PPE use during pandemic had impact

The study revealed that personal protective equipment (PPE) use had increased because of Covid, producing more MPs.

The reduction in rainfall during monsoon 2020 and the lockdown led to a dip in MP concentration when compared to 2019.

Polyethylene and polyethylene terephthalate were the most abundant polymers. The situation of MP pollution in Western Ghats can be mitigated with the aid of appropriate waste management of plastic trash and greater public awareness about the disposal of single-use plastics, which has risen significantly, explained Anish Kumar Warrier, co-author of the paper.