ASU Study Reveals Swimsuits as Major Source of Microplastic Pollution

A recent study by Arizona State University researchers has uncovered a surprising contributor to microplastic Pollution in recreational waters: swimwear. Published in the journal Water Emerging Contaminants & Nanoplastics, the study found that swimsuits significantly increase microplastic levels in pools and nearby rivers like the Salt River.

Source: AYA/YouTube

The research team collected water samples from the Salt River at various times—both when it was open to the public and when it was closed. They discovered a nearly tenfold increase in microplastics following peak visitor hours. “Before, there were around 20,000 to 27,000 microplastics per cubic meter of water,” explained study author Kanchana Chandrakanthan. “At peak activity time, it spiked to about 222,000.”

Similar patterns emerged in swimming pools, where microplastic counts surged during high swimmer activity. Pierre Herckes, an ASU professor and co-author of the study, noted that the types of plastics found pointed directly to swimwear. “We didn’t really see rubber materials,” Herckes said. “Both the shape of fibers and the chemical nature of nylon indicate these microplastics are mostly from swimsuits.”

The findings highlight a little-known environmental issue: the shedding of microplastics from synthetic fabrics used in swimwear. As swimmers move, friction causes tiny fibers to break off and enter the water. Over time, these microplastics can harm aquatic ecosystems and potentially affect human health through the water supply.

This study underscores the need for increased awareness and action to address microplastic Pollution. Possible solutions include developing swimwear from eco-friendly materials that shed fewer fibers and implementing guidelines to minimize microplastic release in recreational waters.

Understanding the sources of microplastic Pollution is crucial for environmental sustainability. As more people flock to rivers and pools for recreation, identifying and mitigating these hidden pollutants become ever more important.

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