Plant leaves absorb microplastics and nanoplastics directly from the air: A new multinational study published in Nature shows plants can uptake these particles.
Entry Pathways: Microplastics enter leaves via stomata (pores for gas exchange) and the cuticle (protective wax layer).
Internal Movement: Once inside, microplastics move between plant cells and accumulate in trichomes (hair-like structures) and can travel through plant’s water and nutrient transport systems.
Microplastics Defined: Microplastics are plastic particles up to 5mm in diameter; nanoplastics are <1,000 nanometres.
Sources of Microplastics: Originate from degraded plastics, cosmetics, textiles, and industrial waste.
Environmental Entry: Enter ecosystems through wastewater, runoff, atmospheric deposition, and product use. A 2022 study showed microplastics in 90% of Ganga River samples.
Ecological Impact: Poses ecological and public health risks as microplastics accumulate in plants and potentially bioaccumulate in the food chain via herbivores and crops.
Human Health Concerns: Long-term human health impacts are unclear. Further research is needed on dietary exposure, absorption in the digestive system, and potential organ distribution.
Chemical Risks: Microplastics can carry pollutants and toxic chemicals, increasing health dangers.
Study Collaboration: The study was conducted by scientists from Nankai University, University of Massachusetts Amherst, the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Northeastern University, and the Beijing Academy of Agriculture and Forestry Sciences.
