What are the big companies doing about it?
Companies who use these plastic beads in their products have largely vowed to start phasing them out.
Boots announced they have already stopped formulating new products with the plastic ingredient; Unilever, Johnson & Johnson and Marks & Spencer have target dates for their complete removal; Superdrug and numerous other companies have also stated they are in the process of eradicating the beads from their ranges.
What can you do?
While the commercial brands start work on reducing the hazardous pollutant from their products, consumers can also be doing their bit to aid the campaign, including:
- Checking ingredients lists and avoid buying any plastic-containing products. If you currently have products containing the beads, pass the substance through a fine cloth or nylon tights, and dispose of the plastic with your household rubbish. This is by no means ideal, but will at least prevent them from being washed away into open water.
- Buy natural products, or even make your own. Effective exfoliating agents can be made from sugar, crushed walnut shells and ground beans; many recipes can be found online and created from the contents of the kitchen cupboard and fridge.
- Spread awareness that this issue exists using word of mouth and social media. The hazards of this toxic waste need to be highlighted and kept at the forefront in order to preserve our environment and health, and as our duty to future generations.
