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78% of Microplastic Pollution is Created by Tires (www.pew.org)
submitted 4 days ago by [email protected] to c/[email protected]
21 comments fedilink hide all child comments

Our report found that in 2016, four sources of microplastics alone accounted for 1.3 million metric tons (Mt)—or 11%—of total ocean plastic pollution. These were microbeads used in personal care products such as face scrubs and body washes; the breakdown of plastic fibers caused when synthetic textiles are washed; plastic pellets, also known as nurdles, that are used in the production of almost every plastic item; and the wear and tear of car tires, with this final source making up more than three quarters (78%) of microplastic pollution in the ocean.

For tires, improving design and reducing the number of miles driven, for example by increasing use of public transport instead of individual/private cars, can nearly halve microplastic pollution from tires by 2040.

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[-] [email protected] 22 points 4 days ago

Always fun to read about considering I live about 20' from a busy highway.

[-] [email protected] 12 points 3 days ago

I remember seeing a video where someone was trying to extract precious metal from highway dust. And they stuff they sweeped up made me really glad I don't live near a busy road anymore.

[-] [email protected] 4 points 3 days ago

Try not to breathe at home.

[-] [email protected] 1 points 2 days ago* (last edited 2 days ago)

I've tried to quit breathing, but it seems that I'm addicted.

[-] [email protected] 9 points 3 days ago

Do you really find that fun to read about or is that the plastic talking?

[-] [email protected] 3 points 3 days ago

... is the plastic here in the room with us right now?

(Yes, yes it is)

[-] [email protected] 1 points 2 days ago

The plastic is stored in the balls

[-] [email protected] 1 points 2 days ago* (last edited 2 days ago)

You probably had to touch plastic 75 times to type that

[-] [email protected] 13 points 4 days ago* (last edited 4 days ago)

If you haven’t already, investing in HEPA filtration is a good idea. Vacuuming and dusting is also supposed to help, I regret to report.

[-] [email protected] 3 points 3 days ago

I really need to replace my plastic clothing and blankets..

this post was submitted on 29 May 2025
188 points (97.5% liked)

Fuck Cars

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