Cox’s study is one of the first to try to estimate their presence in humans. “If you tell people more facts surrounding microplastics in the ocean, they don’t seem perturbed by it,” he said.

Cox’s study is one of the first to try to estimate their presence in humans. “If you tell people more facts surrounding microplastics in the ocean, they don’t seem perturbed by it,” he said.

VANCOUVER — Marine scientist Kieran Cox calls it “probably the most pervasive, unregulated pollutant in Canada and globally.” It’s not plastic, petrochemicals or another chemical toxin.

University of Victoria biologist Kieran Cox, whose paper was published Wednesday, says what his study shows most clearly is how little is known about the extent or impact of microplastics in people.