The presence and potential environmental impacts of plastic contamination in fresh and marine waters, and terrestrial systems, is a prominent, emerging issue in the environmental sciences. Mentored by USI’s Dr. Paul Doss, Professor of Geology, two environmental science students developed research on the micro-plastic contamination of USI’s freshwater resource, Reflection Lake.
Beginning in 2020, Alexis Ludge ‘21, environmental science, attended a field course in the Lake Michigan basin, documenting micro-plastic contamination. Utilizing what she learned on the course, and what she learned from Doss, Ludge developed similar research for Reflection Lake. These samples concluded that it too was contaminated with micro-plastics like Lake Michigan.
In 2021, Sydra Parker ’21, environmental science, conducted a second phase of this research for GEOL499, a class specific for independent research projects. “This opportunity made me even more passionate about this field,” she says.
Parker continued with more methods and samples collected from various locations in Reflection Lake, taken at different times. The samples determined the water was contaminated with particles from buildings, parking lots and waste on campus. In the study, Doss and Parker found every kind of microplastic contamination in Reflection Lake.
“I think the most important takeaway is that the plastic contamination on our campus is significant, and probably more severe than most people realize,” Parker says. “Everyone can, however, contribute to mitigating this problem, with just a few simple lifestyle changes. I encourage USI students to be aware of how much one-time use plastic they are using daily...disposable plates/forks, Styrofoam cups, straws, etc. With just a little effort, everyone can help.”
Results from both phases of the study confirmed widespread micro-plastic contamination that were consistent with those in published research literature from similar freshwater environments in the country. Doss confirmed that the work followed the sampling strategies and methodology established by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.
To learn more about the research click here