Study suggests everyday household item releases millions of plastic fibers with every scrub
Millions of people rely on melamine foam sponges to scrub away tough messes in their homes, but a new study warns these convenient cleaning tools may be releasing trillions of tiny plastic particles into the environment each month.
Researchers published their findings in the journal Environmental Science & Technology, detailing how the breakdown of these sponges releases microplastic fibers (MPFs) – fragments less than five micrometers in size – potentially harming human health and ecosystems.
“These sponges are very effective at cleaning,” said lead researcher [scientist’s name], affiliated with [research institute/university], “but the downside is that as they wear down, they release these microplastics.”
The study assessed the breakdown rate of melamine sponges and the number of MPFs they shed during use. Researchers rubbed sponges from various brands against textured surfaces, mimicking real-world wear and tear.
A single sponge, the study revealed, could release a staggering 6.5 million MPFs per gram of worn-out material. Extrapolating this data, researchers estimated global emissions from sponge consumption could be as high as 4.9 trillion MPFs monthly.
This number may be even higher, they caution, as their analysis only considered sales data from one major online retailer.
The researchers also found that sponges made from denser foam wore down slower and released fewer MPFs. This suggests manufacturers could play a role in reducing environmental impact by developing more durable sponges.
Consumers, the study suggests, can minimize the problem by opting for natural cleaning alternatives whenever possible.
The presence of microplastics in the environment is a growing concern. These tiny particles can be ingested by wildlife and make their way up the food chain, potentially reaching humans. Microplastics have also been linked to various health problems, including immune system disruption and certain cancers.
The study’s findings add to the growing body of evidence on microplastic pollution and underscore the need for solutions that address this environmental threat.