A new study has shown that retention ponds and wetlands constructed as part of major road schemes can reduce the amount of tyre particles entering the aquatic environment by an average of 75%. The research was conducted along busy routes in South West England and the Midlands, where tyre particles were found in all 70 samples collected. The presence of wetlands and retention ponds led to a significant reduction in the mass of tyre wear particles being discharged into aquatic waters, offering protection to rivers and the ocean. This study highlights the importance of these drainage measures in mitigating the impact of tyre pollution globally.
The study, published in the Environmental Science and Pollution Research journal, was carried out by scientists from the University of Plymouth and Newcastle University and funded by UK National Highways. Lead author Florence Parker-Jurd explained that while retention ponds and wetlands are primarily built to prevent downstream flooding, they also play a crucial role in removing pollutants from the environment. The research findings provide valuable insights into the extent and nature of tyre pollution, offering potential solutions for managing this issue on a global scale. These results have significant implications for the management of tyre wear particle pollution worldwide.
Dr. Geoff Abbott, Reader in Organic Geochemistry at Newcastle University, previously developed a method using pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry to detect tyre-derived particles in the environment. This approach has enabled researchers to quantify the components of microplastics that can be directly linked to vehicle tyre tread. By analyzing the total amount of tyre wear particles in retention ponds and wetlands, the research team was able to assess the effectiveness of these drainage features in reducing the flow of tyre pollution into rivers and seas. This innovative method has provided valuable data on the distribution of tyre particles in the environment.
Professor Richard Thompson, Head of the International Marine Litter Research Unit and senior author of the study, emphasized the importance of addressing tyre pollution as a significant source of microplastic pollution globally. While the study shows that existing road network features can help reduce the flow of tyre particles into water bodies, more systemic solutions may be needed to address this issue comprehensively. Professor Thompson is leading the TYRE-LOSS project, which aims to raise awareness of the impacts of tyre pollution on marine ecosystems. Previous research by scientists involved in this project has identified tyre particles released into the environment as a “high concern” pollutant, underscoring the urgency of addressing this issue.
The study also found that tyre wear particles significantly outweighed other forms of microplastics in the samples collected, indicating the prevalence of this type of pollution along major road routes. However, the retention ponds and wetlands were able to remove these particles in large quantities, offering a promising solution to mitigate the impacts of tyre pollution on water bodies. The international significance of this research highlights the potential for implementing similar drainage measures in other regions to reduce the flow of tyre particles into the environment effectively. As the study recommends, prioritizing the maintenance of retention ponds and wetlands is essential to ensure ongoing benefits in reducing tyre pollution.
Overall, this research sheds light on the effectiveness of retention ponds and wetlands in reducing the discharge of tyre wear particles into aquatic environments. By highlighting the potential of these drainage measures to mitigate the impacts of tyre pollution on rivers and oceans, the study offers valuable insights for addressing this global environmental issue. Moving forward, further research and collaborative efforts will be needed to develop comprehensive solutions to tackle tyre pollution and its implications for marine ecosystems. The findings of this study provide a foundation for future initiatives aimed at protecting the environment from the harmful effects of tyre wear particles.