Study Warns of Rising Health Threat from Tire Particle Pollution

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Scientists have issued a warning regarding the environmental and health risks associated with tire particle pollution, which has now become the leading source of microplastic contamination. A recent study highlights that these tire particles possess distinct properties that differentiate them from traditional microplastics, making them potentially more harmful to ecosystems and human health.

Tire particles contribute to nearly one-third of microplastic pollution, and their unique composition—containing various chemicals including polyaromatic hydrocarbons and heavy metals—raises concerns about their behavior when entering water and soil. Dr. Henry Obanya, a study author from the University of Portsmouth's Institute of Marine Science, emphasizes the need for focused research to understand the pathways and impacts of these pollutants.

The study also points to evidence of a chemical known as 6PPD, added to tires to prevent cracking, which was found to be highly toxic to certain fish species and has been detected in human urine samples. As part of the call to action, researchers urge regulatory measures and cleanup solutions to mitigate tire pollution, noting existing efforts in places like California where regulations already address tire-related toxins.

Further investigation is essential to comprehend the long-term effects of tire particles on environmental and human health, as scientists continue to explore innovative clean-up strategies for microplastics across ecosystems.

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