What are microplastics, and how do they impact the environment?

Microplastics are tiny plastic particles measuring less than 5 millimeters in size. They can originate from the breakdown of larger plastic items or be intentionally manufactured for certain products like cosmetics or clothing. Microplastics pose significant risks to aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems as they can be ingested by organisms, leading to physical harm, bioaccumulation, and the transfer of toxic chemicals up the food chain.