Plastic pollution has been a known problem for decades, but more recently researchers have been focusing on this idea of microplastics, that is, plastic particles about 5mm in size or smaller. Where do microplastics come from? What are the threats? And what can we do? Find out in this episode.
In this episode we explore what exactly microplastics are, some major sources of microplastics, concerns about microplastics, and ways we, as consumers can make a positive impact.
We hope this brief introduction to microplastics will help you feel more informed and motivated to make some lifestyle changes. With your help, we have a much better chance of lessening our contribution to microplastic pollution.
New Episode from Naturally Florida
Naturally Florida (a podcast about Florida’s natural areas and the wild things that live here) recently released a new episode about microplastics in Florida.
Check it out, below on Spotify, or on your favorite podcast platform.
If you enjoyed this episode about microplastics, please consider sharing it with a friend.
You can find all the podcast platforms where Naturally Florida is published, submit feedback, or request future topics at www.naturallyfloridapodcast.com
Learn more:
- What are microplastics? https://oceanservice.noaa.gov/facts/microplastics.html
- Watch a webinar on “Microplastics 101” – https://youtu.be/v0xVeMkxDZc (Taught by Lara)
How You Can Help:
- Share what you learned with a friend!
- Get involved with the Florida Microplastics Awareness Project – https://flseagrant.ifas.ufl.edu/microplastics/
- Take the pledge – A brief pledge of easy ways you can lessen your contribution to microplastics: https://ufl.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_3kgYVW8A9qOhu6h
- Use your voice – Ask your favorite companies to make a change, write to your elected officials, and lead by example.
Sources for this Episode:
- Primary Microplastics in the Oceans: a Global Evaluation of Sources – https://portals.iucn.org/library/sites/library/files/documents/2017-002-En.pdf
- Microplastics removal from a primary settler tank in a wastewater treatment plant – https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0269749122004122?via%3Dihub
- Microplastics Increase Soil pH and Decrease Microbial Activities – https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fenvs.2021.675803/full
Learn about other episodes from Naturally Florida by Clicking Here.
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UF/IFAS Extension is an Equal Opportunity Institution.
Source: UF/IFAS Alert – https://blogs.ifas.ufl.edu/
