Microplastics: The Not So ‘Micro’ Problem in Our World’s Oceans and Beaches

In the last decade, a new word has come to the forefront of almost every ocean and coastal-related news story: microplastics. What are microplastics and why are they considered one of the top global environmental problems of today? How did they get so out of control? What are the potential impacts of microplastics and is there a viable solution?  

Dr. Gabriela Bradt is a marine biologist and mother of three from Stratham, NH. She is Fisheries Specialist for NH Sea Grant and UNH Cooperative Extension where she works closely with fishermen and the seafood industry on direct marketing of locally harvested seafood and other fisheries related issues. She is also heavily involved in outreach and education regarding Marine Debris/Pollution issues on the Seacoast. She has been researching and monitoring microplastics on New Hampshire beaches since 2014.