Scientists have issued an urgent warning for an immediate investigation to begin into the safety risks posed by tyre particles, which have emerged as the leading source of microplastic pollution.
The stark alert comes from a new study which highlighted the unique dangers of tyre-based pollutants, which differ significantly from traditional microplastics in their composition and behaviour.
Researchers raised concerns about the hundreds of unknown chemicals contained in tyre particles that could pose serious risks to both public health and the environment.
The investigation, involving scientists from nine countries including the UK, emphasises the need for a comprehensive understanding of how these particles impact ecosystems and human wellbeing.
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Tyre particles account for nearly a third of all microplastic pollution, making them a significant environmental concern. Unlike conventional microplastics, tyre particles possess distinct characteristics that could make them more hazardous to ecosystems.
These particles can exceed the typical 5mm size limit associated with traditional microplastics, creating unique challenges for environmental management.
Their chemical complexity sets them apart from other forms of microplastic pollution, with researchers particularly worried about their unpredictable behaviour in various ecosystems.
The particles spread through multiple pathways, including road run-off and wind distribution, eventually finding their way into waterways and soil.
Perhaps most concerning is their ability to enter food chains, potentially affecting both wildlife and human health through environmental exposure.
Henry Obanya from the University of Portsmouth’s Institute of Marine Science warned that tyre particles require special attention due to their unique properties.
“Tyre particles are classified as microplastics, yet they contain hundreds of unknown chemicals, many of which leach into the environment and pose unknown risks,” he said.
The researcher, who is also a member of the Revolution Plastics Institute, warned that there needs to be a new approach to studying these pollutants.
“Our study calls for TPs to be separated from traditional microplastics and recognised as a unique threat to environmental and public health. We need focused research to understand their pathways and impact,” Obanya stated.
This distinct classification would help target research efforts specifically towards understanding the unique challenges posed by tyre particles.
Tyre particles contain a complex mix of potentially harmful substances, including polyaromatic hydrocarbons and heavy metals.
These particles also contain various stabilising chemicals that make them chemically distinct from other forms of pollution.
The environmental impact is heightened by their degradation process, during which harmful chemicals can be released into surroundings.
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Their dispersal methods are particularly concerning, as they can spread through multiple pathways in the environment.
Road run-off carries these particles into waterways, while wind distribution helps them travel through the air. The particles eventually settle in various ecosystems, including waterways and soil.
Their ability to enter and potentially disrupt food chains raises significant concerns about long-term environmental and health impacts.
