The Great Lakes contain an estimated 10,000 metric tons of plastic debris, according to a study by the Rochester Institute of Technology in New York. Microplastics make up a majority of plastic pollution in the lakes, which could cause harm to marine life and, ultimately, to human health through the food chain. Ingesting microplastics can cause harm to the digestive systems of fish and other aquatic organisms, leading to starvation. Meanwhile, larger pieces of plastic also pose a threat as they can become entangled around the limbs and bodies of marine animals, causing injury and immobilisation.
Study reveals alarming levels of plastic pollution in the Great Lakes
The Great Lakes, which are the largest group of freshwater lakes in the world, are under threat from an alarming amount of plastic pollution that could have a devastating impact on the ecosystem. According to a new study, which was undertaken by the Rochester Institute of Technology in New York, the five lakes that make up the Great Lakes – Huron, Ontario, Michigan, Erie, and Superior – contain an estimated 10,000 metric tons of plastic debris, which is equivalent to approximately 22 million pounds.
Plastic Pollution in the Great Lakes – A Serious Issue
The study, which was published in the Marine Pollution Bulletin, reveals that plastic pollution has increasingly become a serious issue for the Great Lakes, particularly concerning microplastics. These tiny plastic particles can be extremely harmful to the environment, and ultimately, to human health. Researchers found that microplastics made up a majority of the plastic pollution in the Great Lakes, with estimates suggesting that there could be up to 65,000 microplastic particles per square kilometer.
The Impact of Plastic Pollution on Marine Life
Plastic pollution in the Great Lakes poses a significant threat to marine life. Microplastics can be ingested by fish and other aquatic organisms, causing harm to their digestive systems and leading to starvation. Additionally, larger plastic debris can become entangled around the limbs and bodies of marine animals, causing injury and immobilization. This can ultimately lead to death.
What Can Be Done to Combat Plastic Pollution in the Great Lakes?
As the study shows, plastic pollution in the Great Lakes has become a serious concern for the ecosystem and beyond. However, this does not need to continue. There are many ways that we can combat plastic pollution in our waterways:
- Reduce your use of plastic and plastic products as much as possible
- Properly dispose of your plastic waste by recycling or disposing of it in the trash
- Support organizations that are working to combat plastic pollution by volunteering or making donations
- Advocate for policies at the state and federal level that aim to reduce plastic pollution and promote proper disposal methods
FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions
Why is plastic pollution in the Great Lakes such a major concern?
The Great Lakes are a crucial ecosystem that supports millions of people and an abundance of marine life. Plastic pollution threatens the health of the Great Lakes and the creatures that live within it, and can ultimately harm human health as well.
What kinds of plastic debris are found in the Great Lakes?
Almost all kinds of plastic debris can be found in the Great Lakes, from large objects like plastic bags to tiny microplastics that are invisible to the naked eye. Microplastics are the most common type of plastic debris found in the Great Lakes.
What can individuals do to help combat plastic pollution in the Great Lakes?
Individuals can take several steps to combat plastic pollution in the Great Lakes, including reducing their use of plastic, properly disposing of plastic waste, supporting organizations working in this field, and advocating for policies that reduce plastic pollution.
What impact does plastic pollution have on marine life in the Great Lakes?
Plastic pollution can have a significant impact on marine life in the Great Lakes. Microplastics can be ingested by fish and other aquatic organisms, causing harm to their digestive systems and leading to starvation. Larger plastic debris can become entangled around the limbs and bodies of marine animals, causing injury and immobilization.
Are there any laws or regulations in place to combat plastic pollution in the Great Lakes?
There are a number of laws and regulations in place to address plastic pollution in the Great Lakes, but there is still much more work that needs to be done. Advocacy for further regulation can be supported by individuals to make a greater impact.
Conclusion
The study from the Rochester Institute of Technology in New York reveals the alarming levels of plastic pollution in the Great Lakes. It is critical that we take action to combat plastic pollution in order to protect the health of marine life in the Great Lakes and the millions of people who rely on it. With education and advocacy, we can make a significant difference in creating a cleaner and healthier environment for ourselves and future generations.
