSMs), nano- and micro-particles from commercially available polystyrene (e.g. via UV light induced degradation) present significant differences and a level of complexity that is not taken into consideration in research, affecting the assessment of potential health implications. Differences in chemical composition, size and shape, among other aspects, affect environmental absorption and hence the validity and reliability of studies. For example, plastic particles found in the environment – whether from a discarded food container or a plastic bottle – break down into different shapes and sizes, showing significant variation right from the start. In contrast, PSMs used in most studies published to date are uniform. In addition, PSMs often come with extra coatings, such as different families of sulphates and fluorophores, as well as dyes/markers which have important implications when attempting to interpret the results of laboratory studies. Thus, PSMs and “real-life” micro-particles generated from polystyrene in the environment do not have much in common with regards to their chemical structure and therefore also regarding their physical and chemical properties. In conclusion, as emphasized by the study, the critical difference between styrene-based micro-particles used in studies and “real-life” micro-particles means that research on the topic does not accurately represent the real-life risks associated with micro-plastics exposure. Ensuring a robust approach for accurate research and response Regulators across the world are trying to find ways to address the issue of micro-plastics in the environment. Notably, 127 countries are currently negotiating an international legally binding Global Plastics Pollution Treaty. Given the importance of the issue of micro-plastics, the impact on human health and the environment, as well as potential socio-economic effects, any measures must be based on robust approaches rooted in real-life scenarios. The study suggests developing a holistic framework to generate and reliably measure the toxicological profile of micro-plastics in the environment, based on input from a multidisciplinary team of experts. We will continue supporting sound-science measures that will address the root cause of microplastic pollution and maintain our unwavering commitment to a steadfast delivery of the circularity ambitions of our sector. Posted on 10 December 2024