Plastic pollution in the environment has become a major problem in the last several decades. In addition to the easily visible plastic debris, smaller pieces of plastic, termed microplastics, are found nearly everywhere and interact with organisms at the base of aquatic food chains. There are more than a trillion microplastic particles and fibers in Georgia’s coastal waters alone, according to an estimate by a team of researchers at the University of Georgia Skidaway Institute of Oceanography. These microplastics are ingested by local marine organisms, with uncertain health effects.

A microscopic view of a microfiber.

University of Georgia Skidaway Institute of Oceanography scientist Jay Brandes has been investigating microplastic pollution on the Georgia coast and will present an Evening @ Skidaway program to discuss both the longer term trends in plastic pollution as well as what reasonable steps might be taken to reduce it in our local environment. The program will be presented on Tuesday, October 9, in the McGowan Library on the University of Georgia Skidaway Marine Science Campus (10 Ocean Science Circle, Savannah, GA 31411).The event will begin with a reception at 6:15 p.m., followed by the program at 7 p.m.

Plastic pollution in the environment has become a major problem in the last several decades. In addition to the easily visible plastic debris, smaller pieces of plastic, termed microplastics, are found nearly everywhere and interact with organisms at the base of aquatic food chains. There are more than a trillion microplastic particles and fibers in Georgia’s coastal waters alone, according to an estimate by a team of researchers at the University of Georgia Skidaway Institute of Oceanography. These microplastics are ingested by local marine organisms, with uncertain health effects.

The program is open to the public, and admission is free. Space is limited. To reserve a seat, please call (912) 598-2325 or email mike.sullivan@skio.uga.edu.