The impact and change our foundation makes...
Microplastics and the threat to Lake Tahoe's ecosystems
The effort to rid microplastics
Lake Tahoe is one of the largest freshwater lakes in North America and is an important area for recreation, wildlife, and ecosystem health. The lake’s clear waters make it a popular destination for swimming, boating, and fishing; however, Tahoe’s popularity also means that it receives a lot of pollution from boats, swimmers, and other visitors.
One type of pollution that is particularly harmful to Tahoe’s ecosystem are microplastics. Microplastics are tiny pieces of plastic that are often found in cosmetics, personal care products, and even some types of clothing. These plastics can enter the environment when we wash our clothes or use these products, and they eventually make their way into lakes and other water bodies.
Microplastics are a problem in Tahoe because they can absorb pollutants like pesticides and chemicals from the water. They can also be eaten by fish and other wildlife, which can transfer these pollutants to the animals that we eat. Additionally, microplastics can act like sponges, soaking up toxins from the environment and concentrating them in one place. This can make these toxins more harmful to both humans and wildlife. Having said that, let us discuss the significance of removing microplastics in a lake environment.
Microplastics and the threat to Lake Tahoe's ecosystems
The effort to rid microplastics
Lake Tahoe’s legendary blue isn’t just skin-deep. We’re the Restoring the Lakes Depths Foundation, fighting microplastics and pollution to protect this fragile underwater world.
In 2018, studies revealed the presence of microplastics in Lake Tahoe. Unlike typical cases where wastewater is the culprit, litter is the primary source in Lake Tahoe. These microplastics pose a significant threat not only to marine life but also to human health.
Effects of Microplastics on marine life in Lake Tahoe
Harming the creatures that live in the lake...
Fish and other aquatic animals often mistake microplastics for food and end up ingesting them. This can cause digestive issues, reduced growth, and even death. Additionally, microplastics can absorb pollutants like pesticides and chemicals, which can then be passed on to the animals that eat them.
Making their way into our food supply...
If fish and other animals are eating microplastics, it stands to reason that we could end up consuming them as well. Studies have found microplastics in mussels, oysters, shrimp, and even table salt. While the effects of microplastics on human health are not yet known, it is safe to assume that they are not good for us.
Polluting our drinking water...
Lake Tahoe is a major source of drinking water for California and Nevada, and microplastics have been found in tap water samples from both states. While the levels of microplastics in our water are currently low, they are expected to increase as the pollution problem gets worse.
Harming the beauty of Lake Tahoe...
Microplastics are often mistaken for food by birds and other animals, which can lead to them becoming entangled in the plastic or ingesting it. This not only harms the animals but also pollutes the lake and makes it less enjoyable for humans.
Contributing to climate change...
Microplastics are made from petroleum products, which release greenhouse gases when they are produced. Additionally, microplastics do not biodegrade, so they will remain in the environment for centuries, continuing to pollute our waterways and contributing to climate change.
The effects of microplastics on Lake Tahoe are clear. This invisible pollution is harming the lake’s ecosystem, our food supply, and our health. It is also contributing to climate change. We must take action to reduce the number of microplastics in our environment and protect Lake Tahoe for future generations.
Impacts of microplastics on humans
Health Problems...
Studies have shown that microplastics can cause a variety of health problems in humans, including gastrointestinal issues, reproductive problems, and even cancer. In one study, researchers found that 90% of the participants had microplastics in their stool samples. Another study found that exposure to microplastics can disrupt the endocrine system, which can lead to a variety of health problems.
Contaminate food and water supply...
In one study, researchers found that microplastics were present in tap water, bottled water, seafood, and even table salt. This means that we are likely ingesting microplastics daily.
Stunted growth, developmental delays, and birth defects have been observed in animals that have been exposed to microplastics. These effects are likely since microplastics can mimic hormones in the body and disrupt the endocrine system. There is no evidence yet to suggest that microplastics have the same effects on humans, but it is a possibility.
Stunted growth, developmental delays, and birth defects...
Impact ecosystems...
Microplastics can also have an impact on entire ecosystems. Microplastics can absorb toxins from the water and then be passed up the food chain to animals and humans. They can also physical damage to marine life, such as entanglement or ingestion.
Spread of invasive species...
Microplastics can serve as a vector for the spread of invasive species. When animals mistake microplastics for food, they can inadvertently transport them to new environments when they defecate. This can lead to the introduction of new species into an ecosystem, which can disrupt the delicate balance and cause problems for native wildlife.
Microplastics are a growing problem with far-reaching consequences. It’s important to be aware of how they can impact our health and the environment so that we can take steps to reduce our exposure and protect ourselves and the planet.
The effects of microplastics on human health are still being studied, but the evidence so far is cause for concern. Microplastics are ubiquitous in our environment and we are likely to ingest them daily. They can cause a variety of health problems, including gastrointestinal issues, reproductive problems, and even cancer. We need to do more to reduce our reliance on plastic and to clean up the microplastics that are already polluting our environment.
Recycle
Reduce
Pick Up Litter
Educate
The health of Lake Tahoe is essential to the well-being of California and Nevada. We must take action to protect this precious resource from the threat of microplastics. Living in the garbage for this little unidentified fish a couple of hundred feet deep in Lake Tahoe.
What can you do to reduce microplastics in Lake Tahoe?
One of the best ways to reduce microplastics is to recycle. Make sure you are recycling all of your plastic bottles, cups, and containers.
Reduce your use of single-use plastics. Bring a reusable water bottle with you when you hike or camp in Lake Tahoe. Say no to straws and plastic bags.
Pick up litter. If you see litter, pick it up and dispose of it properly. Littering is one of the main ways that microplastics end up in Lake Tahoe.
Educate others about the problem of microplastics. The more people that are aware of the issue, the more likely they are to take action. Spread the word about the effects of microplastics and what we can do to reduce them.