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The Ithacan
25° Ithaca, NY
The Student News Site of Ithaca College

The Ithacan
The Student News Site of Ithaca College

The Ithacan
According to a National Geographic encyclopedia entry, microplastics are plastic pieces that are less than 5 millimeters in diameter that degrade from larger plastics. Primary microplastics come from microfibers from clothing and textiles, and secondary microplastics come from particles that break down from larger, often single-use plastics like bags or water bottles. The entry states that microplastic particles are often so small that they easily pass through water filtration systems and end up in waterways and the ocean. 

IC Toxicology Lab investigates microplastics in Cayuga Lake

By Caroline Grass, Staff Writer • November 11, 2021
The IC Toxicology Lab estimates that Cayuga Lake has 100,000,000 microplastic particles in it, which can harm aquatic life and people. 
Susan Allen is researching the spread of microplastics in Cayuga Lake. Allen’s current research project is focused on the effect of microplastics on life in the southern end of Cayuga Lake. 

Professor researches microplastics in Cayuga Lake

By Alex Hartzog, Staff Writer • September 11, 2019
Susan Allen, professor in the Department of Environmental Studies and Science at Ithaca College is researching microplastics in Cayuga Lake.
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