UNAIR NEWS The Sustainable Community Service Institute (LPMB) 51动漫 () successfully held an educational discussion titled Invisible Threat of Microplastics on Friday (Nov. 28, 2025) at the Bima Suci Hall of the Airlangga Convention Center (ACC), MERR-C Campus. The event featured three speakers: Dr. Lestari Sudaryanti, dr., MKes; environmental advocate Prigi Arisandi; and researcher Afifah Rahmi Andini.
Head of LPMB UNAIR Prof. Hery Purnobasuki, MSi, PhD, opened the session by emphasizing the importance of educating the public about the dangers microplastics pose to human health. He noted that microplastics, tiny particles invisible to the naked eye, have become an urgent environmental concern.
淚n the past, the issue with plastic was its long degradation period. After new methods were developed to break plastic down, another problem emerged. The resulting micro-sized fragments persist and disperse everywhere, he said.
Health risks of microplastics
Prof. Purnobasuki also expressed concern about microplastics potentially evaporating with water and returning to the environment through rainfall. This process, he warned, increases the likelihood of microplastics entering the human body and triggering health complications.
淲hen microplastics are ingested, they can enter the bloodstream. It is entirely possible for them to reach an embryo, he explained.
He encouraged individuals to curb microplastic production by reducing heavy reliance on plastic-based products. Prof. Purnobasuki recommended limiting the use of single-use plastic packaging in daily life.
淓very day, we interact with plastic directly or indirectly. At the very least, when consuming food or beverages, it is advisable to use reusable items such as cups, tumblers, or lunch boxes. These small, personal steps, when practiced consistently, can help reduce plastic waste, he said.
Once individuals develop these environmentally friendly habits, Prof. Purnobasuki added, they can encourage those around them to do the same. 淓ven the smallest contribution makes a difference. Significant change is built from countless small actions, he noted.
UNAIR檚 commitment
Prof. Purnobasuki reaffirmed that LPMB UNAIR is committed to supporting efforts that aim to reduce environmental pollution, particularly those affecting human health. He highlighted the institution檚 dedication to conducting research and carrying out community programs that offer solutions to environmental challenges.
淲e hope every initiative we launch, whether community service programs or seminars, can create lasting, meaningful impact. Through events like this one, we want the public to gain the knowledge needed to understand the issue of microplastics, he concluded.
Author: Selly Imeldha
Editor: Khefti Al Mawalia
