Through an undergraduate project with Trout in the Trym, Bristol University Geography students have investigated microplastics and have shared their findings with us.
Read their presentation (pdf)
As expected the report confirms significant levels of microplastics in the Trym. There is a clear downstream rise in concentrations of microplastics. This is consistent with the river having had more distance over which to pick up microplastic residues including from litter, fly-tipping, sewage, fibres from washing machines from clothes and road runoff (tyre fibres).
The report suggests additional analysis going forward so different types of microplastic can be identified – helping focus in on the actual sources. If we get approached by the University next year for a project we will encourage them to go down that route.
The report justifies our efforts to take plastic rubbish out of the water and pick litter up from surrounding green spaces. By doing this we are making a difference.