Carpets, Clothes, Dashboards - What's Happening Deep in the Lungs? The Reality of Indoor-Derived Microplastics

According to the latest research by a team from the University of Toulouse in France, introduced by Forbes JAPAN and published in PLOS One, we may be inhaling approximately 68,000 particles of microplastics (MP) ranging from 1 to 10μm, which can easily reach deep into our lungs, daily while indoors or in vehicles. The study collected air samples from various households and vehicles and analyzed them using Raman spectroscopy. It detected a median of 528 particles/m³ in homes and 2238 particles/m³ in vehicles, suggesting an exposure level "100 times greater" than previous estimates. Reports also indicate that the concentration of airborne MPs indoors is eight times higher than outdoors, and settled dust is 30 times higher, suggesting that indoor environments, where we spend about 90% of our day, are the primary route of exposure. On social media, alongside concerns, there is widespread sharing of countermeasures such as using HEPA filters, reconsidering synthetic fiber clothing and dryers, and ensuring thorough ventilation and cleaning. However, there are also criticisms regarding the small sample size and statistical significance. A practical first step is to focus on the sources of this "invisible fog" and reduce exposure through careful material selection and improvements in ventilation and cleaning practices.