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Table 5 Open-ended answers selected to illustrate responses to “In your opinion, is there a particular microplastics source which has the most impact on the natural environment and human health? “

From: Exploring expert perceptions about microplastics: from sources to potential solutions

Microplastics sources and their potential impact

Tyres

“[…] due to its high discharge volume and composition. and it's hard to reduce compared to cosmetics.”

(Non-binary, Early Career, US)

“[…] based on the recent study on fish toxicity from chemicals present in tyre wear particles.”

(Female, Early Career, US)

Fibrous microplastics/ Synthetic microfibres

“[…] especially for humans. They are very abundant and have higher toxicity in comparison to regularly shaped particles. Human exposure through breathing might be relevant.” (Female, Early Career, Germany)

Consumer/ Everyday plastic products

“[…] Concerning human health, consumer products—e.g. plastic bottles—may be a problem, that is not really focussed, because of lobbying by the big food-companies.” (Male, Established Career, Austria)“[…] plastic packaging and cosmetics and other detergents have the largest impact because (I think) they are the most common sources for microplastics. They enter the environment by improper disposal or directly from our waste water. […]” (Female, Early Career, Germany)

Microplastics from industry, (de)construction and agriculture

“inhaling [microplastics] produced by abrasion […]” (Female, Early Career, Sweden)“for the environment, all the things that are used in big areas (e.g. agriculture) have a significant impact. […](Male, Established Career, Austria)

Biodegradable plastics

“difficult to say based on current evidence, I believe biodegradable plastics may be more of a risk given their in vitro toxicity and assumption of being biodegradable / less impactful, which can lead to overuse and potential unforeseen impacts. […]” (Female, Early Career, US)