Has anyone calculated how much of this microplastic waste can be removed from our water through filtration? If our industrial, commercial and residential run-off is an 80% contributor, has anyone calculated how much waste could be removed from our effluent through filtration and treatment? We have the technology to remove microscopic sized debris from water, why is it not being implemented on a larger scale? These seem like simple questions, but I imagine the answers won't be nearly as simple.

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Has anyone calculated how much of this microplastic waste can be removed from our water through filtration? If our industrial, commercial and residential run-off is an 80% contributor, has anyone calculated how much waste could be removed from our effluent through filtration and treatment? We have the technology to remove microscopic sized debris from water, why is it not being implemented on a larger scale?

These seem like simple questions, but I imagine the answers won't be nearly as simple. 

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That is a great question Tony, but one that is creating a lot of interest. There is so much conflicting statements on the damage, if any plastics have on our health. The World Health Organization (WHO) in its first report on the issue, found that larger particles, and most smaller ones, pass through the body without being absorbed. But it said the findings were based on limited information" as it called for greater research on the issue. 

Here is the link to the story Microplastics in water pose ‘no apparent health risk’ - BBC News.

P.S Thank you for the comment.

Nigel Roberts

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