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Are Microplastics in Our Tap Water a Real Concern?
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles, measuring less than five millimeters in size. They come from the breakdown of larger plastic items like bottles, bags, and packaging. Over time, these materials break down due to exposure to sunlight, wind, and water. Microplastics have been found in lakes, rivers, and even tap water, including Lake Michigan. This raises a critical question: Are microplastics in our drinking water a real danger?
For many business owners and office managers in Chicago, employee health is a top priority. When it comes to the quality of your office’s drinking water, the presence of microplastics should never be a concern. Yet, this issue is becoming more common, which is why it's important to consider whether a bottleless water cooler or reverse osmosis system might be the right choice for your workplace.
But first, let's understand why microplastics in tap water are such a big deal.
Where Do Microplastics in Lake Michigan Come From?
Microplastics in Lake Michigan come from multiple sources. One major contributor is urban runoff, which carries plastic debris from Chicago and surrounding areas into local water systems. These plastics often originate from discarded items like bags, bottles, and packaging that break down over time due to natural elements.
Another source is wastewater treatment plants, which sometimes fail to remove all microplastics from household and industrial waste before releasing treated water back into the lake. This can include microbeads from cosmetics and synthetic fibers from clothing.
Recreational activities near the lake, such as boating and fishing, also contribute to microplastic pollution. Despite regulations, accidental loss or intentional dumping continues to add to the problem.
Once in the lake, microplastics can take hundreds to thousands of years to fully degrade. Their small size and buoyancy allow them to spread easily through water currents and even by wind, making the issue far-reaching and long-lasting.
Can We Test for Microplastics in Tap Water?
The presence of microplastics in tap water has become a growing concern. But can we actually test for them? The answer is yes. Scientists have developed methods to detect microplastics in water samples. These tests typically involve filtering the water to capture microplastics and then examining them under a microscope.
However, these tests require specialized equipment and training, and they are not something an individual or business can do on their own. If you're concerned about microplastics in your workplace's water supply, consider reaching out to an environmental testing laboratory. They can perform professional microplastic analysis and give you peace of mind.
The Health Hazards of Microplastics in Tap Water
The health effects of consuming microplastics through tap water are increasingly being studied, especially for businesses that rely solely on tap water for drinking. There are several reasons why ingesting microplastics could pose a risk to human health.
Because of their tiny size, microplastics can enter the body more easily than larger particles. Once ingested, they can accumulate in the digestive tract, potentially introducing harmful substances like phthalates and PCBs—chemicals commonly found in plastics. Over time, these toxins can leach into the body, possibly disrupting hormone function and increasing the risk of chronic diseases.
Additionally, microplastics can act as carriers for harmful bacteria and other pathogens. When ingested, these microorganisms can cause infections and illnesses. For businesses where tap water is the main source of drinking water, this poses a serious health risk that should not be ignored.
How Reverse Osmosis Filtration Can Effectively Remove Microplastics
Reverse osmosis (RO) filtration is one of the most effective solutions for removing microplastics from drinking water. Unlike standard filters, RO systems are designed to tackle a wide range of contaminants, including microscopic particles like microplastics.
An RO system works by pushing water under pressure through a semi-permeable membrane with pores as small as 0.0001 microns—smaller than most microplastics. While water molecules pass through, microplastics and other impurities are trapped and removed.
One of the key benefits of an RO system is its multi-stage filtration process. Before reaching the RO membrane, water goes through pre-filters that remove larger particles, chlorine, and sediments. This not only improves the performance of the RO stage but also extends the life of the membrane.
Post-filtration stages often include activated carbon filters, which enhance the taste and odor of the water, ensuring it's both clean and pleasant to drink.
For businesses in Chicago, installing a reverse osmosis system can be a smart and long-term solution for ensuring safe, clean drinking water for employees.
Ending the Threat of Drinking Microplastics in Tap Water!
The threat of microplastics in drinking water is a serious issue that Chicago business owners and office managers can't afford to ignore. Installing an effective filtration system, such as a reverse osmosis unit, is a reliable way to keep harmful particles out and protect the health of your team.
At Office H2O, we offer advanced reverse osmosis systems that provide a long-term solution for businesses seeking cleaner, safer, and healthier drinking water. If you want to create a healthier, microplastic-free work environment, sign up for a free 7-day trial today. Your employees' health is worth it—make the switch now!