UBC Microplastics Seminar Series

The Multi-Dimensionality of Microplastics – and How That Influences Their Fate and Effects in Aquatic Ecosystems

Dr. Chelsea M. Rochman

Assistant Professor
Department of Ecology and Evolutionary Biology
University of Toronto
https://eeb.utoronto.ca/profile/rochman-chelsea-m/

Friday, October 15
9-10 am PST

Please use the Zoom link below to join:
https://ubc.zoom.us/j/68185451284?pwd=TW96Ukc4Sk5pbXBqM2NxRUthQm93UT09

Abstract: Today, we are inundated with media about ubiquitous contamination of microplastic in our global ecosystems. Over the last decade, the amount of research and attention regarding the topic has elevated microplastic pollution to the global stage – setting priorities for research and policy. The story of microplastic pollution began in the remote central gyres of the oceans. Now we know that plastic debris is ubiquitous across all oceans, ecosystems, habitats and food webs – including in seafood and sea salt. In addition to understanding contamination, researchers have expanded their breadth of questioning towards the sources, fate, transformations and effects of plastic pollution. A deeper understanding has revealed the many ways in which plastic debris interacts with planetary cycles and affects physical and biological processes. This talk will provide an overview of microplastics and share recent research to better understand the fate and transport of microplastics in food webs (e.g., whether microplastics bioaccumulate and biomagnify) and how microplastics and their associated chemicals impact ecosystems across all levels of biological organization.

Watch the recorded event here.