Alarming Microplastic in Great Lakes Harm Wildlife, Human Health, Report Shows

A recent study raised concerns about the risks of microplastics in the Great Lakes, posting alarming threats to wildlife and humans. Researchers emphasized the importance of ending plastic in affecting the said lake.

Plastic pollution has been a significant issue, causing alarming problems in ecosystems and wildlife. The massive production could enter oceans and lakes.

Alarming microplastic in the Great Lakes

(Photo : VALERIE MACON/AFP via Getty Images)
Researchers raised concerns about the microplastic in the Great Lakes. Plastic pollution can harm animals and human health, urging immediate efforts to address the plastic problem in the lake. Meanwhile, keeping the ocean healthy will benefit humans and animals 

Animals can likely consume plastics, which can damage their digestive systems. In the Great Lakes, the recent report of over 22 million pounds of plastic go into the Great Lakes yearly.

About 40 million people get drinking water from the Great Lakes. The emergence of plastic in the lake could pose a dangerous threat to people. It is also home to different freshwater species unique to the lake. Some animals that can be seen are the Gray Wolf, Salmon, Black Bear, Moose and Mute Swan.

According to a recent report, the Great Lakes has suffered from microplastics. Researchers looked into the samples over the last ten years and discovered 90% microplastics.The alarming microplastic pollution in the Great Lakes could result in environmental consequences and damages if it continues.

Meanwhile, researchers noted that high risks in the 20% samples. Different microplastic debris enters the Great Lakes and its watersheds. It can come from wastewater treatment plants, vessels, shipping, humans and other land industries.

The report added the long-term impacts of large amounts of plastic in the Great Lakes. Plastic entanglement in marine animals can kill them due to infection or starvation.

In addition, plastic contaminants can harm the food web or sources of different aquatic species in the area. For instance, the report noted that plastic was discovered inside the gastrointestinal tract of double-crested cormorant chicks.

As a result, the urgent efforts of government and communities are critical to address the growing plastic pollution in the Great Lakes.

In recent reports, microplastic can also enter the bodies of sea lions, dolphins and whales when they consume prey with microplastic. Researchers noted that the sample got 68% microplastic particles in the said aquatic animals.

Effects of microplastic on humans

Humans can also suffer from microplastics when they eat fish with microplastics. Microplastic exposure  can affect human health, particularly the respiratory, immune and endocrine systems.

Irritation in the gastrointestinal tract, changes in the intestinal biome and abdominal pain are possible for humans. Microplastic can cause shortness of breath, sneezing and dizziness.People at risk are  children, older adults and people with medical conditions.

Also Read: Keeping Oceans Healthy: Five Habits People Can Help

Plastic pollution: The importance of immediate action

The growing production of plastic pollution can affect the Great Lakes and other bodies of water in the US. As a result, urgent action and environmental-friendly policies will help mitigate plastic pollution's impacts.

Furthermore, people should also become responsible by reducing their plastic in their day-to-day lives. Keeping the ocean healthy will benefit humans and animals.

Related Article: Alarming Whale Deaths in Northeast Blamed For Climate Change, Vessel Collisions, Fishing Gear Entanglement

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