Data on atmospheric microplastics (AMPs) in Central Asia remain scarce despite increasing documentation of aquatic contamination. This study assesses AMP dynamics in two distinct regions of Uzbekistan: Navoi (industrial) and Bukhara (residential). Sampling was conducted at a height of 15 m using a Lanzoni VPPS 2010 volumetric trap, with samples analyzed in two-hour intervals to evaluate diurnal variability. Identification followed standardized visual criteria and the “hot needle test.” Microplastics (fibers and fragments) were ubiquitous at both sites. Mean concentrations in Bukhara (0.83 ± 0.42 items/L) and Navoi (0.69 ± 0.35 items/L) showed no statistically significant difference (p = 0.5639). Morphological analysis revealed a prevalence of fibers (1000 – 4000 µm). Diurnal peaks during morning and early afternoon correlated with anthropogenic activity and arid-zone thermal convection. The results suggest an “urban carpet” effect in Bukhara equivalent to the industrial load in Navoi. This study establishes a vital baseline for the Kyzylkum region’s atmospheric MP cycles.
Yuldasheva et al. (2026) studied this question.