By Fatma Younis
Microplastic and nanoplastic particles are raining down on Mount Everest throughout the year, scientists have warned in a new study. The research reveals that the Tibetan Plateau receives an estimated 56 tons of microplastics annually at altitudes above 4,000 metres.
High-altitude monitoring reveals significant deposition
Chinese researchers conducted months of monitoring on the mountain's northern slope. The Qomolangma Station, a high-altitude research facility in Tibet, recorded 64 microplastic particles per square metre per day, while Everest Base Camp recorded 23 particles per square metre per day.
Plastic types identified
The particles mainly included polyamide, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyethylene. Higher levels of smaller nanoplastics were also found at Qomolangma Station, including polyethylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyvinyl chloride, and polypropylene.
Atmosphere acts as efficient transport pathway
The study shows that monsoon periods increase microplastic volumes through wet deposition, where rain, snow, or mist capture airborne particles and carry them to the surface. Researchers concluded that the atmosphere is an efficient pathway for plastic delivery to the Third Pole, posing potential ecological risks.
