Science Stats Environment

Car tires and brake pads produce harmful microplastics

These particles can end up in bodies of freshwater and, eventually, the ocean

TREAD LIGHTLY  Tiny pieces from rubber tires, brake pads and asphalt make up most of the airborne microplastic pollution around three German highways, a study finds.

LeManna/Shutterstock

By Jennifer Leman

- More than 2 years ago

There’s a big problem where the rubber meets the road: microplastics.

Scientists analyzed more than 500 small particles pulled from the air around three busy German highways, and found that the vast majority — 89 percent — came from vehicle tires, brake systems and roads themselves.