Japanese scientists have discovered microplastics in clouds, an alarming discovery with strong environmental implications.⁠ ⁠ Researchers from Japan’s Waseda University collected 44 cloud water samples from the summits of Mount Fuji, Mount Oyama and other locations ranging in altitude from 4,200 to 12,300 feet. They investigated the presence of airborne microplastics (plastic particles under 5 millimeters) using advanced imaging techniques like attenuated total reflection imaging and micro-Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy.⁠ ⁠ The team identified a total of 70 microplastic particles, representing 9 different types of polymers and 1 type of rubber. These tiny particles, measuring between 7.1 and 94.6 micrometers, were found in concentrations ranging from 6.7 to 13.9 particles per liter (33.8 oz).⁠ ⁠ While not much is known about the actual effects of the airborne particles, its results could be catastrophic. The scientists noted that when these airborne microplastics are exposed t...