We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Microplastic and Microfibre Pollution in Greenland Surface Ice: A Preliminary Study
AI summary Read the abstract
This research investigated the use of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastic waste as feedstock for 3D printing filaments, evaluating print quality, mechanical properties, and dimensional accuracy of HDPE-printed objects. The study demonstrates a viable pathway for valorizing HDPE waste into functional 3D printing materials.
Microplastics (MPs) and microfibres (MFs) are widespread contaminants that are found in natural environments worldwide. Although their presence has been documented in Arctic snow, sea ice and marine systems, data on their occurrence in Greenland glacier surface ice remain limited. Because of their small size, persistence, and mobility, MPs and MFs pose significant risks to both habitats and species, reaching even the most remote areas. Monitoring these environments is crucial for assessing the extent of pollution, while dissemination activities are essential for transferring scientific knowledge to local communities and fostering active engagement in adopting sustainable behaviours. A preliminary survey was conducted on a glacier in Greenland, collecting samples along the routes travelled by the Extreme E staff during the electric off-road racing series expedition in the region. Preliminary results confirmed the presence of MPs and MFs in the study area with high abundances. Fibrous and small-sized microparticles were the most prevalent types detected. The most common synthetic material was polyethylene terephthalate (PET), while natural and regenerated MFs were predominantly cellulosic. A deeper understanding of MP and MF contamination in extreme environments was achieved, highlighting the importance of environmental education and public awareness as key tools in mitigating pollution and promoting sustainable strategies. The integration of different sectors can synergistically promote sustainability efforts and address the urgent challenges of climate change and environmental pollution.
More Papers Like This
Microplastic and microfibre pollution in Greenland: a preliminary study
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers conducted preliminary investigations of microplastic and microfibre pollution in Greenland glaciers by collecting samples along a track traversed during the Extreme E electric off-road racing series, pretreating samples with H2O2 and analysing particles with UV and standard microscopy. The study provided early data on microplastic contamination in one of the world's most remote environments.
Microplastic and microfibre pollution in Greenland: a preliminary study
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers conducted preliminary investigations of microplastic and microfiber pollution in Greenland glaciers, collecting samples along a route used by the Extreme E electric racing series and characterizing particles using microscopy with and without UV light following hydrogen peroxide pretreatment. The study provides early baseline data on micropollutant contamination in a remote Arctic environment, where atmospheric transport is the primary delivery mechanism.
Preliminary investigations on microplastic and microfiber pollution in NW Italian Alps glaciers
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers conducted preliminary investigations of microplastic and microfiber pollution at four glaciers in the NW Italian Alps, finding that atmospheric transport delivers these micropollutants even to remote high-altitude environments far from urban sources.
Microplastics in the Arctic: A case study with sub-surface water and fish samples off Northeast Greenland
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers investigated microplastic contamination in sub-surface water and two mid-trophic level fish species off Northeast Greenland, finding synthetic particles in both water samples and fish stomachs. The study demonstrates that even remote Arctic ecosystems are not free from microplastic pollution, with fibers being the most commonly detected particle type.
First evidence of microplastic contamination in the supraglacial debris of an alpine glacier
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers documented the first evidence of microplastic contamination on an alpine glacier, finding concentrations in the supraglacial debris of Italy's Forni Glacier comparable to levels seen in European beaches and coastal sediments. The particles included polyester, polypropylene, and polyethylene from outdoor clothing and packaging. The discovery shows that microplastic pollution has reached even remote high-mountain environments.
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.