Atmospheric microplastics in the Arctic Region: An examination of deposited and suspended atmospheric microplastics in Ny-Ålesund, Svalbard

Atmospheric microplastics (MPs) are an emerging environmental concern and have been reported globally, from large urban cities such as Beijing to remote regions such as Antarctica. Due to their small size, MPs can be transported large distances and pose a threat to human health, ecosystem function, and climate processes. However, significant gaps in knowledge surrounding the presence and characteristics of atmospheric MPs found in remote regions remain, especially in the polar regions. These are sensitive environments with relatively low levels of human activity, and play important roles in the earth’s climate and ecosystem health. Although atmospheric MPs have been reported in both the Artic and Antarctic, the importance of local and distal sources, and the roles atmospheric and marine transport processes, are unclear. By examining the presence of atmospheric MPs in this region and their transport, it is possible to gain more understanding of the global extent of MP pollution and the pathways which result in the presence of this pollutant in such pristine locations.  

Supported by the Norwegian Polar Institute, deposited and suspended atmospheric MPs were collected over a 28-day period between May and June 2022 at the Ny-Ålesund Arctic research station in (78°55’ N, 11°56’ E), using active and passive sampling. µRaman analysis was carried out to identify polymer composition, and Nile-Red staining has been used to examine the shape and size of these particulates.

Atmospheric MP concentrations for the Artic region are reported and the environmental implications discussed. This is the first time both suspended and deposited atmospheric MPs have been reported in this area, and this offers the opportunity to further understand the global extent and composition of this emerging pollutant.