Researchers investigate microplastics in D.C.'s waterways

These tiny plastic fragments threaten the river's quality, sediments and aquatic life. Their goal: To helpregulate the use and disposal of plastics, including single-use plastics, a major culprit behind microplastics. Their first findings from the Nash Run stream have just been published and tell us more about what's going on with microplastics in D.C.'s waterways.

It reveals the quantity and type of microplastics in water and sediments." Balestra's former student, Elisa Davey, participated in the research and is lead author for the paper published in the journalNash Run, which flows through the neighborhoods of Deanwood and Kenilworth in Southeast D.C., is one of a half-dozen sites of river tributaries in D.C. and in Maryland that the team samples for microplastics. They always find microplastics, no matter the season or sample site.

Microplastics are remnants of large plastics broken up into smaller pieces, or products such as microbeads that are found in many cosmetics. They are found in freshwater and oceans and animals, such as clams, oysters and fish. They have been found in humans, as evidenced by studies showing them in our lungs or in the placentas of newborns.health risks

"For me, the takeaway from the research is this: Here's yet another challenge that these animals may face in this river. We make strides in improving the river's health; then there are setbacks," MacAvoy said.In addition to microplastics, researchers detected another pollutant in the sediment, three chemicals, phenanthrene, fluoranthene and pyrene, also known as PAHs. More research will need to be conducted to assess the sources of these chemicals.

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