Microplastics

Every waterway in North Carolina is impacted by plastic pollution and plastics comprise the bulk of marine debris. These plastics break down over time into microplastics, which are an ecosystem and public health issue. Though we see evidence of plastic pollution on a daily basis, very little is known about the amount of microplastic pollution in the state’s waterways.

Waterkeepers Carolina with its member organizations and Waterkeepers launched a two-year study, "Improving Human and Ecosystem Health through Microplastic Reduction," in February 2021 to collect surface water and sediment samples to understand better the volume of microplastics and macroplastic pollution in North Carolina's streams, rivers, lakes, and bays. This collaborative project stretches across 10 nonprofit environmental organizations.

Project partners include UNC-Wilmington, Duke Law & Policy Clinic and Plastic Ocean Project.

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Project Timeline

  • January - December 2021
    The project launches on January 15, 2021, with the first samples collected in February. Waterkeepers will collect surface water and soil samples from two locations. Based on the initial sample collection, we will start to prioritize potential locations for in-stream litter collectors.

  • January - December 2022
    Waterkeepers will begin the process of installing in-stream litter collection devices. This will be coupled with educational outreach to promote better stormwater management and individual behavior changes. Waterkeepers will establish and train teams of volunteers to clean, survey, and maintain litter collectors quarterly.

  • January - March 2023
    The final report with all data to make conclusive statements on assessments of microplastics in North Carolina’s surface waters will be published.

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About the Litter Collectors

The Bandalong Bandit Litter Trap is designed to capture floating litter in smaller waterways. Its lightweight and portable design will make it easier to place. Best of all, it won’t interfere with aquatic wildlife movement or affect the flow of the water.