this post was submitted on 29 May 2025
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Fuck Cars

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Our report found that in 2016, four sources of microplastics alone accounted for 1.3 million metric tons (Mt)—or 11%—of total ocean plastic pollution. These were microbeads used in personal care products such as face scrubs and body washes; the breakdown of plastic fibers caused when synthetic textiles are washed; plastic pellets, also known as nurdles, that are used in the production of almost every plastic item; and the wear and tear of car tires, with this final source making up more than three quarters (78%) of microplastic pollution in the ocean.

For tires, improving design and reducing the number of miles driven, for example by increasing use of public transport instead of individual/private cars, can nearly halve microplastic pollution from tires by 2040.

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[–] Eyekaytee@aussie.zone 43 points 1 week ago* (last edited 1 week ago) (1 children)

edit: mis-read, 78% of microplastics in oceans

Our report found that in 2016, four sources of microplastics alone accounted for 1.3 million metric tons (Mt)—or 11%—of total ocean plastic pollution.

and the wear and tear of car tires, with this final source making up more than three quarters (78%) of microplastic pollution in the ocean

So they make up 78% of the 11% of plastic pollution in the oceans

they account for 28% of microplastics entering the environment globally.

https://theconversation.com/car-tyres-shed-a-quarter-of-all-microplastics-in-the-environment-urgent-action-is-needed-244132

[–] glibg@lemmy.ca 6 points 1 week ago

Important distinction! But still a huge amount coming from a single source.

[–] Sludgehammer@lemmy.world 22 points 1 week ago (5 children)

Always fun to read about considering I live about 20' from a busy highway.

[–] Catoblepas@lemmy.blahaj.zone 13 points 1 week ago* (last edited 1 week ago)

If you haven’t already, investing in HEPA filtration is a good idea. Vacuuming and dusting is also supposed to help, I regret to report.

[–] mriswith@lemmy.world 12 points 1 week ago (1 children)

I remember seeing a video where someone was trying to extract precious metal from highway dust. And they stuff they sweeped up made me really glad I don't live near a busy road anymore.

[–] trijste@lemmy.ca 4 points 1 week ago (1 children)
[–] frank@sopuli.xyz 2 points 1 week ago (1 children)

I tried to find it on his channel and couldn't. Got a link?

[–] MummifiedClient5000@feddit.dk 9 points 1 week ago (1 children)

Do you really find that fun to read about or is that the plastic talking?

[–] cecilkorik@lemmy.ca 3 points 1 week ago (2 children)

... is the plastic here in the room with us right now?

(Yes, yes it is)

[–] Noodle07@lemmy.world 1 points 1 week ago

The plastic is stored in the balls

[–] saigot@lemmy.ca 1 points 1 week ago* (last edited 1 week ago)

You probably had to touch plastic 75 times to type that

[–] Jimmycakes@lemmy.world 4 points 1 week ago (1 children)

Try not to breathe at home.

[–] Sludgehammer@lemmy.world 2 points 1 week ago* (last edited 1 week ago)

I've tried to quit breathing, but it seems that I'm addicted.

[–] Pilferjinx@lemmy.world 3 points 1 week ago

I really need to replace my plastic clothing and blankets..

[–] sirico@feddit.uk 20 points 1 week ago* (last edited 1 week ago) (1 children)

YeAH WeLL BiKES HaVe TIrEz SO sTop RiDINg uR BIke In tHe ROad!

😡56 👍82738283737272 🤣746

[–] ThefuzzyFurryComrade@pawb.social 8 points 1 week ago (1 children)
[–] chonglibloodsport@lemmy.world 4 points 1 week ago

Thanks. I feel like I’m always the one having to mention this one. It’s the biggest reason I became so negative on EVs.

[–] ArchmageAzor@lemmy.world 5 points 1 week ago (1 children)

Not surprising, tires are constantly worn.

[–] yardratianSoma@lemmy.ca 1 points 2 days ago

not surprising, but certainly damning

[–] prole@lemmy.blahaj.zone 1 points 1 week ago

I mean, the show isn't great, but damn...