Problem Card 08: Microthread Pollution
What type of plastic is most commonly found in our oceans? Plastic bags? Plastic wrappers?
Guess again. You are wearing it!
Over 60% of the plastic debris found in the marine environment are from microfibers from our clothing. 3/4 of all clothes produced contain synthetic (humanmade) fibres, such as polyester, Lycra, nylonetc... otherwise known as plastics.
This global issue has increased by over 450% since the 1960s. Scientists have discovered plastic waste from microfibers is six times greater than the plastic from other sources, like bottles, bags and wrappers.
Are you ready to take on the challenge in addressing microplastic pollution?
Innovate
Meet Alessandra Sutti of Deakin University.
Alessandra works with scientists, researching the effects of microthreads on the environment, and will introduce you to some of the problems faced in the sector.
Can you help? Are you up to the challenge?
Create
How could we prevent microthreads from polluting the environment?
Watch this video to be assigned your task!
Mission Briefing
Now that you’ve heard your problems, it’s time to choose which task you’d like to tackle with your team!
You might like to use some of the questions in the list below as inspiration for thinking about your problem. When you’re ready to get started, press “Go” to explore the additional resources and activities.
Can clothing manufacturers help solve the problem with what materials they use to make clothing?
How could washing machine manufacturers help solve this problem?
Is there something governments and councils could do?
Who would benefit, and whose responsibility is it anyway?
Additional Resources
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Problem Card
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Ocean Pollution Curriculum Activity
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Student Worksheet
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Rubric
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Unit Plan
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