The resolution urges the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to establish drinking water standards for microplastics and nanoplastics, which are tiny plastic particles that pose potential health risks. Microplastics are defined as particles less than five millimeters in length, while nanoplastics are even smaller, measuring less than one micrometer. These particles originate from various sources, including the degradation of larger plastics and intentionally designed products like microbeads in cosmetics. They have been detected in surface waters globally and can easily pass through water filtration systems, leading to their presence in bottled water and potentially in food products. Studies indicate that humans may ingest significant amounts of plastic weekly, raising concerns about their health effects, which may include oxidative stress, inflammation, and other serious conditions.

Despite the growing evidence of the dangers posed by microplastics and nanoplastics, the EPA has not yet set specific drinking water standards for these contaminants, even after establishing standards for certain perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) in 2024. The resolution highlights the need for updated regulations, as a 2019 petition signed by numerous environmental organizations called for action to address plastic pollution under the Clean Water Act. The lack of regulatory measures has allowed the plastics industry to operate under outdated standards, failing to mitigate the increasing prevalence of microplastics and nanoplastics in the environment and human bodies.