| Abstract |
Microplastics (<5 mm) have lately been identifed in the atmosphere of urban, suburban, and even distant places far from
plastic particle areas, suggesting the possibility of long-distance atmospheric transport of microplastics. However, the occurrence, fate, transmission, and efects of these suspended atmospheric microplastics (SAMPs) are all currently unknown in
the Philippines. This study investigated the presence of suspected microplastic in the atmosphere of sixteen cities and one
municipality of Metro Manila, Philippines. Sampling was conducted using a respirable dust sampler mounted with a Whatman GF/C flter paper at an intake fow rate of 1.4 L/min with Whatman GF/C flter paper. Results reveal that all seventeen
sampling areas have the presence of SAMPs. A total of 155 SAMPs were found and confrmed in Metro Manila, with the
highest concentration in Muntinlupa City and Mandaluyong City (0.023 SAMP/NCM). Fourteen SAMP types were identifed
across the sampling areas, 芒聛聯 74% with polyester. This study is the frst record of the presence of microplastics suspended
in the ambient air in the Philippines. It is estimated that an adult person in Metro Manila has the potential to inhale (5芒聙聯8
per minute, normal minute ventilation) about 1 SAMP if exposed for about 99.0 to 132 h. Further studies should be done to
evaluate the fate and health efects of these SAMPs in Metro Manila芒聙聶s setting. |
Mindanao State
University - Iligan Institute of Technology