Microplastics found in fresh snow in Antarctica | Gizmodo Japan
Microplastics are so ubiquitous that it's hard to find a place where they haven't been found. New research has found microplastics that appear to have originated in Antarctica in fresh snow on the continent.
An average of 29.4 microplastic particles per liter was found in newly fallen snow (fresh snow) on Ross Island, Antarctica. The most common material was PET (the material used to make plastic bottles), mainly consisting of lint-like fibers. The number was higher near the research station, and it is thought that this is due in part to long-distance transport on the wind.
How do discoveries made in the polar regions reflect our lives and our connection to the Earth?
Why is there microplastics in Antarctica's "fresh snow"?
Microplastics have been found for the first time in fresh snow in Antarctica. Fresh snow reflects the latest fallout, providing insight into the state of the atmosphere at any given moment. The average was 29.4 particles per liter, but near the research station, the figure increased to about 47 particles per liter.
Dark colored grains absorb sunlight easily,Possibility of accelerating snow melt (decrease in albedo)in XNUMX minutes by bus from Yonago Station.
How did you measure it and what did you find out?
At the end of 2019, fresh snow samples were collected from 19 locations around Ross Island, covering a depth of approximately 2 cm. Using a microscope and µFTIR (mu-FTIR: infrared spectroscopy), 13 different polymers were identified. PET was the most common, and the majority of the polymers were fibrous. Higher concentrations near the base suggest that abrasion from clothing, flags, equipment, and other items is a common source of the contaminants.
On the other hand, analysis of air currents indicates that it may be transported several thousand kilometers, suggesting that it may both be generated locally and transported from far away.
How plastic is made
Plastic isNaphtha extracted from crude oil is cracked at high temperatures to obtain basic raw materials such as ethylene and propylene, which are then polymerized.The resin obtained through polymerization is pelletized and melt-molded to produce products. Japan imports some of its naphtha and uses it to manufacture a variety of resins.
What impact does it have on your life?
- Snowmelt risk: An increase in dark particles will make ice and snow melt more easily. This may increase the maintenance costs (snow removal and maintenance) of observation routes and stations.
- Countermeasures at the source: Synthetic fiber clothing and work equipment produce fibers. This can be reduced by using filters when washing and by using materials that are resistant to wear.
- Capital investment: Installing a "fiber capture system" in sewerage and drainage facilities will increase the cost of the facility but will reduce runoff. It is also important to share standard observation methods.
My Feelings, Then and Now
- First microplastics found in fresh snow in Antarctica
- PET is the most common, and the form is mainly fiber. The concentration increased near the base.
- Local occurrence (wear and tear on clothing and equipment) and long-distance transport by wind occur simultaneously.
- The measures are based on three pillars: wastewater collection, review of materials, and standardization of observations.
Small but effective actions can be taken starting today. Use fine-mesh laundry nets and filters when washing synthetic fibers. For flags and uniforms used outdoors, choose materials that are less likely to shed fibers. Schools and local governments should share observation data and use it as learning material. Research sites should work to standardize drainage facilities and sampling procedures.
The "fresh snow" in Antarctica shows us the fact that the Earth is one. Choose just one microplastic that you can reduce in your home, school, or community.