Microplastics

Microplastics are tiny fragments of plastic less than five millimetres long.

微塑料是长度不足5毫米的微小塑料碎片。

They come from larger items that gradually break down in the environment.

它们来自在环境中逐渐分解的较大物品。

Synthetic clothing also releases countless fibres every time it is washed.

合成纤维衣物每次洗涤时也会释放出无数纤维。

Scientists have detected these particles in oceans, rainwater, and even remote mountains.

科学家已经在海洋、雨水甚至偏远的山区中检测到了这些颗粒。

More worryingly, they have been found in human blood and lungs.

更令人担忧的是，人们在人体的血液和肺部也发现了它们。

The long-term consequences for our health are still poorly understood.

它们对我们健康的长期影响目前仍知之甚少。

Filtering them out of drinking water is technically possible but costly.

从饮用水中过滤掉它们在技术上是可行的，但成本高昂。

Many experts argue that reducing plastic production is the only lasting solution.

许多专家认为，减少塑料生产是唯一持久的解决办法。

Meanwhile, consumers can help by choosing natural fabrics and reusable containers.

与此同时，消费者可以通过选择天然面料和可重复使用的容器来出一份力。