Microplastics in Drinking Water and Fish
Over 40 million people in the United States and Canada rely on the Great Lakes for their drinking water. Unfortunately, each glass of treated lake water contains tiny particles known as microplastics, composed of toxic chemicals tied to cancer and other diseases. Fish from these lakes, popular in Midwestern fish fries and a crucial part of the diet for Indigenous tribes, immigrant populations, and communities of color, are also contaminated. Despite this, there is no regulation to address the pollution from microplastics, while manufacturers plan to substantially increase plastic production in the U.S.
Industry Response and Accountability
The Chicago Tribune is investigating the plastics issue, focusing on the Great Lakes, the largest fresh surface water source globally. Industry leaders often shift the blame to consumers, employing strategies similar to those used by Big Tobacco, according to a Tribune review of numerous government, scientific, and industry documents. Despite acknowledging the dangers of plastics, many powerful companies downplay the risks and exaggerate recycling capabilities.
Health Concerns Linked to Microplastics
Research indicates that microplastics, particles no larger than a grain of rice, persist in humans and animals, posing risks akin to triggering heart and brain diseases. Scientists are exploring whether microplastics might also lead to diseases such as Parkinson’s and certain cancers, affect fertility, cause premature births, and impact child development. For example, researchers at the University of Illinois have been studying the effects of plastics-related chemicals on over 400 children since pre-birth.
Widespread Microplastic Pollution
Microplastics infiltrate every area of the Great Lakes, from areas near fossil fuel plants off Lake Huron, north of Detroit, to the pristine Apostle Islands in Lake Superior. The Chicago Tribune is documenting the threat through its series “Great Waste in the Great Lakes,” focusing on the unseen health and environmental risks to communities relying on these critical water resources.
Efforts to Combat Plastic Pollution
From innovative use of flax in clothing and cars to employing robotic skimmers and advocating for stronger laws, researchers, activists, and volunteers are challenging an industry determined to increase plastic production. Their goal is to mitigate the overwhelming issue of plastic pollution.
Regulatory Steps in Illinois
As part of these efforts, Illinois has introduced a law requiring polluters to report spills of industrial plastic pellets, known as nurdles. These nurdles are a growing contamination source in the Great Lakes and Mississippi River watersheds. Companies involved in their manufacture, use, or transport must develop strategies to control nurdle runoff in storms, marking Illinois as the first state to officially designate these plastic pieces as pollution.