Microplastics that pollute oceans are finding their way into the air, with new evidence suggesting the tiny particles can travel vast distances with the help of wind and weather systems. Studies have revealed microplastics can be carried by wind, becoming part of the air pollution, and have been detected in dry, remote areas hundreds of kilometres from the nearest source of contamination. This shows that the problem of ocean plastic pollution is no longer confined to our rivers and seas, and attention needs to be paid to the outdoor air.
We may not be able to see it, but microplastics are raining down from the sky all over the world. A recent study has found that microplastics are present in rain samples taken from multiple locations on earth, raising concern about the infiltration of plastic into the air, water and soil. These plastic particles spread through the atmosphere by wind and thermal movement and cause further environmental damage. We need to limit plastic pollution in all forms to take back control of our environment.
