The many harmful effects of microplastics have only recently begun to be studied in depth. Yet initial results show that these toxic particles are having a greater impact on humans than previously thought. One reason for this is 'bioaccumulation'. Humans have been using plastics in great quantities for over 50 years. Because it takes time for plastics to break down, and because we are using them more and more in daily life, the harmful effects are just now beginning to reveal themselves.