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Microplastics in Western NY River Ecosystems
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Researchers assessed microplastic pollution in river ecosystems of Western New York, characterizing particle abundance, types, and distribution across sampling sites. The study provides regional baseline data and highlights urban and agricultural land use as contributors to freshwater microplastic contamination.
The occurrence of microplastics in marine and freshwater systems has been an area of increasing concern due to its potential negative impact on aquatic organisms and human health. With continuously growing patches of plastics in oceans and the Great Lakes, we must understand the mechanisms that move these materials from the urban landscape into aquatic ecosystems. We investigated the transport and storage of microplastics in 5 streams draining into Lake Erie from Buffalo, NY. The streams were sampled from 2020-2023 to determine the amount of plastic being transported. Samples underwent chemical digestion, filtration, and staining with Nile Red, and were then viewed using fluorescent microscopes so individual micro plastics could be counted. This research provides information to aid ongoing conservation efforts and helps distinguish future experiments to test the effects of microplastics on aquatic organisms.
More Papers Like This
Distribution and risk assessment of microplastic pollution in a rural river system near a wastewater treatment plant, hydro-dam, and river confluence
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This study measured microplastic pollution in a rural river in New York State and found elevated concentrations near a wastewater treatment plant, a hydroelectric dam, and a river junction. Even in this mostly forested and agricultural area, all sites were polluted with microplastics at concerning levels. The findings demonstrate that microplastic contamination is not just an urban problem and can affect rural waterways that communities depend on.
Quantification & Source Identification of Microplastic Pollution in the Hudson River
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This report quantified microplastic pollution in the Hudson River, identifying sources and characterizing the types and concentrations of plastic particles. The study was prepared for New York State environmental authorities and provides baseline data for monitoring and managing microplastic contamination in one of the northeastern United States' most important river systems.
Micro-plastic Pollution: A Comparative Survey of Wastewater Effluent in New York
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Students from two State University of New York campuses surveyed microplastic concentrations in wastewater treatment plant effluents in New York State, testing the hypothesis that WWTPs are a significant pathway for plastic particles entering waterways. The collaborative study provides regional data on how treatment plant discharges contribute to microplastic pollution.
Abundance, Distribution and Drivers of Microplastic Contaminant in Urban River Environments
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Researchers surveyed microplastic distribution in urban river environments and identified key drivers of accumulation hotspots, finding that land use, hydrology, and infrastructure factors concentrated microplastics at predictable locations that could inform targeted management interventions.
Characterizing Microplastic Pollution in New York State Waterways
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Researchers investigating microplastic pollution in New York State waterways found that plastic fragments — not just the spherical microbeads from personal care products — were the dominant form of contamination. The findings highlight how diverse and widespread microplastic sources are, complicating efforts to reduce their entry into freshwater systems.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.