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Microplastics in the himalayan glaciers: a looming environmental threat
Summary
This review summarized evidence for microplastic contamination in Himalayan glaciers and discussed the implications for the freshwater resources these glaciers supply to millions of people. Microplastic accumulation in glacial ice represents a time-delayed release of pollution into downstream water systems as glaciers melt.
The Himalayan glaciers, a vital source of freshwater and a sensitive ecosystem, are facing an unprecedented threat from microplastic pollution. Microplastics, defined as plastic particles smaller than 5 mm, have been detected in Himalayan glaciers, raising concerns about the potential impacts on the environment, human health, and aquatic life. To date there is little information available regarding the presence of airborne microplastics in Himalayan Glacier. We collected freshly fallen snow samples from the western and central Himalayan Glacier in pre monsoon season 2023 and analyzed them to quantify the presence and abundance of microplastics. Samples were collected close to two scientific research stations (Chorabari and Lahaul & Spiti) and from 13 field sites up to 20 km from the research stations. We identified polymer composition using Laser Infrared Imaging Spectrometer (µ- LDIR) and analyzed air mass back trajectories to identify the potential origins of sampled air masses. Further, we catalogued the composition of field equipment to understand local polymer sources. This study aimed to investigate the occurrence, distribution, and accumulation of MPs in the Himalayan glaciers, focusing on the western and central Himalayan Glaciers. The results revealed the presence of various MPs, including polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene, in both glaciers. The distribution and accumulation of MPs were influenced by hydrological factors, such as glacier melting and runoff, and anthropogenic activities, such as tourism and trekking. This research contributes to the growing body of evidence on MPs pollution in remote and high-altitude ecosystems, providing valuable insights for policymakers, environmental managers, and researchers. The findings of this study have important implications for understanding the regional distribution and impacts of microplastic pollution and for developing effective strategies to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainable development. Also see: https://micro2024.sciencesconf.org/563469/document