TAIPEI (Taiwan News) — Taiwanese experts say plastic pollution could be considered alongside climate and air quality policies, in addition to existing waste management approaches, CNA reported Tuesday.

A study published in Nature Climate Change reports that previously overlooked airborne microplastics and nanoplastics may contribute to global warming. The research suggests these particles can influence how much solar radiation is absorbed or reflected in the atmosphere.

Lee Chung-te (李崇德), professor emeritus at National Central University’s Graduate Institute of Environmental Engineering, said the study shows microplastics and nanoplastics can affect Earth’s heat balance through direct radiative forcing. However, the environmental factor has received limited attention in policy discussions.

The study estimates that the warming effect of airborne plastic particles is about 16.2% of that attributed to black carbon, a pollutant mainly produced by biomass burning and diesel engines. While black carbon remains the larger contributor globally, the study shows plastic particles may play a relatively greater role in certain regions.

Lee said Taiwan has reduced black carbon emissions in recent years through measures targeting open burning and older diesel vehicles. However, microplastics, mainly generated through the use of plastic products and the shedding of synthetic textiles, are not widely regulated.

He suggested these sources could receive further policy attention. Shiu Ruei-feng (許瑞峯), associate professor at National Taiwan Ocean University’s Institute of Marine Environment and Ecology, said plastic pollution may be considered in conjunction with climate and air pollution strategies.

Shiu identified potential sources of microplastics for further study and possible regulatory consideration. These include plastic production and recycling processes, tire wear, textile fiber release, and port-related activities.