DM: Scientists have found microplastics in Antarctica’s snow for the first time
Scientists have found particles of microplastic in the snow of Antarctica, writes the Daily Mail with reference to the British Antarctic Survey.
The microplastics were found near some scientific bases in Antarctica, the first time microscopic particles have been found in such remote locations.
‘It could be caused by outerwear or ropes and flags used to mark safe routes in and around the camp,’ said ocean ecologist Dr Clara Manno.
That said, the paper said, there is concern about the possible environmental impact of the particles found in Antarctica, where nothing like this has ever been found before due to strict regulations controlling imported materials.
‘Our results suggest microplastic contamination even in remote and tightly controlled areas,’ warned study co-author Kirsty Jones-Williams, noting that ’there is no truly pristine place on Earth.’