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!
Abstract
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