We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Temporal and Spatial Variations in Microplastic Concentrations in Small Headwater Basins in the Southern Blue Ridge Mountains, North Carolina, USA
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers examined spatial and temporal variations in microplastic concentrations and characteristics within two headwater basins in the Southern Blue Ridge Mountains of North Carolina over approximately one year, also collecting atmospheric samples to assess the contribution of atmospheric deposition, finding MP concentrations in the upper quartile of globally reported values with maximums reaching 65.1 MPs/L and approximately 90% of MPs linked to atmospheric sources.
Microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitous contaminants of emerging concern that require additional study in freshwater streams. We examined the spatial-temporal variations in MP concentrations and characteristics within two headwater basins in the Southern Appalachian Mountains of western North Carolina over ~1 year. Atmospheric samples were also collected to determine the significance of atmospheric MP deposition to these relatively small streams. MP concentrations in both basins were within the upper quartile of those reported globally, reaching maximum values of 65.1 MPs/L. Approximately 90% of MPs were fibers. MP composition was dominated by polystyrene, polyamides, and polyethylene terephthalate. Spatially, concentrations were highly variable and increased with development, indicating anthropogenic inputs from urbanized areas. MP concentrations were also elevated in forested tributary subbasins with limited anthropogenic activity, suggesting atmospheric deposition was an important MPs source. Significant atmospheric inputs are supported by high atmospheric depositional rates (ranging between 7.6 and 449.8 MPs/m2/day across our study sites) and similarities in morphology, color, and composition between atmospheric and water samples. Temporally, MP concentrations during storm events increased, decreased, or remained the same in comparison to base flows, depending on the site. The observed spatial and temporal variations in concentrations appear to be related to the complex interplay between precipitation and runoff intensities, channel transport characteristics, and MP source locations and contributions.
More Papers Like This
Temporal and Spatial Variations in Microplastic Concentrations in Small Headwater Basins in the Southern Blue Ridge Mountains, North Carolina, USA
AI summary Read the abstract
Microplastic concentrations in two Southern Appalachian headwater basins reached up to 65.1 MPs/L — in the upper quartile globally — with approximately 90% being fibers and concentrations increasing with land development intensity over a year of sampling.
Investigating the atmospheric deposition of microplastics in south central appalachia in the united states
AI summary Read the abstract
This study measured microplastics falling from the atmosphere in the south-central Appalachian region of the United States, adding to evidence that atmospheric deposition is a widespread route by which microplastics reach remote and rural environments far from obvious pollution sources. The findings suggest that even people in relatively undeveloped areas are being exposed to airborne microplastics.
Investigating the atmospheric deposition of microplastics in south central appalachia in the united states
AI summary Read the abstract
This study measured microplastics falling from the atmosphere in the south-central Appalachian region of the United States, adding to evidence that atmospheric deposition is a widespread route by which microplastics reach remote and rural environments far from obvious pollution sources. The findings suggest that even people in relatively undeveloped areas are being exposed to airborne microplastics.
Quantification and Categorization of Macroplastics (Plastic Debris) within a Headwaters Basin in Western North Carolina, USA: Implications to the Potential Impacts of Plastic Pollution on Biota
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers quantified and categorized plastic debris along Richland Creek, a heavily forested watershed in western North Carolina. They collected over 1,700 pieces of plastic, predominantly films and hard plastics, with foam and film items showing the highest fragmentation rates. A laboratory component confirmed that collected items readily break down into microplastics, demonstrating how macroplastic litter in even rural waterways serves as a continuous source of microplastic pollution.
Atmospheric transport and deposition of microplastics in a remote mountain catchment
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers documented atmospheric deposition of microplastic fragments, films, and fibers in a remote, pristine mountain catchment in the French Pyrenees, with particles traveling up to 95 km through the air. This landmark study confirmed that microplastics reach even the most isolated terrestrial environments through wind transport, meaning no ecosystem on Earth is truly free from plastic contamination.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.