Microscopic plastic pollutants are infiltrating the lungs of birds, raising concerns about the potential risks to human health, according to a new study led by researchers at the University of Texas at Arlington. The study provides the first multi-species evidence of microplastic and nanoplastic (MNP) contamination in bird lungs, highlighting their potential role as bioindicators of airborne plastic pollution.
Researchers analyzed lung tissue from 56 birds spanning 51 species collected at Chengdu Tianfu International Airport in China. Using laser direct infrared (LDIR) spectroscopy and pyrolysis gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (Py-GC-MS), they detected a high prevalence of microplastics and nanoplastics in the birds’ respiratory systems.
LDIR spectroscopy identified an average of 221 microplastic particles per species. The most common polymers detected included chlorinated polyethylene and butadiene rubber, widely used in construction and aviation industries. The particles primarily ranged between 20–50 micrometers in size, suggesting a strong potential for inhalation and retention in the lungs. Py-GC-MS analysis of a subset of bird species revealed the presence of nylon 66, polyvinyl chloride, and polypropylene nanoplastics, materials frequently used in textiles and packaging.
"Birds serve as important indicators of environmental conditions," said Shane DuBay, an assistant professor of biology at UTA and study co-author, in a press release. "They help us understand the state of the environment and make informed decisions about conservation and pollution control."
The study found that terrestrial, carnivorous, and larger-bodied birds exhibited higher burdens of microplastics, likely due to their greater exposure to airborne pollutants. The ecological risk assessment, based on a polymer hazard index, classified most samples as high risk (levels III or IV), indicating potential health implications for wildlife and humans alike.
"Our research highlights an urgent need to address plastic pollution in our environments, as these contaminants can have far-reaching impacts on ecosystem health, as well as human health," DuBay added.
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