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Lakes connect

Invisible to the human eye but dangerous - findings from pilots

08 November 2023
Technical details

Recent research conducted as part of a pilot monitoring project of lakes before, during, and after the tourist season in Poland, Lithuania, and Latvia has revealed the presence of an alarming number of microplastic particles, especially in Poland. The photographs from these studies unveil a picture of contamination in the natural aquatic environment. The images displaying microscopic plastic fragments found in water samples from these lakes are not only concerning but also encourage deeper reflection on the state of our planet.

It is crucial to understand that microplastics are not merely a cosmetic issue; they pose a threat to the health of humans, aquatic animals, and entire aquatic ecosystems. The photographs depicting microplastics that have entered the food chain, including fish, serve as one of many alarming pieces of evidence of the scale of this threat.

The pilot studies represent a significant step forward in understanding the impact of plastic waste on the aquatic environment, but further actions are necessary, both at the political and societal levels. Effective waste management strategies need to be implemented, along with public education to reduce plastic production and increase recycling and responsible waste disposal. Each one of us can contribute to the fight against plastic pollution by changing our habits and supporting eco-friendly initiatives.

Our planet needs our care to preserve the purity of its waters!

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