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Microplastics in total atmospheric fallout: from lockdown to business-as-usual
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Scientists measured how much tiny plastic dust falls from the air before and during COVID lockdowns, when there was much less traffic and factory activity. Surprisingly, the amount of microplastics falling from the sky didn't drop much, suggesting these particles can travel long distances and linger in the air rather than coming only from nearby daily activities. This matters because it means we're likely breathing in these tiny plastic particles regularly no matter where we live, making it harder to simply reduce our exposure by cutting local pollution sources alone.
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This study examined how COVID-19 lockdowns affected microplastic deposition from the atmosphere in an urban area. Reduced human activity during lockdown was associated with decreased atmospheric microplastic concentrations. The findings confirm that local sources — particularly vehicle traffic, industrial activity, and human movement — are significant contributors to urban airborne microplastics.
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