Update Chrome Browser
Microplastic Surveys in Cape Cod, MA
At Ocean Pure, our microplastic surveys in Cape Cod, MA, are designed so participants can collect data without the need for expensive equipment. These surveys identify and examine microplastics’ chemical compositions and sources. They also help determine the number of microplastics and level of plastic pollution in a particular area.
Survey Tools or Equipment
The following tools or equipment are needed:
1 m ‘Square’ of Rope, or Thick String (4 m Length in Total)
This is used to build a “quadrant” and map the sample areas. Tent pegs, stones, or something similar will help secure the corners.
Two Buckets or Containers (Preferably Light Colored)
This will make it easier to see the floating microplastics.
10 cm Square Template
This can be made from various materials, such as cardboard cut into a 10 cm × 10 cm square or sticks tied into a 10 cm × 10 cm square.
Kitchen Sieve
This sieve mesh should be about 1 mm in size.
Spoon
This is used for collecting sediment and mixing it in a bowl.
A Container for Microplastics
This is used to take collected plastics home and sort them.
Survey Techniques
Although several scientists conduct surveys worldwide, there is very little consistency in the techniques applied. We have created a systematic survey and sampling technique that offers a representative sample and is easy to replicate, making it possible to compare results from various parts of the globe.
Lay out your rope using tent pegs or something similar after choosing your survey area. An exact square is not required. If the quadrant has a lot of plants, shake off any plastics and set the vegetation aside.
Take 5 random samples from the 1 m2 quadrant area using your 10 cm2 template as a guide. Use a spoon to dig the first 2 cm (1”) of sediment.
Fill one of your buckets with seawater and check whether any plastic particles are floating on the surface. Add the 2 cm of sediment to the seawater and repeat this five times in the quadrant. Afterward, stir the sediment to release any plastics within it.
Plastics may now be visibly floating on top. Transfer the water through the sieve into the second bucket. You can use the water in the second bucket again and throw away the sediment left in the first bucket.
Remove any vegetation from your sample and place the microplastics in a container (takeaway food trays work well) for further analysis.
Move along your 25 m survey line and repeat the process 4 times. Samples from all 5 quadrants should go into the same container, such as a takeaway tray or something similar. Congratulations, you have just finished a scientific survey on microplastics.
Learn More
Contact us with any questions regarding our microplastic sampling techniques and survey equipment. We hope you will volunteer to gather any information and data needed to help solve the microplastic problem.