Microplastics Around Us

Microplastics (plastic < 5mm in size) are ubiquitous in our environment and living in the PNW, we encounter them in unexpected places. The Salish Sea experiences seasonal fluctuations in precipitation, river discharge, sewage overflow events, and tourism– all variables thought to have an impact on microplastic transport and concentrations. Through examining seasonality and animal life history traits, we can better understand where and how microplastics are most affecting important marine organisms, ecosystems, and communities.

Affiliation: The Boeing Company: Sustainability and conservation scientist focused on behavioral change at Boeing’s Everett facility

Recommended:

• https://lydaharris.com/ – Please watch the news videos linked below
  • https://www.kcts9.org/show/human-elements/episode/the-plastic-in-everything-0nay4s (6 minutes)
  • https://komonews.com/news/local/microplastics-are-being-found-in-multiple-salish-sea-species (3 minutes)