What's Happening?
A new study has discovered that perchlorates, toxic chemicals that can contaminate groundwater, are formed in the stratosphere. These chemicals, which can disrupt thyroid function, are found on particles of smoke and organic material high above the Earth's surface. The research, conducted using NASA's WB-57 aircraft, revealed that perchlorates do not adhere to common sulfuric acid particles but instead to nitrogen-rich and smoke particles. This finding raises concerns about the potential increase in perchlorate contamination due to human pollution in the stratosphere.
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Why It's Important?
The study's findings are significant as they suggest a natural source of perchlorate formation that could be exacerbated by human activities. Perchlorates are known to persist in the environment for thousands of years, posing long-term risks to water quality and public health. The research calls for further investigation into how changes in stratospheric particles might affect perchlorate levels. This has implications for environmental policy and the regulation of pollutants, as well as for geoengineering proposals that involve injecting particles into the atmosphere.
What's Next?
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is expected to propose national regulations for perchlorate in drinking water by November. Further research is needed to understand the impact of human activities on perchlorate formation in the stratosphere. Scientists are encouraged to use existing laboratory instrumentation to study perchlorate chemistry and assess the potential risks of increased perchlorate levels due to pollution or geoengineering efforts.
