Chinese scientists have reported the discovery of microplastics in the clouds above Mount Tai, which could cause turbulent weather changes and endanger ecosystems and human health. Mount Tai, a World Heritage Site, became the scene of a unique study in which archaeologists analyzed cloud water from the top of the mountain.
The study found the presence of microplastics in 24 of 28 cloud water samples, and its concentration increased closer to the surface of the earth. Scientists hypothesize that microplastics in clouds may cause increased precipitation or changes in temperature conditions, although more research is needed to fully understand this effect.
Further analysis pointed to the possibility that microplastics in clouds carry metals from industrial pollution, which could affect ecosystems and human health. Although microplastics are very small in size, they have a significant impact on the environment.
The researchers stress that their findings are just the beginning of understanding the problem, and acknowledge that not all aspects of microplastics have been studied, including ultra-small pieces of plastic.
