Microplastics in the South West Pacific and Southern Ocean

Alexander Sidelev

(Microplastics, N2O and tritium sampler)

Microplastics pollution is one of the most misunderstood ocean phenomena in the modern world. While hearing the word, microplastic, most people assume that it is simply visible bits of trash floating in the ocean. While to a certain degree such statement is true, the plastics that are the focus of our research require a microscope to be viewed. Such small pieces of plastic also have a peculiar water column distribution. Most of the polymers used in production of plastics are less dense than water, allowing for a greater viscosity of microplastics though the vertical water column and a significant spread across the surface layer. Such distribution creates a problem magnitudes greater than simply having trash in the ocean waters. These small pieces of plastic harm the trophic structure of plankton and pose a great threat to all marine life. Our goal is to collect a substantial amount of empirical data to improve computer models of microplastic presence. The greatest source of error in any numerical model is incorrect assumptions due to a lack of accurate empirical data. The samples collected will provide a basis for which a model of the region could be built. A better model will provide a greater understanding of microplastic pollution and an easier way to convey the issue to the general public. Without direct observations of microplastics like the ones we collected here, the world will be reluctant to do anything about the problem. By collecting samples and presenting the data we hope to improve outreach and better our general understanding of the dangers plastics pose to the ocean environment. 

 (sometimes we catch krill in addition to microplastics)

(Microplastic net)

 (we deploy over the side while the boat is on station. The current pulls water through the net and we collect anything that is to large to pass through our fine mesh net)