Scientists defend microplastics research against industry criticism as scientific debate continues

Leading environmental health scientists are pushing back against recent doubts raised about microplastics detection in human bodies, arguing that ongoing scientific debate is normal and necessary for advancing research in this critical field.

Four prominent researchers, including Prof Philip J Landrigan and Prof Jennifer Kirwan, responded to reports questioning the validity of studies that found microplastics throughout the human body. They emphasized that the scientific community has been engaged in “constructive debate” around microplastic detection methods for some time, calling such scrutiny “entirely normal and essential for scientific inquiry.”

The scientists stressed that developing reliable detection methods for microscopic plastic particles is an iterative process requiring continuous refinement. “New and novel methods must be tried, tested, critiqued, improved and tried again,” they explained, noting that science progresses incrementally and gradually through this rigorous peer-review process.

While acknowledging the ongoing methodological discussions, the researchers firmly defended the broader body of evidence showing plastic pollution’s environmental and health impacts. They pointed out the stark contrast between the careful, gradual pace of scientific validation and “the uncapped production and pollution of plastics,” which contain thousands of hazardous chemicals. The scientists cited “decades of robust evidence” demonstrating the harmful effects these materials have on both human health and planetary ecosystems, suggesting that debates over specific detection methods should not overshadow the well-established dangers of plastic pollution.