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Simple, Accessible River-Based Field Investigation of Riverine Microplastics

Author(s): Sarah Rankin Gordon

Colorado Mountain College

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Summary:
Scientists have discovered that microplastic pollution is ubiquitous in the environment, but the small size of these microscopic pollutants prohibits most people from recognizing their prevalence. This river-based field lesson will introduce…

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Scientists have discovered that microplastic pollution is ubiquitous in the environment, but the small size of these microscopic pollutants prohibits most people from recognizing their prevalence. This river-based field lesson will introduce environmental science students to this emerging environmental concern, and encourages them to explore microplastics in their local waterways with sample collection, density separation and field-based microscopy. Students will appreciate the opportunity to connect to this topic from anywhere in the world, allowing them to see microplastics with their own eyes and without the use of sophisticated equipment. In addition, this lesson helps students recognize their own personal impact on microplastic pollution and identify ways to reduce their creation of microplastics.

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Summary of the Lesson

This lab provides an opportunity for science students to apply the scientific method in a real world setting to investigate whether or not their local river, creek or stream contains microplastics. And because this lab is designed as a field lesson, the use of expensive laboratory supplies or scientific equipment is not required. Students will learn how microplastics are transported to riverine environments, and their environmental impacts to ecosystems and public health. This lesson is designed to help students connect to an emerging environmental concern, so student will also be asked to identify their own personal impact on microplastic pollution.

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