Shoreline variables influencing microplastic accumulation in Lake Champlain

Conference Year

January 2020

Abstract

Microplastics enter waterways through industrial and urban runoff, wastewater from washing synthetic fibers, and the breakdown of single-use plastics. The plastics can harm wildlife, lower lakefront property values, and accumulate in consumed fish. Some areas of Lake Champlain have more microplastic accumulation than others. We look at a number of shoreline features to identify connections between the lake shore structure and accumulation of microplastic debris. The research will be used to direct volunteer cleanup efforts by the environmental nonprofit, the Rozalia Project.

Primary Faculty Mentor Name

Laura Edling

Secondary Mentor Name

Jeffrey Hughes

Faculty/Staff Collaborators

Charlotte Brodie (co-researcher), Ashley Novella (co-researcher), Keegan Wallace (co-researcher)

Status

Undergraduate

Student College

Rubenstein School of Environmental and Natural Resources

Program/Major

Natural Resources

Primary Research Category

Food & Environment Studies

Abstract only.

Share

COinS
 

Shoreline variables influencing microplastic accumulation in Lake Champlain

Microplastics enter waterways through industrial and urban runoff, wastewater from washing synthetic fibers, and the breakdown of single-use plastics. The plastics can harm wildlife, lower lakefront property values, and accumulate in consumed fish. Some areas of Lake Champlain have more microplastic accumulation than others. We look at a number of shoreline features to identify connections between the lake shore structure and accumulation of microplastic debris. The research will be used to direct volunteer cleanup efforts by the environmental nonprofit, the Rozalia Project.