An estimated 10,000 tons of plastic pollution enter the Great Lakes each year. This talk will cover what we know about plastic in the Great Lakes, some science-based solutions, and ways to engage the public in reducing their plastics consumption.
Presentations
Plastic pollution in our Great Lakes: The science that can inform solutions
Dr. Chelsea Rochman, Assistant Professor in Ecology, University of Toronto
An estimated 10,000 tonnes of plastic pollution enter the Great Lakes each year. As a consequence, microplastic particles are found in Great Lakes surface water, sediments, and fish. This contamination extends to our local sportfish and drinking water. This talk will go over what we know about plastic in our Great Lakes and some science-based solutions.
Skip the Straw, Ban the Bag, Does it really work?
Jill Bartolotta, Extension Educator, Ohio Sea Grant
Susan Bixler, Extension and Outreach Assistant, Stone Lab
Have you ever wondered if the skipping and banning of single-use plastic items really works? Ohio Sea Grant and Stone Laboratory are working on several projects with Ohio businesses and consumers to Skip the Straw or Ban the Bag. We have spent the past two years working closely with businesses to phase out single-use plastics and educating consumers on the issue of plastic pollution. We will share highlights from these projects and discuss next steps.