Microplastics (MPs) have emerged as a major pollutant in the 21^st Century due to their ubiquity, recalcitrance, and impact on environmental and human health.  MPs range from 1 to 5 micrometers, while smaller nanoplastics (MNPs) are less than 1 micrometer, which enable increased proliferation in and harm to living organisms. 

MPs and MNPs have been found everywhere on planet earth, from the tops of mountains to the depths of bodies of water, on glaciers, in the air that we breathe and the soil that we use to grow our food, in plants and animals and human beings.  The presence of MPs and MNPs in our bodies has been linked to various health impacts, including inflammation, dementia, heart attack and stroke.  Yet, our yearly plastic production continues to grow, thereby increasing the plastic burden for generations to come. 

We must start addressing the issue of plastic in our lives by reducing plastic usage, reusing and recycling items whenever possible.  We can begin with individual changes and action by the local church. 

As stewards of God’s Creation, created in the image of God, we remember that the world and everything in it belongs to the Lord and choose to live in a way that honors our Savior and allows creation to flourish.    

Written by Jessica Lu