Biomonitoring of Airborne Microplastic Deposition in Semi-Natural and Rural Sites Using the Moss <i>Hypnum cupressiforme</i>

Abstract

We show that the native moss Hypnum cupressiforme can be used as a biomonitor of atmospheric microplastics (MPs). The moss was collected in seven semi-natural and rural sites in Campania (southern Italy) and was analyzed for the presence of MPs, according to standard protocols. Moss samples from all sites accumulated MPs, with fibers representing the largest fraction of plastic debris. Higher numbers of MPs and longer fibers were recorded in moss samples from sites closer to urbanized areas, likely as the results of a continuous flux from sources. The MP size class distribution showed that small size classes characterized sites having a lower level of MP deposition and a high altitude above sea level.

Keywords

• FT-IR microscope
• atmospheric pollution
• passive biomonitoring
• plastic polymers
• microfibers