Identifying Sources to Prevent Pollution

Microplastics come in a broad range of particle types, shapes, and sizes. This variety affects how microplastics move through the environment, and may influence their toxicity. Information on the chemistry and shape of particles can help pinpoint sources and options to reduce pollution.

The RMP prioritizes identifying major microplastics sources and contamination pathways, and recognizes that preventing microplastics from entering the environment is an optimal and cost-effective approach to protect water quality. The RMP has assisted in larger efforts to monitor microplastics in Bay water, sediment, prey fish, bivalves, and the adjacent ocean. This rich dataset underpins our understanding of microplastics in the Bay region, in other urban regions in California, and beyond.