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According to new research by Penn State scientists, published in the journal Environmental Science and Technology: Air- the presence of microplastic particles could alter these processes.
Clouds in the atmosphere can be made up of liquid water droplets, ice particles, or a mixture of the two. In clouds in the mid-to-upper atmosphere where temperatures are between 32 and minus 36 F (0 to minus 38 C), ice crystals normally form around mineral dust particles from dry soils or biological particles, such as pollen or bacteria.
Microplastics, the tiny pieces of plastic smaller than 5 millimetres have been spotted in nearly every nook and cranny of our planet, ranging from the Mariana Trench to Mount Everest. They are found in human brains as well as the bellies of fishes deep in the ocean.
Source |
Description |
Contribution to Microplastics |
|
Tires |
Abrasion from driving releases microplastics, making it the largest source. |
Accounts for about 28% of the total |
|
Personal Care Products |
Microbeads used as exfoliants in cleansers and toothpastes are intentional microplastics. |
Significant source of microplastics in water |
|
Degradation of Larger Plastics |
Larger items like bags, bottles, and fishing nets break down into microplastics through fragmentation. |
Accounts for 69–81% of ocean microplastics |
|
Other Sources |
Includes synthetic textiles, road markings, marine coatings, city dust, and plastic pellets. |
Various minor contributions |
|
Agricultural Soil |
Wind erosion and farming activities spread microplastics into the air. |
Contributes to airborne microplastics |
|
Compost |
Microplastics in compost can be transported to agricultural lands when applied. |
Potential contamination of arable lands |
Recent studies have shown that microplastics can be transported through the atmosphere, reaching remote areas like the Arctic and even the Himalayas. They can be carried by wind, rain, and snow, eventually settling on land or water bodies.
Impacts |
Measures |
|
Microplastics ingested by marine organisms can cause health issues and disrupt the food chain. |
Reduce single-use plastics by opting for reusable alternatives. |
|
Presence of microplastics in soil affects soil quality and hinders plant growth. |
Implement effective waste management practices, including recycling and proper disposal. |
|
Potential health risks from inhaling or ingesting microplastics. |
Develop technologies to filter microplastics from water and wastewater. |
|
Ongoing research needed to understand the full impact on human health. |
Collaborating with global partners to tackle plastic pollution as a shared challenge. |
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PRACTICE QUESTION Q.Microplastics are increasingly being detected in clouds, raising concerns about their impact on the environment and human health. Discuss the sources of microplastics, their transport through the atmosphere, and the potential long-term effects on ecosystems and climate patterns. (250 words) |
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