Microplastics: 77% more found in River Thames during lockdown may be due to discarded face masks and PPE – research shows

Oxana A / shutterstock

At a first glance the COVID-19 pandemic seemed to have a positive impact on the environment, with significant decreases in greenhouse gas emissions, and transport-related noise, air and light pollution.

However, our research found discarded face coverings and other personal protective equipment (PPE) are likely to be the cause of a rise in microplastics entering the environment.