Science AMA Series: Hi, we are NOAA scientists Amy Uhrin and Carlie Herring. We’re here to talk about microplastics in our ocean and Great Lakes--what they are, where they come from, and what you can do to help. Ask Us Anything!

Hi, we are NOAA scientists Amy Uhrin and Carlie Herring and we work to understand and reduce the impacts of trash and other marine debris on our ocean and Great Lakes. Have you been hearing about microplastics in the ocean and wondering what are microplastics? Where do they come from? What’s the big problem with microplastics? And what can I do to help? Of all the marine debris that ends up in these important water bodies, plastics are the most common. While plastics can range from consumer items like plastic bottles and bags to abandoned fishing nets, they all eventually break down into smaller and smaller plastics called microplastics. These tiny plastics can have a big impact on our environment. We’re here from 1:00 to 3:00 p.m. ET today to answer your questions about microplastics in our ocean and what you can do to help. Ask Us Anything! Thank you for joining us today and for your interest in research on microplastics! Unfortunately, we are out of time for today. If you are interested in learning more about microplastics and marine debris research, explore some of these online resources: Plastics in the Ocean NOAA Marine Debris Program Listen to podcast with Amy Uhrin on microplastics Current research