ALLATRA Hosts Public Event on Micro- and Nanoplastics in Manhattan, New York City

Latest research reveals growing risks to human health and climate.

New York, NY – ALLATRA International Public Movement, in partnership with Civic Hall, hosted a public presentation on December 9 addressing the escalating global crisis of micro- and nanoplastics in the biosphere. The event brought together local residents, health professionals, students, and other concerned members of the community for an in-depth exploration of how these invisible particles are threatening human health and climate.

The event’s presentation drew from the recently released documentary by ALLATRA Global Research Center, “Nanoplastics. A Threat to Life,” which examines the pervasive spread of nanoplastic pollution and its consequences for ecosystems and human health. The event highlighted how micro- and nanoplastics have infiltrated every corner of the planet and are now present in human bodies at alarming concentrations.

To illustrate the scale of the plastic pollution, ALLATRA speaker Viktor Kuklin displayed an image of a truck filled with plastic waste and asked the audience, “How often do you think we send a truckload like this into the ocean?” After a brief pause, he answered, “Every minute of every day.” The statement left many attendees visibly stunned.

Health Impacts of Micro- and Nanoplastics

ALLATRA speaker Oli Kotik presented a compelling experiment demonstrating a unique property of plastics: their ability to accumulate and retain electrostatic charge. She explained how this property enables nanoplastics to evade the body's immune defenses, penetrate deep into cellular structures, disrupt communication between neurons, cause oxidative stress in cells, and impair mitochondrial function.

Another ALLATRA speaker, Evelina Cherif, presented striking data on global cognitive trends. She noted that scientists observed steady increases in IQ throughout much of the 20th century,  a phenomenon known as the Flynn Effect, until this trend reversed in the 1970s. This decline, referred to as the Reverse Flynn Effect, closely correlates with the rapid rise in global plastic production.

Audience Engagement and Community Dialogue

The depth and clarity of the scientific presentations resonated strongly with those in attendance. Volodymyr Matichyn, an entrepreneur, reflected after the event:

“My goal was to learn more about nanoplastics, an issue that is becoming increasingly visible, and that expectation was met. The presentation was delivered in a highly professional manner, and the visuals and detailed explanations helped me connect with the information. It made clear that our only real chance to address this issue is to work together.”

The event fostered meaningful dialogue and community engagement. During the Q&A session, attendees not only posed thoughtful questions to the speakers but also actively discussed ways to help disseminate this critical information to broader audiences.

Beyond the educational component, the networking session created space for attendees to connect with like-minded individuals, exchange ideas, and explore collaborative approaches to addressing the nanoplastics crisis. The combination of rigorous scientific content and community-building reflected Civic Hall’s mission to foster civic innovation and meaningful public dialogue.

Call for Collective Action

Concluding the presentation, ALLATRA speaker Steven Kasten emphasized the essential role of public engagement in addressing the nanoplastics crisis.

“Every voice matters in spreading this information,” Kasten said. “When scientists uncovered the dangers of lead and asbestos, it was public support that created the momentum needed for regulatory change. Today, scientists’ voices alone are not enough to elevate nanoplastics to the level of urgency they demand - we need the public's support.”

That message resonated with attendees. Tomi Hundley di Grazioli, founder of Take Care Ma and an environmental activist, shared:

“After the event, I felt empowered. I came here to help make a difference, and this experience connected me with people, ideas, and movements that are doing exactly that. I don’t feel alone - I feel able to reach out and contribute to real change.”

Resources for Continued Learning

Attendees were encouraged to explore ALLATRA’s documentary “Nanoplastics. A Threat to Life” and the comprehensive scientific report “Nanoplastics in the Biosphere: From Molecular Impact to Planetary Crisis,” both available at allatra.org.

ALLATRA extends sincere gratitude to Civic Hall for providing the venue and partnering as co-host for this event. Their dedication to supporting critical conversations on environmental and public health issues exemplifies their commitment to civic engagement and community well-being.

About Civic Hall

Civic Hall is a state-of-the-art institution anchoring Union Square in New York. It was founded with a simple idea: to connect us for life's richest opportunities in growth, collaboration, and celebration.

Today, Civic Hall is driven by purpose – unlocking the power of possible in a forum as diverse as the city that it centers. From serving as the home to educational programs and startup companies, to hosting art shows and wedding receptions, no ambition is too bold.

About the ALLATRA International Public Movement

The ALLATRA International Public Movement is an independent, volunteer-based organization dedicated to conducting large-scale research in geodynamics and environmental issues. ALLATRA IPM is recognized for its interdisciplinary approach to studying natural disasters, promoting international scientific cooperation, and advancing human rights and fundamental freedoms.

In recognition of its commitment to environmental protection and the preservation of creation, the ALLATRA International Public Movement was granted an Apostolic Blessing by His Holiness Pope Francis in 2024. In 2025, His Holiness Pope Leo XIV likewise bestowed an Apostolic Blessing upon the President of ALLATRA and all its volunteers.

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