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Are Microplastics in Our Tap Water a Real Concern?
Microplastics are tiny plastic particles, typically less than five millimeters in size. They come from the breakdown of larger plastic items like bottles, bags, and food packaging due to exposure to sunlight, wind, and water. These microplastics have been detected in various water sources, including Lake Michigan, raising concerns about their presence in tap water.
For Chicago business owners and office managers, ensuring the health and safety of employees is a top priority. This includes the quality of drinking water available in the workplace. While many may not think about microplastics in their tap water, it's a growing concern. At Office H2O, we often hear questions about whether a bottleless water cooler or reverse osmosis system might be necessary. But first, let's explore why microplastics in tap water are such an important issue.
Where do microplastics in Lake Michigan come from? A major source is urban runoff, which carries plastic debris from Chicago and surrounding areas into local water systems. Discarded plastic items, like bags and bottles, break down over time into smaller fragments. Additionally, wastewater treatment plants can release microplastics into the environment, as they often fail to capture all microplastic particles before discharging treated water into lakes. Microbeads from cosmetics and synthetic fibers from clothing also contribute to this pollution. Recreational activities near the lake can add to the problem through accidental or intentional dumping of plastic waste.
Once in the water, microplastics can persist for hundreds or even thousands of years, causing long-term environmental damage. Their small size allows them to travel easily via wind and currents, spreading the contamination far and wide.
Can we test for microplastics in tap water? Yes, scientists use specialized methods to detect these particles. Water samples are filtered to capture microplastics, which are then examined under a microscope. However, these tests require professional equipment and expertise, making them unsuitable for individual or business use. If you're concerned about microplastic contamination in your office water supply, consider contacting a certified environmental testing laboratory for analysis.
The health risks of consuming microplastics through tap water are becoming more concerning, especially for businesses relying solely on tap water. Due to their small size, microplastics can enter the body more easily and accumulate in the digestive system. They may carry toxic substances like phthalates and PCBs, which can disrupt hormone function and increase the risk of chronic diseases. Moreover, microplastics can attract harmful bacteria, posing additional health risks.
For businesses in Chicago that rely on tap water, taking steps to ensure clean, safe drinking water is essential. One effective solution is a reverse osmosis (RO) filtration system. Unlike basic filters, RO systems are designed to remove a wide range of contaminants, including microplastics.
An RO system works by pushing water under pressure through a semi-permeable membrane with pores as small as 0.0001 microns. This ensures that microplastics and other impurities are trapped, while clean water passes through. The process usually includes pre-filters that remove larger particles, chlorine, and sediments, improving the overall effectiveness of the system. Post-filtration stages, like activated carbon filters, further enhance the taste and smell of the water.
For Chicago businesses, installing a reverse osmosis system is a practical and long-term solution to ensure safe, clean drinking water for employees. It helps eliminate the risk of microplastics and other harmful contaminants.
At Office H2O, we offer advanced reverse osmosis filtration systems tailored for businesses looking for healthier, safer drinking water. If you want to create a cleaner, microplastic-free work environment, sign up for a free 7-day trial. Your employees’ health and well-being deserve the best—make the switch today!