Scientists Find Microplastics in Archaeological Remains
Microplastics have permeated nearly every corner of our planet, from oceans to food, from the atmosphere to human bodies. Now, scientists have detected their presence in an unexpected place: ancient archaeological sites.
According to a study published in March in the journal Science of the Total Environment, researchers found microplastics in soil deposits dating back to the first or early second century C.E. These deposits, unearthed from depths of 7.35 m beneath the ground, were sourced from archaeological sites in York, England. Using advanced imaging techniques, the researchers identified 66 particles comprising 16 different polymer types across all the samples. What’s particularly striking about this discovery is that these samples were excavated in the late 1980s, showing that the infiltration of microplastics into ancient soil has been ongoing for decades.
Microplastics, typically smaller than 5 mm in length, originate from various sources such as laundry, landfills, beauty products, and sewage sludge. These tiny pieces of plastic form when larger plastics break down. While the issue of microplastic pollution typically centers around its impact on the environment and human health, with this new revelation, there is now concern about whether microplastics would compromise the integrity of archaeological samples. Leaving ancient remains in their original locations has been the preferred approach to conservation for years. However, these new findings suggest that a change may be needed.
David Jennings, chief executive of York Archaeology, underscored the implications, stating, “The presence of microplastics can and will change the chemistry of the soil, potentially introducing elements which will cause the organic remains to decay. If that is the case, preserving archaeology in situ may no longer be appropriate.”
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1. What is said about microplastics in paragraph 1?
2. What have researchers found microplastics? Describe what they found and what is striking about this discovery.
3. Where do microplastics come from? How do they form?
4. What does Jennings say about microplastics?
1. What are some items made with plastic? Is the use of plastic necessary?
2. What can you do to reduce the use of plastic?
3. What is your opinion on microplastics?
4. Which things would you like to preserve?
Microplastics have permeated nearly every corner of our planet, from oceans to food, from the atmosphere to human bodies. Now, scientists have detected their presence in an unexpected place: ancient archaeological sites.
