On World Environment Day, which focuses on the theme “End Plastic Pollution”, the Institute of Ecology and Wetland Conservation expressed serious concern about the impact of air pollution on human health.
Recent findings have shown the presence of microplastics in brain immune cells, which can trigger neuroinflammation and autoimmune disorders.
“The condition of microplastic contamination in the air is one of the main sources of microplastic entry into the human body,” said Alaika Rahmatullah, Education and Campaign Coordinator.
She explained that continuous exposure to microplastics, especially through inhalation, is very concerning. Research indicates that humans inhale about 0.1-5 grams of microplastics per week.
The study “Bioaccumulation of microplastics in decedent human brains” in Mexico in 2025 found an accumulation of polyethylene—a common type of plastic in bottled water—in human brains.
“The presence of polyethylene in the brain should
