Scientists have for the first time found microplastics --- tiny particles that can be ingested --- in freshly fallen Antarctic snow.
Scientists have for the first time found microplastics — tiny particles that can be ingested — in freshly fallen Antarctic snow.
The discovery, from researchers at the University of Canterbury in New Zealand, joins a small collection of recent research on this type of plastic, which can be so small it’s invisible to the naked eye and is derived both from the breakdown of larger plastic pieces or is produced this small intentionally, to create grit in toothpaste and sunscreens, for instance.
The group identified 13 different types of plastics and the most common was polyethylene terephthalate , a common type of plastic used in making drink bottles, food packaging and fabrics. PET was found in 79% of the samples. “Looking back now, I’m not at all surprised,” team member and associate professor Laura Revell said of their initial belief that the pole was too remote to contain plastic. “From the studies published in the last few years we’ve learned that everywhere we look for airborne microplastics, we find them.”
Much of the world isn’t likely to wean itself from the hygienic and convenient features of plastic without a dramatic rethink of consumption. Plastic production, which has played a role in everything from administering medical care to keeping food fresh longer, is slated to quadruple by 2050.
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