Microplastics detected in clouds hanging atop two Japanese mountains

Microplastics Detected in Clouds Above Japanese Mountains

New research has revealed the presence of microplastics in clouds surrounding Japan’s Mount Fuji and Mount Oyama. This discovery highlights the ability of pollution to spread over long distances, leading to contamination of crops and water through “plastic rainfall”. The study’s lead author, Hiroshi Okochi, warns that if the issue of plastic air pollution is not addressed proactively, it may result in irreversible and serious environmental damage in the future.

Introduction

Microplastics, tiny plastic particles smaller than five millimeters, have been found in various locations such as the oceans, Antarctic ice, and now in clouds above Japanese mountains. The pollution is caused by the release of these particles during the degradation of larger plastic pieces or intentional addition in certain products. Tires and plastic beads used in personal care products are among the main sources of microplastics. The accumulation of microplastics in the environment poses risks to both human and animal health.

Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)

1. SDG 14: Life Below Water – Microplastics, estimated to be around 10 million tons annually, end up in the oceans, posing a threat to marine life and ecosystems.
2. SDG 3: Good Health and Well-being – Microplastics have been detected in various human organs and have been linked to health issues such as behavioral changes, cancer, and irritable bowel syndrome.
3. SDG 13: Climate Action – The presence of microplastics in clouds can contribute to climate change through the release of greenhouse gases when exposed to ultraviolet light in the upper atmosphere.

Research Findings

Researchers from Waseda University collected samples at altitudes ranging between 1,300-3,776 meters and identified nine types of polymers and one type of rubber in the cloud samples. The concentration of microplastics in the cloud’s mist ranged from 6.7 to 13.9 pieces per liter. The presence of “water-loving” plastic bits suggests that microplastics play a role in rapid cloud formation, which may have implications for the overall climate.

The degradation of microplastics in the upper atmosphere can lead to the release of greenhouse gases. High concentrations of microplastics in clouds in sensitive polar regions could disrupt the ecological balance.

Implications and Recommendations

The presence of microplastics in clouds highlights their ability to travel long distances through the air and environment. Previous research has found microplastics in rain, suggesting that seaspray and aerosols released during wave crashes or ocean bubbles bursting may be a significant source of airborne plastics. Dust from car emissions on roads is another potential source.

To address the issue of plastic air pollution and mitigate its impact on the environment and human health, the following measures are recommended:

• Reducing the use of single-use plastics and promoting sustainable alternatives
• Improving waste management systems to prevent plastic pollution
• Implementing regulations and policies to limit the release of microplastics into the environment
• Encouraging further research on the toxicity of microplastics and their long-term effects on ecosystems and human health

By taking these actions, we can work towards achieving the Sustainable Development Goals and ensuring a sustainable future for our planet.

SDGs, Targets, and Indicators

1. Which SDGs are addressed or connected to the issues highlighted in the article?

• SDG 6: Clean Water and Sanitation
• SDG 11: Sustainable Cities and Communities
• SDG 12: Responsible Consumption and Production
• SDG 13: Climate Action
• SDG 14: Life Below Water
• SDG 15: Life on Land
• SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals

2. What specific targets under those SDGs can be identified based on the article’s content?

• Target 6.3: Improve water quality by reducing pollution, eliminating dumping, and minimizing the release of hazardous chemicals and materials
• Target 11.6: Reduce the adverse per capita environmental impact of cities, including air quality and waste management
• Target 12.4: By 2020, achieve the environmentally sound management of chemicals and all wastes throughout their life cycle, in accordance with agreed international frameworks, and significantly reduce their release to air, water, and soil to minimize their adverse impacts on human health and the environment
• Target 13.3: Improve education, awareness-raising, and human and institutional capacity on climate change mitigation, adaptation, impact reduction, and early warning
• Target 14.1: By 2025, prevent and significantly reduce marine pollution of all kinds, particularly from land-based activities, including marine debris and nutrient pollution
• Target 15.1: By 2020, ensure the conservation, restoration, and sustainable use of terrestrial and inland freshwater ecosystems and their services, in particular forests, wetlands, mountains, and drylands, in line with obligations under international agreements
• Target 17.16: Enhance the Global Partnership for Sustainable Development, complemented by multi-stakeholder partnerships that mobilize and share knowledge, expertise, technology, and financial resources

3. Are there any indicators mentioned or implied in the article that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets?

No, the article does not mention or imply any specific indicators that can be used to measure progress towards the identified targets.

4. SDGs, Targets and Indicators

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Source: theguardian.com

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