From Sewage to the Ocean: Microplastics in Marine Ecosystems of BC

Contamination of marine ecosystems with microplastics (particles <5mm) is recognized as significant problem. There is limited information available as to its origin, but much is thought to originate from land-based activities (wastewater effluent, run-off, rivers the productivity of fisheries, and reduce the quality and commercial value of seafood, valued at $1 billion annually in BC. Moreover, reduced coastal ecosystem health directly affects ecotourism, valued at $2 billion annually in BC. To identify sources of microplastic in the NE Pacific Ocean, the Vancouver Aquarium is developing a microplastics research capacity. The proposed project will establish a collaborative relationship with UBC’s Department of Civil Engineering. The Vancouver Aquariums will benefit directly from the collaboration with the UBC Department of Civil Engineering as it gains access to state of the art laboratories and the UBC pilot wastewater treatment plant.

Faculty Supervisor:

Eric Hall

Student:

Partner:

Ocean Wise

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Arts, entertainment and recreation; Education; Other services (except public administration); Professional, scientific and technical services

University:

The University of British Columbia

Program: