Microplastics found in clouds could affect global climate and temperatures

Recent research suggests that these microplastics can impact cloud formation and, consequently, the climate. A team of scientists from Shandong University in China collected water samples from clouds at the top of Mount Tai, discovering microplastics in 24 of the 28 samples. These included polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene, polyethylene and polystyrene – common particles found in synthetic fibers, clothing, textiles, packaging and face masks.

In an article published in Environmental Science and Technology Letters, the researchers stated: “This discovery provides significant evidence for the abundant presence of microplastics in clouds.”

Previously, a study carried out in Japan this year detected microplastics on Mount Fuji and Mount Oyama, suggesting that these particles may originate from ocean plastics and are transported through the air. The concentration of microplastics in Mount Tai's cloud water was up to 70 times higher than in Japanese mountain clouds.

Cloud formation has a significant impact not only on local weather patterns but also on global temperatures. Clouds affect climate in many ways, from producing precipitation and snow to blocking sunlight to cooling the planet's surface and providing shade to the ground. However, they can also retain heat and moisture, subsequently warming the air.

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European Union bans glitter and other products to reduce microplastics

The European Commission will adopt measures to restrict the sale of products to which microplastics have been intentionally added, such as detergents, cosmetics and toys. The ban is based on legislation that controls chemical substances in the EU and seeks to prevent the release of approximately half a million tons of these synthetic particles into the environment.