UPSC CSE Prelims
Marine Pollution Previous Year Questions (PYQs)

Detailed Explanation:

Answer: Option 1 — They are considered harmful to marine ecosystems.

Microbeads are tiny plastic particles (typically less than 5mm) used in cosmetics and personal care products that are released into water bodies through drainage systems. Marine animals like fish, shellfish, and plankton easily ingest these microbeads due to their small size, which can block their digestive systems leading to starvation or death. Additionally, microbeads absorb pollutants and toxins from water, concentrating them in the food chain and potentially harming larger predators, including humans.

📝 Short Notes: Microbeads and Marine Pollution

• Definition: Microbeads are solid plastic particles measuring less than 5mm in diameter, primarily made of polyethylene or polypropylene.
• Sources: Commonly found in facial scrubs, toothpastes, body washes, and other exfoliating personal care products.
• Environmental Pathway: They pass through wastewater treatment plants (too small to be filtered) and enter rivers, lakes, and oceans.
• Marine Impact: Mistaken for food by marine organisms, causing bioaccumulation in the food chain and physical harm to aquatic life.
• Toxic Absorption: Microbeads act as sponges for persistent organic pollutants (POPs) and heavy metals present in water.
• Global Action: Many countries including USA, UK, Canada, and India have banned or restricted the use of microbeads in cosmetics.
• India's Stand: India banned the manufacture of cosmetics containing microbeads in 2020 to protect marine ecosystems.