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Microplastics – News and Features

Fish surrounded by microplastics in the sea.
News

Researchers Develop New Plastic That Is Recyclable, Ocean-Degradable and Won’t Leave Microplastics Behind

Researchers at RIKEN have developed a biodegradable plastic that dissolves in seawater, preventing microplastic pollution. The material, made from ionic monomers forming salt bridges, is as strong as conventional plastics.
A hand holding small pieces of plastic between their finger and thumb.
News

Nanoplastics Weaken Antibiotics and Risk Resistance

Nanoplastics found in indoor air can bind to antibiotics like tetracycline, reducing their effectiveness and potentially fostering antibiotic-resistant bacteria. A study highlights health risks from plastics like nylon.
A pile of tires.
News

Researchers Develop Technique To Remove Toxic Particles From End-of-Life Tires

University of Delaware researchers developed a chemical process to remove toxic 6PPD from end-of-life tires. The method converts tires into safe products like carbon black and aromatics, enabling recycling for practical applications.
A river in the mountains.
News

Researchers Map Microbiomes Across U.S. Rivers for the First Time

A CSU-led study mapped microbiomes in rivers covering 90% of U.S. watersheds, showing microbes’ roles in nutrient flow and contaminant processing. Findings support the River Continuum Concept and reveal predictable microbial behaviors.
A scientist taking water samples from a river.
News

Microplastics and PFAS Persist in Waste Treatment Systems

Study shows wastewater treatment plants remove 99% of microplastics and some PFAS from water, but these contaminants accumulate in biosolids, which are often spread on farmland. Researchers highlight the need to stop producing microplastics and PFAS.
Antibiotics in a blister packet
News

Nanoplastics Can Induce Antibiotic Resistance

New research has shown that nanoplastics that enter the body can impair the effect of antibiotic treatment, leading to antibiotic resistance.
Someone holding microplastics between their thumb and forefinger.
News

Wastewater Treatment Fails To Remove Pathogens Stuck on Microplastics

A study from the Norwegian University of Life Sciences shows that microplastic biofilms in wastewater treatment plants can harbor pathogens like E. coli and norovirus, even after treatment. These biofilms protect pathogens from removal processes.
A large amount of mealworms.
News

Researchers Look to Mealworms To Help Solve Africa’s Plastic Waste Problem

Researchers at icipe have discovered that lesser mealworms, native to Africa, can consume and break down polystyrene, aided by gut bacteria that help digest the plastic. This discovery may advance efforts to reduce plastic waste.
Clouds.
News

Microplastics May Alter Weather Patterns

A study from Penn State reveals that microplastics can act as ice nucleating particles (INPs) in clouds, promoting ice crystal formation at higher temperatures. This mechanism suggests a role for microplastics in altering precipitation patterns.
A river runs through green hills.
News

Microplastics in Rivers Are Directly Tied to Increasing Plastic Production

Microplastics have been steadily increasing in rivers, and levels are directly tied to rising plastic production, a new study finds.
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