The discovery of microplastics in rainwater in Jakarta marks a new phase of environmental pollution that poses a potential threat to human health. Research by the National Research and Innovation Agency (BRIN) revealed that these microscopic plastic particles originate from synthetic fibers in clothing, vehicle dust, and residues from burning plastic waste. The airborne microplastics are carried by the wind and fall back to the earth with rain.
“The threat of microplastics to human health is severe. In animal studies, these particles have been detected in several organs and are believed to cause reproductive disorders,” said Dr. Annisa Utami Rauf, a lecturer at the Department of Environmental Health, Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing, Universitas Gadjah Mada (FK-KMK UGM), on Friday (Oct. 24).
According to Dr. Rauf, the risk of microplastic exposure is higher in densely populated urban areas. Heavy reliance on single-use plastics significantly contributes to the accumulation of plastic particles in the air and the environment. Increasing public awareness to reduce plastic consumption is essential to mitigate its impact.
“The risk is indeed high in major cities like Jakarta and Yogyakarta. However, we can already see initiatives to replace plastic with environmentally friendly materials in several places, and such efforts should continue to be encouraged,” she explained.
Numerous global studies have detected microplastics in human blood and organs, including the digestive system. These findings strengthen the assumption that plastic particles can enter and persist in the body for extended periods.
Nevertheless, Dr. Rauf emphasized that scientific evidence on the specific health impacts is still being developed.
“Some studies do show accumulation in the human body, but the exact effects remain unclear as research is still ongoing,” she stated.
She added that the body’s varied responses to microplastic exposure make this field of research increasingly complex. Each individual may differ in their ability to release or retain microplastic particles within the body. Therefore, preventive measures are the most logical step to take at this stage.
“We don’t yet know the exact effects, but preventive efforts should certainly be implemented as early as possible,” said Dr. Rauf.
The primary sources of microplastic exposure in daily life are plastic-based food and beverage packaging. Single-use bottled water, hot food containers, and plastic linings in food products can all serve as transmission media for microplastics into the human body.
According to Dr. Rauf, the convenience-oriented lifestyle in cities often leads people to overlook these dangers.
“The highest exposure typically comes from plastic-packaged food and drinks. This habit needs to be gradually changed,” the expert noted.
From a public health perspective, the primary challenge in controlling microplastic exposure is low public awareness, as well as unsustainable consumption habits. Simple actions such as carrying a tumbler, reducing the use of plastic bags, and opting for non-plastic containers can serve as starting points for change.
“We can start with small steps, like bringing our own water bottles or avoiding plastic bags when shopping. These small actions can make a big difference in reducing microplastic accumulation in the environment,” Dr. Rauf said.
She also emphasized the importance of industrial responsibility in managing plastic waste. Major producers play a strategic role in developing return systems and recycling programs. In addition, the government needs to strengthen waste reduction policies from upstream to downstream.
“Producers that generate plastic waste should have a ‘take back trash’ program. The government and industries must work together to ensure waste does not end up in landfills,” she asserted.
She further emphasized that the concepts of reducing and reusing remain the most effective strategies for minimizing microplastic accumulation in the environment. Several countries have implemented practical measures, such as offering incentives for people who return used products or recycle plastic waste.
Dr. Rauf suggested that such approaches could be adapted in Indonesia according to its social and cultural context.
“Waste reduction programs can be carried out through collaboration between industries and communities. The key is to reduce waste right at its source,” the expert said.
The presence of microplastics now detected in the atmosphere, including in rainwater and clouds, indicates that the plastic cycle has infiltrated every layer of the environment.
A study in Japan found microplastic particles in clouds, suggesting that this pollution has become a global issue.
“Microplastics have spread across various environmental media, including air and clouds. If we don’t stop the sources, the impact will only expand further,” said Dr. Rauf.
In conclusion, the FK-KMK UGM scholar emphasized the importance of fostering collective awareness among individuals and policymakers. Local governments can take concrete steps by limiting the sale of bottled drinking water in schools or public facilities. Early education is also crucial to fostering environmentally conscious behavior.
“Awareness must start from ourselves and our surroundings. If children are taught early to bring their own water bottles, we can expect future generations to be more sensitive to plastic issues,” she concluded.
Author: Triya Andriyani
Post-editor: Rajendra Arya
Illustration: Freepik