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2mo ago

Study Reveals High Levels of Microplastics in Bird Lungs, Raising Concerns for Human Health

Researchers found alarming concentrations of airborne microplastics in birds, highlighting potential risks to ecosystems and human populations.

A long-tailed shrike—one of the bird species included in the study—and, inset, microplastic particles.
A UTA study finds high levels of microplastics in bird lungs.

Overview

  • A University of Texas at Arlington-led study analyzed lung samples from 56 wild birds across 51 species near Chengdu Tianfu International Airport in China.
  • Advanced chemical techniques identified an average of 416 microplastic particles per gram of lung tissue, with common types including chlorinated polyethylene and butadiene rubber.
  • Birds were chosen as bioindicators due to their shared environments with humans and their global presence, offering insights into pollution's ecological spread.
  • Microplastics, linked to health risks such as cancer, respiratory issues, and fertility problems, were found in both inhaled air and potentially contaminated food and water sources.
  • Researchers emphasized the urgent need for action on plastic pollution, including improved waste management and further studies on its impacts on ecosystems and human health.