Microplastics: The invisible agents in and around us

Like we need one more thing to worry about. Microplastics are showing up in high levels in Middle Tennessee.

There’s quite a bit of environmental regulation that is loosening at the moment. A lot of scientific research has also been on the chopping block for the Trump Administration. But microplastics is an area where money is flowing like never before — for both research and cleanup.

If you’re thinking, “what do we even know about microplastics right now?” There’s a lot we don’t know, but we do know they’re everywhere. And these particles left behind by all the plastic we use are especially heavy in Tennessee waterways.

The Cumberland River is testing at the top end of American rivers while The Tennessee River’s levels of microplastics are off the charts. How concerned should we be? We’re going to try to figure that out with some experts and talk about cutting back on how much plastic we’re using. We also have the phones open — and tee up the livestream. Give us a call at 615-760-2000 or watch on YouTube.

This episode was produced by Josh Deepan. 

Guests:

• Dr. Eva Parker, VUMC Dermatologist
• Ryan Jackwood, Harpeth River Conservancy Director of Watershed Science
• Stephanie Roach, Urban Green Lab Assistant Director of Special Initiatives