New Study Finds First Evidence Of Microplastics In Dolphins’ Breath

A new study published in the research journal Plos One has found evidence of microplastic inhalation in dolphins for the first time. The study revealed that all dolphin samples collected contained at least one suspected microplastic particle, indicating that inhalation is likely a source of exposure for these marine mammals. Researchers warn that this exposure could lead to lung damage and other negative health outcomes, suggesting that more research is needed to fully understand the extent of the issue.

Microplastics, which are created by the degradation of larger plastic pieces, are a significant source of ocean pollution. Approximately 80 percent of marine debris is plastic, with millions of pieces entering the ocean daily. The study suggests that microplastics distributed in the air through the ocean's surface may be responsible for the particles found in dolphins' breath, highlighting the urgent need to address plastic pollution to protect marine life and ecosystems.