GLOBAL MICROPLASTICS INITIATIVE
What are microplastics and why does it matter?
Microplastics are plastic particles from 5mm in size down microscopic particles that are virtually invisible to the naked eye. They are distributed all over the oceans of the world even into the most remote areas.
While some of the effects of larger plastic items are obvious on seabirds, turtles and other marine life, less is known about the effects of micro plastics on marine life.
The levels of microplastics in the oceans will continue to rise unless we take action to limit the amounts of plastics that find a way into our oceans.
Find out more about the the Global Microplastic initiative here
Microplastics are plastic particles from 5mm in size down microscopic particles that are virtually invisible to the naked eye. They are distributed all over the oceans of the world even into the most remote areas.
While some of the effects of larger plastic items are obvious on seabirds, turtles and other marine life, less is known about the effects of micro plastics on marine life.
The levels of microplastics in the oceans will continue to rise unless we take action to limit the amounts of plastics that find a way into our oceans.
Find out more about the the Global Microplastic initiative here
How Adventure Science Works
Andy will be taking a sample of seawater as he sails into some of the most remote locations on the planet.
The samples will be sent to marine scientist Abbey Barrows in Stonington, Maine, USA where they are dried out over a .45 micron filter. The particles are then painstakingly sorted and counted under a 40X microscope.
You don't have to sail around the world to be a part of Global Plastic Initiative you can even collect specimens from your local stream or creek. Check it out here
The samples will be sent to marine scientist Abbey Barrows in Stonington, Maine, USA where they are dried out over a .45 micron filter. The particles are then painstakingly sorted and counted under a 40X microscope.
You don't have to sail around the world to be a part of Global Plastic Initiative you can even collect specimens from your local stream or creek. Check it out here