Microplastics are a growing problem worldwide, and their effects are only starting to be understood. Our goal was to produce a beach monitoring method that can help community groups in Iceland track changes in microplastic pollution. We tested multiple methods from previous studies and combined aspects into one method that is time efficient, simple, and low cost. We also developed an easy to use, consistent verification test. The final method is an ideal way for community scientists to monitor microplastics in beach sand. To keep Iceland’s shores clean and marine ecosystems healthy, monitoring microplastics will be the first step in understanding plastic pollution.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Alexander, Tyra Del Bryn
• Strauss, Jason Scott
• Schroeder, Cecilia C.
• Buzzell, Alexis Taylor

Subject

• Environment
• Community
• Sustainability
• Learning

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-100918-071555

Keyword

• Climatic changes--Economic aspects
• Marine pollution
• Microplastics

Advisor

• Belz, Melissa

Year

• 2018

Center

• Reykjavik, Iceland Project Center - IQP

Sponsor

• WPI Interdisciplinary and Global Studies Division

Date created

• 2018-10-09

Location

• Reykjavik

Resource type

• Interactive Qualifying Project

Rights statement

• In Copyright