This page was created by benjamin marshall.
Slow Violence and Microplastics
Slow Violence is defined by Rob Nixon as a type of violence that occurs cumulatively (and often hidden) over a long period of time in disadvantaged communities. This fits the profile of Microplastic pollution well, as they are near-undetectable and have toxic health effects that build up over extended exposure. Infrastructural violence is also present in Microplastic pollution, as poor quality wastewater treatment plants can lead to Microplastic pollution in those areas.
Through the examination of scientific studies, investigative magazine articles, United Nations press releases, and Rob Nixon's Slow Violence and the Environmentalism of the Poor, I analyze how microplastics infiltrate the purity of water and lead to pollution and health issues, particularly among disadvantaged communities. This will help readers better understand the dangers and ubiquity of microplastic pollution, and the impacts of slow violence in both contemporary America and in certain UN-identified locations.