What environmental concern led to banning microbeads in cosmetics?

• A. They are a natural nutrient source that improves water quality.
• B. They are tiny plastic particles used in exfoliants and banned due to pollution of waterways and ingestion by wildlife.
• C. They replace microplastics in water treatment.
• D. They enhance aquatic life by providing habitat.

Answer: (B)

The main idea here is that microbeads in cosmetics are a source of microplastic pollution. These tiny plastic particles are used in exfoliants and, when washed down the drain, they often pass through ordinary wastewater treatment and end up in rivers, lakes, and oceans. They persist in the environment and are ingested by aquatic life, which can harm animals and ecosystems. That combination of pollution and harm to wildlife is what led to bans. The other statements don’t fit because plastics aren’t natural nutrients, they don’t improve water quality, they don’t replace microplastics in treatment, and they don’t enhance aquatic life.