Managing microplastics

The world produces around 430 million metric tons (t) of plastic a year , according to the United Nations. That’s the weight of almost 1,300 Empire State Buildings. Without a binding treaty to limit plastic production, the number is on track to more than double . In that same period, mismanaged plastic waste is expected to double , reaching over 120 million t. Images of plastic bottles washed up on beaches and six-pack rings choking marine animals have become symbols of plastic pollution. In this issue, C&EN takes a deep dive into the less visible, insidious side of our plastics problem: microplastics. As the name implies, microplastics are tiny particles—specifically designated as less than 5 mm in size. Some are purposefully made small for use in products like cosmetics, where they can serve as exfoliants. Most result from the disintegration of larger plastic items. Microplastic is a relatively new term