Key Takeaways

• Microplastics are tiny plastic particles found in air, water, soil, and food.
• They end up in animals and people, and may affect health.
• States and cities are banning glitter, adding filters, and using warning labels to cut microplastics.
• Local rules could spark larger national policies to tackle this problem.

What Are Microplastics and Why They Matter

Microplastics are plastic bits smaller than five millimeters. They start as small products like glitter, or break off from larger items like tires and clothing. As they move through air and water, wildlife and people ingest them. Researchers have found microplastics in organs, blood, and even the brain. Though scientists still study their full health effects, early studies link microplastics to inflammation, liver troubles, and possible fertility issues. Therefore, reducing microplastics is becoming a top priority for many communities.

How Microplastics Limits Begin in States

Since global rules have stalled, states and cities are taking charge. They use bans, filters, labels, and testing to keep microplastics out of our environment. Here are four key strategies they follow.

Banning Added Microplastics from Glitter and Turf

First, some plastics are made tiny on purpose. Glitter in makeup and confetti at events fall into this group. When people wash off glitter or sweep up confetti, particles escape into drains and soil. In addition, artificial turf contains plastic pellets for cushioning. As athletes play, these pellets scatter everywhere. To stop these releases, California proposed banning plastic glitter in cosmetics. Likewise, a few cities have banned plastic confetti. In Europe, nonbiodegradable glitter and turf infill are now illegal. Looking ahead, Rhode Island aims to ban all intentionally added microplastics by 2029. This broad rule would cover glitter, confetti, and turf bits alike.

Cutting Fibers and Tire Particles

Most microplastics begin as larger pieces that break down over time. Synthetic clothes shed tiny fibers when you wash them. Studies show these fibers make up about one-third of ocean microplastics. Likewise, rubber from tires wears off roads and mingles with rainwater. It then drifts into rivers and seas. To trap fibers, France will require microfiber filters in all new washing machines by 2029. Several U.S. states are eyeing similar laws. Although California passed a filter bill in 2023, the governor vetoed it over cost worries. Even so, data shows filters could cut laundry microplastics by nearly 80 percent. On the tire front, California’s toxic substances office now lists a key tire chemical as a priority. This rule pushes makers to redesign tires or phase out harmful additives.

Improving Waste Rules to Block Microplastics

Disposal rules can also curb microplastics. Many wipes carry plastic fibers but still flush down toilets. These wipes clog pipes and send microplastics into water systems. In response, New York, California, and Michigan now require “no-flush” labels on wipe packages. At construction sites, sawdust and plastic dust can wash into storm drains. New Jersey shore towns now make builders vacuum tools and clean sites daily. This keeps particles out of waterways. Meanwhile, Oregon and Colorado hold packagers responsible for recycling. And California forces foam product makers to boost recycling rates over time. These rules catch microplastics before they pollute our lakes and oceans.

Statewide Plans to Track and Cut Microplastics

Some states go further by mapping the problem. California’s microplastics strategy, launched in 2022, sets rules to test swimming and drinking water. It also lays out steps to cut plastics from textiles, tires, and other sources. Importantly, the plan treats microplastics as a “chemical of concern.” That means manufacturers must test and report risks, shifting the burden off consumers. Other states, like Virginia and Illinois, are debating bills to monitor microplastics in drinking water. Minnesota may study microplastics in meat and poultry, guiding future safety steps. By tracking pollution, these plans help target the worst sources and measure progress over time.

From Local Rules to Federal Action

State wins often lead to national change. In 2015, local bans on plastic microbeads paved the way for the federal Microbead-Free Waters Act. Today, lawmakers in Washington are eyeing similar paths. In June 2025, the House passed a bill modeled on state wipe labels. A new Microplastic Safety Act would have the FDA study health impacts, especially on kids. And proposals to require microfiber filters now circle in Congress. If these succeed, they could make microplastics controls uniform across the country.

Small Steps with Big Impact

Microplastics pose a big challenge because they come from many sources and resist cleanup. However, local and state efforts show solid progress. Bans on glitter, filters on machines, strict waste rules, and statewide tests all cut microplastics in clear ways. As these small steps add up, they build a strong case for wider laws. Ultimately, keeping microplastics out of our air, water, and food will protect both wildlife and human health.

Frequently Asked Questions

What exactly are microplastics?

Microplastics are tiny bits of plastic smaller than five millimeters. They can be made small on purpose or come from larger items that break down.

How do microfiber filters help reduce microplastics?

Filters catch most synthetic fibers that come off clothes during laundry. This stops up to 80 percent of those fibers from entering water systems.

Why do states act on microplastics before the federal government?

States can often pass laws faster and tailor them to local needs. Their success can push Congress to adopt similar rules nationwide.

What everyday steps can I take to avoid microplastics?

You can use natural fiber clothes, avoid products with glitter, and choose no-flush wipes. Also, support local reuse and recycling programs.