A recent study on the Don River, a major urban river in Canada, has revealed a startling amount of microplastic pollution flowing into Lake Ontario each year. Researchers estimate that the river deposits the equivalent of about 18 cars’ worth of microplastics into the lake annually, surpassing the amount of larger plastic items being discharged.
Lead author Chelsea Rochman, an expert on plastics pollution at the University of Toronto, expressed surprise at the high levels of microplastics found in the river. These tiny plastic particles, ranging from the size of a pencil eraser to even smaller pieces, have become pervasive in various environments, posing risks to wildlife and potentially human health.
The study identified common sources of microplastics in the Don River, including construction foam, car tires, plastic pellets, and fragments from single-use plastics. Notably, wet wipes and plastic bags were among the most prevalent larger plastic items in the river, with tens of thousands of wipes accumulating in certain areas.
Rochman emphasized the importance of understanding and addressing these pollution sources, advocating for collaborative efforts with stakeholders to reduce plastic contamination. Measures such as preventing foam from construction sites, upgrading sewer infrastructure, and restricting certain single-use plastics could help mitigate the problem.
The study also highlighted the impact of Toronto’s aging combined sewer system, which contributes to pollution during heavy rainfalls. Efforts to modernize the system and minimize sewer overflow into the river are underway as part of a significant infrastructure upgrade initiative.
By taking proactive steps to curb plastic pollution and enhance environmental monitoring, researchers believe that the Don River ecosystem could gradually recover and thrive. This study sheds light on the urgent need for sustainable practices to safeguard water quality and wildlife in urban river systems.