A groundbreaking project has identified particles from vehicle tyre wear as the largest contributor to nanoplastic pollution in the high Alps. This initiative, involving expert mountaineers and scientists, gathered contamination-free samples to assess the widespread issue of nanoplastics, which can be transported by winds globally. Given their smaller size, nanoplastics pose health risks by potentially penetrating cell membranes. Researchers are now looking to conduct the first global assessment of nanoplastic pollution, seeking to establish a baseline for monitoring future trends. The mapping may also assist in identifying sources and reducing pollution effectively.
Mountaineers are collecting contamination-free samples of nanoplastics, revealing that vehicle tyre wear is the biggest source of nanoplastic pollution in the high Alps.
Nanoplastics, even tinier than microplastics, potentially pose greater health risks by penetrating cell membranes and lodging in human bodies.
The Global Atmospheric Plastics Survey aims to conduct the first global assessment of nanoplastic pollution, establishing baseline data for future comparisons.
Dr Dusan Materic expressed eagerness to explore nanoplastic pollution globally, highlighting the need for effective pollution reduction strategies.
Collection
[
|
...
]