In situ observations of microplastics in the atmosphere

Small plastic fragments, known as microplastics (MPs), have been shown to be a major environmental concern. MPs are omnipresent in marine environments and have recently been detected in the atmosphere. However, research on MP in the atmosphere is in its early stages, standardized detection methods are missing, and the size range <10 m most relevant for atmospheric transport is rarely detected due to methodical limitations. Therefore, only sparse measurements are available. Consequently, it is currently not possible to evaluate the atmospheric, climatic, ecological, and human health impacts of atmospheric MP. The overall hypothesis of PlasticSphere is that the atmosphere plays a critical role in the global cycle of plastics. The ambitious objectives include the development of a next-generation analytical MP detection method, the collection of MP data through ground-based and mobile field experiments, and model-supported analysis of sources and transport pathways to acquire a better understanding of atmospheric microplastic concentration at selected locations. PlasticSphere will make fundamental steps towards quantifying concentrations and properties of MPs in the atmosphere, and it will elevate process understanding of atmospheric MPs. This will form the basis for addressing climate-, ecosystem- and health-related questions and for developing plastic debris management strategies.