Glitter, a seemingly innocuous festive adornment, poses a significant environmental threat. Its widespread use in cosmetics, clothing, and crafts often overshadows its concerning composition and lasting impact on natural ecosystems. Despite its appeal, glitter contributes to a growing global problem of pollution.
The Microplastic Problem
Glitter is typically manufactured from plastic sheets, most commonly polyethylene terephthalate (PET) or polyvinyl chloride (PVC), coated with aluminum for sparkle. Some types may also include a third layer of styrene acrylate. Because of its small size, generally less than 5 millimeters, glitter is classified as a microplastic. Unlike larger plastic items that break down over time, glitter is intentionally produced at this minute size. Microplastics are persistent pollutants; they do not readily biodegrade in natural environments, remaining intact for potentially hundreds or even thousands of years.
Pathways into Ecosystems
Glitter enters natural environments through various common activities. When used in cosmetics, it is often washed down drains, making its way into wastewater systems. Similarly, glitter from clothing, decorative items, and craft projects can shed and be washed away or carried by wind. Even after passing through wastewater treatment plants, a significant amount of microplastics, including glitter, can escape filtration and reach rivers, lakes, and oceans. Runoff from landfills further contributes to this environmental dispersion. Its small size and lightweight nature allow it to bypass conventional waste management systems, spreading widely across aquatic and terrestrial landscapes.
Ecological Harm
Once in the environment, glitter presents several forms of ecological harm. Marine and terrestrial animals can mistake these shiny particles for food, leading to ingestion. Ingested microplastics can cause physical blockages in digestive tracts, create a false sense of satiation, and potentially lead to malnutrition or starvation. Microplastics can transfer up the food chain, impacting larger animals and potentially humans who consume contaminated seafood. They can also transfer toxic chemicals and pathogens absorbed from the environment into animal tissues, potentially causing reproductive, neurological, and immune issues.
Glitter also contributes to broader plastic pollution in aquatic and terrestrial environments. It can reduce the amount of sunlight penetrating water bodies, which may impair photosynthesis in aquatic plants. Conventional plastic glitter can negatively impact soil health by reducing the reproduction rates of soil organisms. Its presence can also interfere with natural biomineralization processes in marine environments, affecting the formation of structures like coral reefs.
Sustainable Alternatives
As awareness of glitter’s environmental impact grows, alternatives have emerged. “Eco-friendly” or biodegradable glitter is often made from plant-based materials, such as cellulose derived from eucalyptus trees or cornstarch. These materials are designed to break down naturally, offering a more sustainable option than traditional plastic glitter. Some biodegradable glitters are certified to degrade in freshwater environments within weeks. However, consumers should be discerning, as not all products labeled “biodegradable” break down effectively in natural settings; some “compostable” types may require industrial composting facilities.