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Heat trapping colored microplastics could be making climate change worse than thought
Science
Published on 9 May 2026
New research shows atmospheric plastic holds heat far more
Scientists report that colored microplastics floating in the atmosphere can trap heat much more effectively than previously assumed, especially over regions with heavy plastic pollution. The findings suggest current climate models are missing a key warming driver. Researchers say model updates are needed to better forecast temperature trends and understand the full climate impact of plastic waste.
- Colored microplastics in the air can trap significant heat
- The effect is strongest over areas with high plastic pollution
- Current climate models likely underestimate this warming factor
- Researchers call for climate model updates using new evidence
Read the full story at The Economic Times
This summarization was done by Beige for a story published on 
The Economic Times