Articles

Quantification and Characterization of Microplastics in Five Popular Indian Toothpaste Brands – A Comprehensive Analysis

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This research has investigated the presence and composition of microplastics in five popular toothpaste brands in India. Using a novel wet peroxide digestion method, the study successfully isolated and quantified microplastics in each brand, highlighting significant variations in concentration and polymer types. Sample S4 had the highest microplastic concentration (0.248 g/g) and the largest particle size (30 micrometers), while other brands exhibited lower levels. FTIR and AFM analyses identified multiple polymer types, including PET, PP, and PTFE, with sample S4 displaying complex surface topography, indicative of increased environmental interaction and pollutant absorption. One-way ANOVA confirmed significant differences in microplastic particle sizes across the brands. The study also performed principal component analysis (PCA), showing the intricate co-occurrence of polymers across samples, suggesting synergistic ecotoxicological effects. The results raise concerns about the potential health risks of daily exposure to microplastics through oral hygiene products, as well as the broader environmental implications, such as bioaccumulation in aquatic systems. The study calls for stricter regulation of microplastics in consumer products and further investigation into biodegradable alternatives.

Environmental Awareness and the Use of Disposable Plastic

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Disposable plastic pollution has become one of the biggest environmental issues. It is evident that single-use plastic products are cheap, versatile, lightweight, resistant, easily available everywhere, which has made them very popular among people around the globe.

However, in many countries, single-use plastic shopping bags are the main source of rubbish, causing pollution impacting the environment and biodiversity. Although a lot of people understand harmful effects of plastic pollution, most people still keep using single-use plastic products. Due to these problems, our study aims to 1) understand the relationship between awareness about plastic pollution and the use of disposable plastic products, 2) explore students’ behaviors, knowledge, and awareness in reducing global warming caused by the overuse of plastic products, 3) observe the students’ attitude toward the impacts of disposable plastic pollution, and 4) raise participants’ awareness about environmental issues among a group of Thai high school students. Data were collected using a questionnaire asking about participants’ global warming knowledge, behaviors, and opinions about plastic usage. Survey samples, including Triamudomsuksanomklao students, were randomly selected through a random sampling method with a total of 307 students (100 males, 182 females, and 25 others). The majority of participants understood how harmful plastic pollution is to the environment. Our results revealed that participants’ knowledge and awareness were at high levels. Nevertheless, statistical analyses showed that there is a significant correlation between the level of awareness about plastic pollution and behavioral change, i.e. trying to avoid and reduce the use of one-time plastic bags or stop using plastic straws.