Microplastic pollution is a growing risk to wildlife and humans in the Great Lakes ecosystem. These small plastic particles, which are less than 5 millimeters in size, come from many sources, including cosmetics, construction materials, synthetic clothing, and vehicle tire wear. The International Joint Commission’s (IJC) Great Lakes Science Advisory Board recently issued a report urging immediate action to monitor and prevent this widespread contamination by both the U.S. and Canadian governments. The report also highlights microplastics as an alarming presence in the lakes that can adversely affect aquatic life and human health.
Microplastics Everywhere
Microplastics have become pervasive in the Great Lakes ecosystem. According to Karen Kidd, a biology professor at McMaster University and member of the advisory board, these pollutants have been found in open waters, rivers that flow into the lakes, and even fish and aquatic insects. The widespread contamination shows the need for more comprehensive monitoring efforts.
Causes of Microplastic Pollution
The report found multiple potential sources of microplastics entering the Great Lakes. These sources include construction materials, fertilizers, litter, laundering synthetic textiles, cosmetics, and vehicle tire wear. All of these represent a growing accumulation of plastic particles in the lakes—a major challenge for pollution prevention.
Impact on Aquatic Life
The small size of microplastics makes it easier for aquatic species to ingest them. This can greatly impact their survival, growth, and reproduction. The persistent nature of many pollutants makes them a long-term threat, causing disruptions in food chains and threatening the health of fish populations.
Potential Threats to Human Health
Microplastic contamination is not limited to aquatic life; it can also pose a risk to humans. It can be ingested through drinking water sourced from lakes or through the consumption of contaminated fish. Scientists have found microplastics in human tissues, including the brain. These findings have raised questions about health impacts that necessitate more research.
Call for Policy Changes
Scientists like Karen Kidd are pushing for new policies to reduce the production and consumption of plastic and address the risks. Other recommendations include limiting the use of single-use plastics and fitting washing machines and dryers with filters to prevent plastic fibers from entering wastewater systems.
Designating Microplastics as a Chemical of Concern
The IJC’s advisory board has recommended that microplastics be declared a “Chemical of Mutual Concern.” This designation—which has immediate regulatory implications—would prioritize coordinated efforts between Canada and the U.S. to address microplastic pollution in the Great Lakes basin.
Lack of Coordinate Monitoring Efforts
Although it remains widespread across the Great Lakes, no basinwide system currently monitors or reports on microplastic pollution. Most monitoring initiatives remain project-based, which limits a comprehensive understanding of the problem.
Proposed Frameworks for Monitoring
In an effort to address this gap, researchers have proposed frameworks for standardized sampling and monitoring across the Great Lakes. These tools are intended to assist governments with a unified method for assessing and managing microplastic pollution more effectively.
Microplastics as an Indicator of Ecological Health
The report also recommends using microplastics as an indicator of ecological health. In doing so, researchers believe it would improve understanding of their prevalence and environmental impacts, potentially providing a foundation for targeted mitigation strategies.
Strategies for Cost-Effective Prevention
Karen Kidd insists that pollution prevention is always cheaper than cleaning up. Taking proactive measures could save high-cost resources while protecting ecosystems and public health.
Recommendations for Individuals
Individuals can also play a role in combating microplastic pollution by reducing their use of single-use plastics and implementing measures like installing filters on household appliances. These small steps can collectively contribute to reducing plastic waste entering waterways.
Future Research Directions
The report also urges follow-up studies on human exposure to microplastics within the Great Lakes basin. Insights into the impact of these pollutants on human health will be critical in shaping future policies and interventions aimed at reducing plastic waste in this vital ecosystem.
