Plasticdustcloud is a research initiative led by the Eurofins Environment Testing microplastics peer group, focused on measuring and understanding microplastic pollution in the atmosphere. Its international study brought together sampling across three continents, nine countries and 12 locations, including sites in Australia, Europe and the United States. The project addresses gaps in knowledge about airborne microplastics, which can travel globally through air currents, and the lack of harmonised sampling and analytical methods.

The initiative applies a globally harmonised wet-and-dry deposition sampling method and shares research findings on particle levels, polymer types, particle sizes and sampling techniques. Its reported results show substantial differences between locations, with maximum deposition reaching 1,253 particles per square metre per day, or 3.1 milligrams per square metre per day. Polyethylene and polypropylene were the most commonly identified polymers, and 91% of detected particles were smaller than 100 micrometres. Through location-specific results and research communication, Plasticdustcloud makes evidence about airborne microplastic contamination accessible.