By Lexie Kellner

To begin, glitter is found just about everywhere such as clothing, art, cosmetics, and more. After the University of Sao Paulo conducted research, they discovered that glitter also occupies the ocean. Over 8 million tons of glitter have been estimated to be distributed throughout the oceans. They then began observing the delayed growth of aquatic organisms. This led them to undertake proving the relationship between glitter particles obstructing biogeochemical cycles and marine animals. The researchers are trying to find a way to decrease the amount of glitter in the sea, so it stops polluting the oceans. 

Furthermore, glitter is made up of various kinds of microplastics coated in aluminum to create a reflective surface. Glitter is unable to be filtered out by systems due to its lack in size. Therefore, the glitter ends up in oceans or other bodies of water. Glitter is not decomposable due to its composition of microbeads. When aquatic animals make contact with glitter it endangers that animal due to its sharp sides and toxic material. If the concentrations of glitter continue to increase it can influence water contamination negatively. Not only does this affect organisms but also cyanobacteria. This bacteria is also known as algae which is needed by the majority of marine animals. It’s food for organisms and is needed for the water and soil cycles. After a vast amount of research was conducted, it was shown that algae grows significantly less when in contact with glitter. It stunts growth and can negatively affect the health of the algae. 

Overall, glitter has critically impacted the health and well-being of algae and marine animals. Glitter pollution needs to be stopped so microplastics don’t continue infecting the sea. The research has shown lasting effects on many organisms which can continue to increase. Our oceans should be protected from harm, but they continue to deliver destruction. Human activity shouldn’t continuously impact our ecosystems negatively.