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"Microplastics found in rural woodland at higher levels than in city centers"
#Microplastics #Plastic #Plastics

Microplastics found in rural woodland at higher levels than in city centers
Air-polluting microplastics have been found in rural environments in greater quantities than in urban locations, researchers say. Scientists led by the University of Leeds detected up to 500 microscopic particles of plastic per square meter per day in an area of woodland during the three-month study—almost twice as much as in a sample collected in a city center. The findings are published in the journal Environmental Pollution.

"Surprising number of foods contain microplastics. Here’s how to reduce the amount you consume"
#Plastic #Plastics #Microplastics

Surprising number of foods contain microplastics. Here’s how to reduce the amount you consume
Microwaving food in glass containers is a good idea to prevent microplastics leaching into your food.

"Oceans struggle to absorb Earth's carbon dioxide as microplastics invade their waters"
#Oceans #Microplastics #Plastic

Oceans struggle to absorb Earth's carbon dioxide as microplastics invade their waters
A new study reveals that microplastics are impairing the oceans' ability to absorb carbon dioxide, a process scientists find crucial for regulating Earth's temperature.

"Fish-inspired filter removes 99% of microplastics from washing machine wastewater"
#Microplastics #Plastic #Plastics

Fish-inspired filter removes 99% of microplastics from washing machine wastewater
Wastewater from washing machines is considered a major source of microplastics—tiny plastic particles that are suspected of harming human and animal health. Researchers at the University of Bonn have now developed a filter to curb this problem. Their invention was inspired by the gill arch system in fish.

"Another threat to reefs: Microplastic chemicals may harm coral reproduction"
#CoralReef #Microplastics #Plastic

Another threat to reefs: Microplastic chemicals may harm coral reproduction
As the sliver of a new moon shines over Kāneʻohe Bay, Oʻahu, millions of tiny orbs ascend from a reef and swirl in the water column. These spheres are bundles of coral eggs and sperm responding to lunar cycles and chemical cues in the water that tell them when to fertilize and where to settle […]

"Crickets munch on microplastics—especially if they have a big mouth"
#Crickets #Animals #Plastic #Microplastics

Crickets munch on microplastics—especially if they have a big mouth
To a human, microplastics are very small at less than 5 millimeters (mm) wide. But to an insect, microplastics might be the same size as the food they usually eat. Researchers reporting in the journal Environmental Science & Technology have shown that crickets can and will consume polyethylene microplastics if their mouth is larger than the plastic particle. The study suggests that crickets—and likely many other insects—cannot distinguish plastic from food.

"Tiny Fiddler crabs are hoovering up and breaking down microplastics, study finds"
#Crabs #Plastic #Plastics #Microplastics

Fiddler crabs are hoovering up and breaking down microplastics - study
Despite being the size of a Post-It note, these tiny fiddler crabs can ingest and break down microplastic particles, researchers say.