Airborne microplastics in Europe’s largest plastic-covered semi-arid agricultural region. A pilot study

Environment International 2026 Open access

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Authors: Laura Cortés-Corrales, Mengyan Huang, Harshit Sahai, Alfredo Alcayde, Chen Chia Wang, Marı́a Dolores Hernando, Amadeo Rodriguez Fernández-Alba, María Jesús Martínez Bueno
DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2026.110314
Cited by: 1
References: 22

Abstract

). Fibres were the dominant particle type in all environments (70-83%), and 31% of particles were < 100 µm, highlighting a potentially inhalable fraction. Polymer composition also varied by site: PET was predominant overall (46-69%), PE was relatively enriched inside greenhouses (27%), and PP was more common in urban samples (24%). Contamination factor analysis indicated mainly moderate to considerable pollution, with higher average contamination in greenhouse and urban areas than in the natural area. These findings provide baseline evidence for exposure assessment in plastic-intensive agricultural landscapes.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Microplastics and Plastic Pollution biodegradable polymer synthesis and properties Recycling and Waste Management Techniques

Publication details

Journal / source
Environment International
Publisher
Elsevier BV
Volume
212
Pages
110314–110314
Publication date
20 May 2026
Language
EN