One study has found the tiny particles can harbour harmful microbes, including bugs that cause gastroenteritis and wound infections. In the UK there was microplastic pollution in all 10 lakes, rivers and reservoirs sampled. The particles are shed by synthetic clothing, vehicle tyres and through the spillage of plastic pellets used by manufacturers. Scotland Yard said in a statement it was unlikely to submit a file to prosecutors before “the latter part of 2021”. Sign upThe Guardian Morning Briefing is delivered to thousands of inboxes bright and early every weekday.

Source: The Guardian March 07, 2019 06:32 UTC