Microscopic view of microplastics in a water sample. / © Adobe Stock
When plastic debris is thrown into a body of water, it will start to degrade, both mechanically and photochemically. These processes cause the plastic to be broken down into smaller and smaller pieces. When the pieces measure less than 5 millimeters in size, they are called microplastics.
Microplastics are found in rivers, lakes, oceans, and even drinking water sources. They can enter well water through various pathways, including surface runoff, groundwater flow, and atmospheric deposition; such as dust. The impact of microplastics on well water is still being researched, and the health risks associated with them are not yet fully understood. Research is ongoing to understand the extent and implications of microplastic contamination in well water. It is important to stay informed as the information becomes available.
What are the effects of microplastics in well water?
At this point, there are no known adverse health effects attributed to microplastics in your well water. However, microplastics are a growing environmental concern due to their widespread presence and potential impact. As research continues, more guidance will become available.
When should I test for microplastics in my well water?
Since microplastics are an emerging contaminant, there is not enough information yet to set a maximum contaminant level. If you are concerned about microplastics in your well water, there is a specific test that can be performed to determine if they are present. It is a costly process, however, and should be conducted through a certified laboratory.
To ensure you are protecting your family’s health, we have developed a set of testing recommendations for other contaminants that are provided in our article, "What do I need to know about sampling my well water?".
What treatment should I use if there are microplastics in my well water?
There are filter treatment options available for microplastics. The most important advice we can provide you is if you are going to add treatment to your home water system, be sure the treatment device has been certified to remove microplastics by an independent third-party certification organization.
Where can I get local help and information about microplastics in my well water?
Contact your local health department – They can help you interpret your sample results and may have information on the best treatment options for your situation. If they personally aren’t able to answer your questions, they will know who to contact who will be able to help you, likely at your state health department.
Contact a water treatment professional – We would recommend contacting a water treatment professional who has been certified through the Water Quality Association’s Professional Certification Program.
State or Federal Geologic or Water Resource Agency – They may have completed field studies of your area or collected samples from water wells to map and understand the water quality in your state. In addition, they may house water well logs (including yours), or be able to provide additional information about the aquifer your well is getting water from.
Consult your well driller or drilling contractor – The contractor that drilled your well, or other local contractors, may be aware of the water quality issues nearby, including microplastics, and might have worked with other well owners in your area to solve this issue.
Research online – You should be inquisitive; it will help you significantly because there may be great information available online. Use search terms like “my state (CA, ME, IL, etc.) water well logs”, “my state groundwater quality”, or “my state well water quality”.
Contact us directly – If these local sources don’t work out for you, we may be able to help. We may be able to provide direct assistance, and/or direct you to a technical assistance provider in your area who can help answer your questions (This is a free service funded by US EPA).
Additional Resources:
Microplastics in drinking water. World Health Organization.
Microplastics Research. US Environmental Protection Agency.
Home Water Treatment. Minnesota Department of Health.
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