Sacred springs of South Africa—pure waters or polluted? We found tiny bits of plastic in the samples we tested
Across South Africa, natural springs are more than sources of freshwater. Some are places of healing, spiritual cleansing and rituals, where communities collect water and maintain longstanding cultural connections with the environment. For example, during cleansing rituals, people bathe in or collect spring water as a way of seeking spiritual renewal, healing and protection. These are known as…
Across South Africa, natural springs hold significance as sources of freshwater, centers for healing and spiritual rituals, and places where communities maintain deep cultural connections with the environment. However, emerging pollution known as microplastics has been detected in nine such sacred springs in the Eastern Cape and KwaZulu-Natal provinces.
These springs, recognized for their cultural and spiritual importance, were found to contain microplastic particles, ranging from 5 to 48 particles per liter. There is no universally accepted safe level of microplastics in freshwater or drinking water, making these concentrations difficult to classify as safe or unsafe. The research highlights the presence of microplastics in even pristine-looking springs, which could harm aquatic life, diminish spiritual value, and expose those who interact with the water.
The issue of microplastic pollution in these sacred springs stems from plastic waste entering the environment through various means, such as rain, air, and human activities near the water sources. Despite efforts by local communities to keep the springs clean, particularly around carbon dioxide springs where plastic pollution appears less prevalent, the detection of microplastics underscores the urgent need for comprehensive water-quality monitoring of these culturally significant sites.
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