Dear NRDC Supporter,

Microplastics are tiny chemical-laden plastic particles that might be too small to see — but don't let that fool you. They’re everywhere, including in human hearts, brains, and placentas, and emerging research links them to serious health risks like heart attack, stroke, and cancer.

That's why NRDC launched Microplastics Are Micromonsters, a national public awareness campaign to help families understand the risks and take action to reduce their exposure.

Here are four science-backed steps you can take right now to combat microplastics:

CHALLENGE #1: DON’T MICROWAVE PLASTIC

Heating food in plastic releases harmful chemicals and microplastic particles directly into your meal. Instead, transfer food into glass or ceramic before microwaving. It takes an extra 30 seconds and meaningfully reduces your exposure.

CHALLENGE #2: RETHINK YOUR PLASTIC KITCHENWARE

Many common plastic kitchen items (like spatulas, cutting boards, and blenders) introduce microplastics into food every time you use them. Identify the one or two items you reach for most and commit to replacing just those with a wood, ceramic, glass, or metal alternative. Then keep it in mind as kitchenware wears out and needs replacing in the future.

CHALLENGE #3: CHECK YOUR PERSONAL CARE PRODUCTS

Pick up your most-used lotions, cosmetics, face wash, toothpaste, or other personal care products and scan the ingredient list for added microplastics. Look for polyethylene, polypropylene, polyurethane, acrylates, polymers, and microbeads. If you find them, consider swapping those products out for alternatives that don't contain intentionally added microplastics.

CHALLENGE #4: SWITCH TO REUSABLE GLASS OR METAL BOTTLES

Research has found that people who drink bottled water instead of tap water ingest substantially more microplastics every year. The fix is straightforward: Swap plastic bottles for a reusable glass or metal bottle and drink tap water when you can.

CHALLENGE #5
Personal swaps matter — but lasting change requires holding plastic producers accountable. Here's what makes this fight bigger than your kitchen: 99% of all plastics are made from fossil fuels.

As the world moves toward renewable energy, the fossil fuel industry is counting on a dramatic increase in plastic production to maintain its profit margins. Plastic is their "Plan B" — and the industry is on track to triple production by 2060. They need us hooked on plastic because plastic keeps us hooked on fossil fuels.

Right now, there are no laws regulating microplastics in our food or water. The FDA has the power to change that — but we need your help to mobilize massive, nationwide public pressure on them to act.

Stand up to the fossil fuel industry — add your voice to help protect us from the dangers of microplastics.

Thank you for showing up for your health, your family, and the fight against microplastics.

Sincerely,
NRDC

P.S. Want to learn more? Visit NRDC's Microplastics Are Micromonsters campaign for the latest science, tips, and ways to fight back.