PLASTIC IN FRESHWATER
Tracking Microplastics in the Neuse River
This study examines microplastic distribution across the Neuse River, identifying the best sampling methods for North Carolina waterways and watershed contributions to debris. Conducted in partnership with NC State, UNC Wilmington, Sound Rivers, and funded by NC Sea Grant and NOAA, samples were collected from 15 sites every other month from August 2020 to June 2021. Plastic Ocean Project analyzed the microplastics using micro-FTIR. The findings were published in Science of the Total Environment (Vol. 787, 2023).
PLASTIC IN FRESHWATER
Improving Human and Ecosystem Health through Microplastic Reduction
Plastic Ocean Project is partnering with Waterkeepers Carolina, UNC Wilmington, and Duke Law and Policy Clinic to analyze plastics in freshwater and sediment samples from 15 North Carolina watersheds. Funded by the NC Department of Justice Environmental Enhancement Grant, the data will guide placement of Bandalong Bandit Litter Traps. Sampling began in February 2021 and occurs every other month; we are analyzing microplastics with our FTIR instrument and are already uncovering surprising results.
PLASTIC IN SEA WATER
Comparing Plankton vs. Microplastic Ratios between Samples from the N. Pacific Gyre
Algalita Marine Research and Education, founded by Captain Charles Moore—the sailor who exposed the Great Pacific Garbage Patch—has partnered with our lab for sample analysis. We are sorting their North Pacific Gyre samples to separate plankton, natural debris, and plastics, then measuring each group to determine plastic-to-plankton ratios. Using our FTIR-ATR, we also identify the types of microplastics present.
PLASTIC INGESTION BY ANIMALS
Evaluating Microplastic Ingestion in Stranded Bottlenose Dolphins (Tursiops truncatus)
Plastic Ocean Project is partnering with the NC Marine Mammal Stranding Network to investigate whether stranded bottlenose dolphins ingest microplastics and how those plastics enter their systems. During necropsies, dolphin digestive tracts are collected and later processed at UNCW’s Oriole Burevitch Lab, where we isolate potential plastic particles. These particles are then analyzed in our lab using FTIR-ATR, helping us determine plastic types and whether microplastics may be entering dolphins through their prey. We’ve completed analysis on one dolphin and are continuing to work through additional specimens with our student team.
PLASTIC INGESTION BY ANIMALS
North American River Otters (Lontra canadensis): is plastic a new part of their diet?
After hearing about our grizzly bear plastic-ingestion research, long-time supporter Jack Spruill wondered whether North American river otters might face similar risks. Living along Topsail Creek, he collected otter scat and sent two samples to our lab in 2021. By spring 2022, FTIR/ATR analysis confirmed the presence of ingested plastics, prompting us to pursue further research on otters in the Topsail Creek area. We are now seeking funding to continue this work.
STUDENT PROJECTS
Fatal Attraction: The Effects of Plastic and Biodegradable Products on their Surrounding Environments
Sophomore researcher Logan Tamadon studied how different plastics and biodegradable materials break down in marine and freshwater environments. Beginning in September 2021, he submerged test materials in the Intracoastal Waterway and Bradley Creek, monitoring their degradation throughout the year. His work earned awards at local, regional, and state science fairs.
Noticing macrofauna on his samples, Logan expanded his research to the “plastisphere”—the microbial communities that form on degrading plastics. With support from UNCW’s Dr. Bradley Tolar and microbiology student Allie Sells, he examined microorganisms on wet mounts and cultured bacteria from his samples to identify what thrives on these materials. Logan hopes to pinpoint bacteria that help break down plastics and is seeking support for additional lab equipment.
STUDENT PROJECTS
UNCW Marine debris course
Since Fall 2016, POP has partnered with UNC Wilmington to offer undergraduate and graduate students a new course, Marine Debris – EVS 495/582. Students conduct semester-long research projects and explore a variety of methodologies and technologies for analyzing local plastic debris. Students also participate in offshore excursions to collect plastic debris from the Gulf Stream. After the semester is completed, students present their work to the class with the opportunity to present a poster at the Ocean Advocacy Workshop.
