Schedule of Events

Microplastic contamination of the world’s ecosystem has been documented in many studies overthe past two decades. This study focused on the possibility that microplastics could make theirway into root vegetables that are constantly in contact with the soil. The presence ofmicroplastics in root vegetables was proven using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy onsamples collected from three, organically grown, root vegetables from various sources. Thisstudy strongly suggests the prevalence of micro-contaminants in a common component of thehuman diet. The spectra were compared with a commercial library of standards from AgilentTechnologies. Peaks were assigned for functional group recognition. These spectra matchedmaterials such as alginic acid, polystyrene, fiberglass, and butadiene rubber. Anthropogeniccontamination of these food groups could signify a major cause of disease now and in the future.

The presence of microplastics in the environment has become an increasing concern, mainly in regions where coastal and agricultural activities contribute to contamination. This study investigates and compares the impact and extent of microplastic and microfiber pollution in two different locations.  We choose to compare the Channel Islands Harbor, a center for recreational and commercial maritime activity and the Santa Clara Riverbed, which passes through farmland right before draining into the Pacific Ocean near the Ventura Harbor.   Our goal in examining sand sediment from the two sites is to identify the quantities and type of the micro contaminants found.
    Sediment samples were collected at high tides at both sites using Rose Bengal stain to differentiate between synthetic and organic microfibers.  Samples were then vacuum filtered to isolate the contaminants and analyzed with a Nikon dissecting microscope and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy.
    Initial results indicate that there is a greater concentration of microplastics in the Santa Clara Riverbed, suggesting that they are likely brought in by irrigation systems, textile waste, and agricultural runoff. In contrast, microfiber contamination was more prevalent in the Channel Islands Harbor, potentially due to boating activity, urban runoff and marine infrastructure. The findings draw attention to the different sources of pollution that impact inland river systems as opposed to coastal ones, highlighting the necessity of more studies to create efficient mitigation plans and legislative actions.