Microplastics and recreational water

Microplastics pollution in recreational water has become increasingly prominent and has received widespread attention in the last years. Microfibers, very short textile fibres (less than 5 millimetres long), are the most common microplastics released into water environments. It has been estimated that each year, trillions of microfibres are released into the environment due to the washing of textiles, with most of them ultimately ending up in the ocean. Microfibres from the washing of plastic-based textiles, such as polyester, acrylic, and nylon, have been identified as a major contributor to this problem. The annual market of swimwear strongly contributes to microfibers release. The extended use at the pool or the beach will result in the introduction of microplastic fibres directly into the water. The average swimsuit contains a mixture of manmade fibres, including nylon (polyamide) and either elastane, spandex or lycra (polyurethane) in the outer, with a polyamide or polyester lining. A prolonged exposition to chlorine and salt can compromise the strength of the fibres and promote the breaking. The sun is a problem too. Ultraviolet rays damage the structure of plastic, making fibres more brittle and prone to breaking. There are several environmental and health concerns related to microplastics release. The small size of microplastics results in their uptake by a wide range of aquatic species disturbing their physiological functions, which then go through the food web creating adverse health issues in humans. Recent research reveals that viruses can survive and stay infectious for up to three days by 'hitchhiking' on plastic pollution in fresh water. Thus, its release should be carefully estimated to plan proper policies in the next future.