Decomposition of plastic waste: Large pieces of plastic that are discarded into the environment form tiny plastic particles during weathering and decomposition, which are subsequently carried into the air by the wind.
Wear and tear of road traffic vehicle tires and plastic particles generated during braking are significant sources of microplastics in the air. These particles are released into the air along with road traffic emissions.
Release from synthetic textiles: During the washing process, synthetic textiles (e.g. polyester, nylon, etc.) release tiny fibrous particles that include microplastics. These fiber particles can enter the sewer system through the wash water and may eventually enter bodies of water through wastewater treatment plants or enter indoor air through drying of clothing and indoor air movement during the laundering process.
Industrial emissions: Some industrial processes, such as plastic manufacturing and paint production, may emit microplastic particles directly into the air.
Agricultural activities: Microplastic particles generated during the decomposition of plastic waste from agricultural fields (e.g. agricultural mulch) may also be carried into the air by wind.
Microplastic particles from these sources can remain in the atmosphere for a period of time and may subsequently be blown elsewhere by the wind or even deposited on the ground or in bodies of water, posing a potential threat to the environment and human health.
