Researchers studied sand at Flamengo Beach in Rio de Janeiro during 2024. They collected samples before, during and shortly after Carnival, and again eight months later. The aim was to see how the event changed particle levels in the sand.
Results showed plastic fragments, including glitter, made up the majority of microplastics. Particle levels stayed higher for several days after Carnival ended. Scientists warn that these particles can move to the nearby ocean and be eaten by animals, or harm plants.
The study mentions alternatives to conventional glitter and notes a bill in Brazil would ban plastic and metal glitter.
Difficult words
- microplastic — very small pieces of plastic in environmentmicroplastics
- fragment — a small broken or separated piecefragments
- glitter — very small shiny plastic or metal pieces
- sample — small amounts of material for testingsamples
- ban — a law or rule that stops something
- alternative — other choices or options to usealternatives
- particle — a very small piece of matterparticles
Tip: hover, focus or tap highlighted words in the article to see quick definitions while you read or listen.
Discussion questions
- Have you seen plastic or glitter on a beach near you?
- What can people do to stop plastic and glitter from reaching the ocean?
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