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Microplastics: 77% more found in River Thames during lockdown may be due to discarded face masks and PPE – research shows
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Researchers sampling the River Thames over two years found a 77% increase in microplastic levels during the COVID-19 lockdown period, likely linked to the disposal of single-use face masks and personal protective equipment. The findings illustrate how health crises can generate unanticipated surges in microplastic pollution, highlighting the environmental trade-offs of disposable medical and hygiene products.
Researchers took samples of the River Thames for two years to track levels of microplastics.
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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.