Scientists of the German Alfred Wegener Institute during Arctic expeditions in 2014-2015 found in the snow near the North pole to the abnormally high content of plastic particles. They conducted a study to find out its origins, which led them first to the mountains of Bavaria, then the Swiss Alps and finally, into the dead corners of the French Pyrenees. Everywhere they found traces of it – a new kind of precipitation particles in the micro-plastic.
We are not talking about plastic waste, per se, but about micro particles. They are so tiny that are easily carried by the wind, mixed with dust, fall into clouds and eventually fall out with rain, snow or freezes into ice, becoming with him almost a single entity. Such microparticles are many — it is and polymers in household appliances, and synthetic rubber, and different types of coatings, etc.
Scientists are unable to accurately trace the paths of moving particles, but make a fair conclusion that they can be released to the atmosphere in any part of the planet. Then it all depends on winds and currents, so it is logical that the “plastic snow” falls in the mountains, which are in the path. And that’s what’s important – the concentration of micro-plastic in the Arctic was 14 400 particles per liter of air, and in Bavaria already 154 000 particles per liter. The closer to civilization, the higher the air pollution of this material.
Of the concrete effects of snowfall mixed with plastic anything is still unknown. However, it is clear that in this form the plastic waste may be transferred anywhere and in the end, along with the water will be and in plants and animals. Most scientists are now concerned how the micro-plastic can inadvertently inhale people and how it will affect his health? Studies are just beginning.
Source — Alfred Wegener Institute