An Interdisciplinary Methodology to Extract Microplastics from Soil: Laying the Groundwork for a Citizen Science Project
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| Title: | An Interdisciplinary Methodology to Extract Microplastics from Soil: Laying the Groundwork for a Citizen Science Project |
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| Language: | English |
| Authors: | Gustavo A. Salazar, Alana K. Taylor, Liliana A. Driver |
| Source: | Science Education and Civic Engagement. 2025 17(1):5-23. |
| Availability: | National Center for Science and Civic Engagement. 114 Post Street, Saugerties, NY 12477. Web site: http://new.seceij.net/ |
| Peer Reviewed: | Y |
| Page Count: | 19 |
| Publication Date: | 2025 |
| Document Type: | Journal Articles Reports - Descriptive |
| Descriptors: | Interdisciplinary Approach, Soil Science, Citizen Participation, Science Education, Scientific Research, Plastics, Environmental Education, Pollution, Chemistry, Science Instruction, Teaching Methods, Science Laboratories, Science Projects |
| ISSN: | 2167-1230 |
| Abstract: | The forming of microplastics in the environment continues be a global problem with damaging risks to ecosystems and human health. Currently, most microplastic studies concentrate on water and air, while research focus on terrestrial samples such as soil still lags behind. This project reports the first results of our effort to develop and implement a methodology to study microplastics in soil samples nested in a multidisciplinary teaching laboratory. Chemistry and non-chemistry students isolated and examined microplastics, typically finding blue microfibers, verified via optical microscopy. In addition, participants designed outreach activities to introduce microplastic concepts to younger students and helped refine the methodology for further use across multiple courses and community events. This project ultimately pursues the establishment of a citizen science initiative, where shipped soil samples will be processed in teaching sessions. |
| Abstractor: | As Provided |
| Entry Date: | 2025 |
| Accession Number: | EJ1478875 |
| Database: | ERIC |
| Abstract: | The forming of microplastics in the environment continues be a global problem with damaging risks to ecosystems and human health. Currently, most microplastic studies concentrate on water and air, while research focus on terrestrial samples such as soil still lags behind. This project reports the first results of our effort to develop and implement a methodology to study microplastics in soil samples nested in a multidisciplinary teaching laboratory. Chemistry and non-chemistry students isolated and examined microplastics, typically finding blue microfibers, verified via optical microscopy. In addition, participants designed outreach activities to introduce microplastic concepts to younger students and helped refine the methodology for further use across multiple courses and community events. This project ultimately pursues the establishment of a citizen science initiative, where shipped soil samples will be processed in teaching sessions. |
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| ISSN: | 2167-1230 |
