Researchers from the Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar) in Brazil have uncovered the surprising environmental impact of glitter and sequins, typically seen as harmless decorations. A recent study has revealed that these tiny shiny adornments, classified as microplastics, are accumulating in the environment and may be disrupting the photosynthesis of aquatic plants.
The study focused on Egeria densa, a vital aquatic plant that provides essential functions in freshwater ecosystems. When exposed to just 0.04 grams per liter of ordinary sequins, the photosynthetic rate of the waterweed decreased by 1.54 times compared to the control group. The glitter obstructed the amount of light reaching the plant, thereby affecting its ability to respire efficiently.
Not only do sequins pose a physical pollution threat, but they also contain metals like aluminum, bismuth, iron, and titanium that can hinder aquatic plants’ access to sunlight. This research prompts a re-evaluation of our use of sequins and calls for the exploration of more sustainable alternatives.
Published in New Zealand Botany, this study sheds light on the unsuspected consequences of seemingly innocuous items in our daily lives. It serves as a reminder to consider the environmental impact of our choices, even in the realm of aesthetic adornments. As we appreciate the beauty of sequins, we must also be wary of their potential harm to the environment.
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Reference papers:
Interference of glitter with the photosynthetic rates of a submerged macrophyte, Egeria densa (New Zealand Journal of Botany)