Summary of Celebrate World Oceans Day by Saying ‘No’ to Microplastics!:
The Detroit Zoo has implemented water bottle refill stations to reduce the use of single-use plastics and prevent microplastics from entering waterways. Microplastics, tiny plastic particles, can harm wildlife and negatively affect human health. The accumulation of microplastics in marine organisms can lead to blockages, ulcers, and starvation. Microplastics can also contain toxic chemicals that can be ingested by marine organisms and eventually make their way into the food chain, posing a risk to human consumption. The Great Lakes region is particularly vulnerable to the spread of microplastics, as plastic fragments travel through the waterways and eventually reach the Atlantic Ocean. It is important to take action to reduce plastic consumption and advocate for stronger recycling efforts and plastic usage limits. The Detroit Zoo has already taken steps to minimize its impact by eliminating single-use plastic straws, lids, and bottles.
Celebrate World Oceans Day by Saying ‘No’ to Microplastics!
– More than 70 percent of the Earth’s surface is covered by water
– Microplastics are tiny, minuscule plastic particles that infiltrate any environment
– Microplastics harm marine life and have potential impacts on human health
– Microplastics can enter the food chain through marine organisms and impact human consumption
– Michigan’s Great Lakes area demonstrates the interconnectedness of microplastic pollution
– Taking a thoughtful approach to plastic consumption can positively impact water systems
– The Detroit Zoo has taken steps toward a more sustainable future, including the elimination of single-use plastics
Did you know that more than 70 percent of the Earth’s surface is covered by water? As residents of Michigan, a state with beautiful lakes and rivers, we must consider our impact on water quality, pollution, and aquatic ecosystems. While we may focus on freshwater systems, realizing that our actions can impact water quality in the Great Lakes and even further afield is important.
One issue that many of us unknowingly contribute to is the accumulation of microplastics in our waterways. Microplastics are tiny plastic particles that can infiltrate virtually any environment, including the deepest parts of the ocean. These particles are produced by reducing plastic into miniature versions and can be intentionally added to soaps and scrubs or formed through exposure to the sun and water movement.
The accumulation of microplastics is alarming due to their damaging effects on wildlife and their potential impact on human health. Marine life can suffer physical harm from ingesting microplastics, leading to blockages, ulcers, and other internal injuries. This can result in severe malnutrition, starvation, and even death. Additionally, microplastics can contain or absorb toxic chemicals, which can then be released into the tissues of marine organisms, potentially causing toxicity and disrupting physiological functions.
There is growing concern about the potential for microplastics to enter the food chain and impact human health. Seafood, such as fish, shellfish, and mollusks, is an important source of protein and essential nutrients for many people. However, if these organisms have ingested microplastics, there is a risk that humans may indirectly consume these particles when consuming contaminated seafood. Once ingested, microplastics can potentially have adverse health effects.
Michigan’s Great Lakes area is an excellent example of the interconnectedness of microplastic pollution. Plastic travels from local watersheds to the Great Lakes and gradually breaks into smaller fragments. Microplastics can easily hitch a ride in this region’s waterways and flow from west to east, eventually reaching the Atlantic Ocean through the St. Lawrence River.
To address this issue, we must work together and take a thoughtful approach to our plastic consumption. This means considering products with minimal packaging, supporting stronger recycling efforts, limiting plastic usage in manufacturing, and participating in beach clean-up events. However, it’s also crucial that we advocate for regulations on large industrial manufacturers at a national and global level. Through advocacy and voting, communities can achieve significant change and create a brighter and cleaner future for all.
The Detroit Zoo is leading by example in lessening our impact on aquatic ecosystems. Over 10 years ago, the zoo stopped carrying single-use plastic straws and lids and has since taken many more steps toward a more sustainable future. Plastic bags were eliminated at gift shops, and plastic bottle sales, previously the largest concession item, were replaced with reusable water bottles and water bottle refill stations.
We invite you to join us at the Detroit Zoo to celebrate World Oceans Day, which falls on June 8th. Learn more about the ocean and its importance through our educational programming on Saturday, June 10th. Together, we can make a difference and say ‘no’ to microplastics, ensuring a healthier future for our oceans and the species that depend on them.
