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Environmental and health risk assessment of PM 2.5 and microplastics in Morales
Summary
Researchers assessed PM2.5 concentrations and the potential co-occurrence of microplastics in atmospheric particulate matter in the Morales district of San Martin province, Peru during 2022. The study identified multiple local emission sources including rice mills, brick kilns, and agricultural burning, and evaluated health and environmental risks associated with PM2.5 and microplastic exposure in the absence of prior local monitoring data.
The research analyzed the impact of fine particulate matter (PM2.5) on atmospheric quality in the district of Morales, San Martin province, during the year 2022. PM2.5, with an aerodynamic diameter of less than 2.5 μm, was identified as one of the most dangerous pollutants worldwide, associated with millions of premature deaths and chronic respiratory diseases, lung cancer and other disorders. It was highlighted that its concentrations were determined by emissions, meteorological conditions and physicochemical transformations. In Morales, possible sources included rice milling plants, brick kilns, vulcanizing plants, service stations and agricultural activities. In addition, the possible presence of microplastics in the composition of PM2.5 was considered, which represented an additional risk to health and the environment. The research was justified on theoretical, social, economic and environmental criteria, underlining the need for monitoring and control. The lack of previous studies in Peru on the joint presence of PM2.5 and microplastics, as well as the limited real-time measurement infrastructure, motivated the study. The study sought to compare local concentrations with international references and national regulations, evaluating their significance in the deterioration of air quality. It was concluded that PM2.5 air pollution in Morales could have relevant impacts on public health and environmental quality, and that the identification of sources and characteristics of these particles was essential to develop effective mitigation and protection strategies for the population and the ecosystem.