Microplastics in drinking-water

Studies reporting the presence of microplastics in treated tap and bottled water have raised questions and concerns about the impact that microplastics in drinking-water might have on human health.

This report of the World Health Organization (WHO) critically examines the evidence related to the occurrence of microplastics in the water cycle (including both tap and bottled drinking-water and its sources), the potential health impacts from microplastic exposure and the removal of microplastics during wastewater and drinking-water treatment.

The authors conclude that there is currently no evidence that microplastics in drinking water are harmful to human health. However, they point to the uncertain evidence base, particularly regarding microplastics, which are smaller than 150 micrometers.