Even Protected Florida Wetlands Can't Escape Microplastic Pollution

Even A Protected Florida Wetland Isn't Safe From Microplastic Pollution

Spruce Bluff Preserve sits along the St. Lucie River in Port St. Lucie, Florida, known for hiking trails and birdwatching, the kind of protected natural area people think of as untouched by pollution. The post Even A Protected Florida Wetland Isn’t Safe From Microplastic Pollution appeared first on StudyFinds.

Even protected Florida wetlands can't escape microplastic pollution

Microplastics are turning up almost everywhere—from oceans and rivers to soils and sediments—yet far less is known about what happens when they enter freshwater wetlands. Often overlooked in favor of marine and coastal environments, wetlands can act as both pathways and traps for microplastics, potentially capturing and retaining pollution.

Even Protected Florida Wetlands Can’t Escape Microplastic Pollution

Microplastics aren’t just a problem for oceans. Researchers found these tiny plastic particles in 95% of sediment samples from a protected freshwater wetland along Florida’s St. Lucie River. Nearly half were fibers, suggesting that synthetic textiles and other everyday materials may be contributing to plastic pollution in the preserve. Concentrations were highest near the river and a flood-control canal, suggesting water movement helps transport and concentrate pollution. Findings from the s