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Small plastics with large warming potential

Nature Climate Change 2026

Summary

Tiny bits of plastic, too small to see, are floating in our air all over the world, and new research shows they can trap heat from the sun, potentially adding to climate change. Since these same airborne plastics are also things we breathe in every day, this study is a reminder that plastic pollution isn't just a health concern for our bodies, but may also be quietly reshaping the planet's climate.

Microplastics and nanoplastics are moving in the atmosphere worldwide. Now, research shows that they can interact with sunlight and influence the climate system.

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