Using nuclear science to examine the waters, sediment, and even penguin droppings in the Antarctic, researchers are able to determine the amount of microplastics present in the region.

The Argentine Antarctic Institute (IAA) and the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) inaugurated a new cooperative study this past weekend. The study is a component of the IAEA's NUTEC Plastics Initiative, which has examined microplastic pollution in nations all over the world.

The amount and source of pollutants found on the seabed could be accurately ascertained through the use of nuclear applications, according to Rafael Grossi, the director general of the IAEA.

Talking from the "white continent,” Grossi told reporters that the health of Antarctica was essential for the health of the planet. On Saturday, he and President Javier Milei of Argentina also traveled to Antarctica.

According to Grossi, there are microplastics in the environment, and this location is no different.

Using the Argentine icebreaker Almirante Irízar, the operation will involve scientists collecting samples from the Antarctic seafloor, the ocean surrounding the ice sheet, and penguin guano for analysis at Argentina's Carlini Base. The IAEA research center in Monaco will receive the remaining ones.

Researchers at the IAA, like Lucas Ruberto, said they were focusing on the tiniest percentage of microplastics and attempting to pinpoint their sources. After that, they would figure out how to remove or even stop them altogether.

According to Ruberto, the widespread use of microplastics, which are particles smaller than five millimeters, has resulted in an international issue. These particles are detrimental to life, as they can accumulate within organisms and cause diseases.