92_Romarate_Plasticization of Metro Manila’s Ambient Air: the presence of emerging suspended atmospheric microplastics

            The detection of atmospheric microplastics (SAMPs) measuring under 5mm is an issue of increasing concern, as their presence has been found in diverse environments, including urban and remote locations. This study aims to address this lacuna in the context of Metro Manila, Philippines. Utilizing a respirable dust sampler with Whatman GF/C filter paper, air samples from 16 cities and one municipality were analyzed. A total of 155 SAMPs were confirmed across all locations, with the highest concentrations observed in Muntinlupa and Mandaluyong cities (0.023 SAMPs/m³).

The SAMPs identified were categorized into 14 types, with polyester constituting approximately 74%. This study represents the first empirical evidence of airborne microplastics in the Philippines. Based on these findings, it is estimated that an adult resident in Metro Manila could inhale approximately one SAMP over 99 to 132 hours of normal ventilation.

These results hold significant implications for environmental policy. Despite existing governmental efforts to mitigate plastic pollution, the aerial dimension of microplastics remains largely unaddressed. Future regulatory frameworks should extend beyond tackling visible forms of plastic waste, such as bottles and bags, to include airborne microplastics originating from often-overlooked sources like synthetic fibers in clothing. This research underscores the necessity for comprehensive, multi-dimensional policies to manage the burgeoning issue of plastic pollution in the Philippines.

Taken on: October 20, 2023

Tags:

Air quality

suspended atmospheric microplastics

air pollution

microplastics « less

Sets appears in: • The science and policies on air pollution and health

Stats: 128 views

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