Microplastics are an emerging concern in freshwater systems, but until recently, there was little reliable data on how much is present in Alberta’s rivers or how it moves through them. Without clear information, it has been difficult for researchers, communities, and decision-makers to fully understand or respond to this growing issue.
NAIT Applied Research set out to close this gap by developing new ways to detect and measure microplastics in complex river systems like the North Saskatchewan River. Their team created a specialized sampling system and lab methods capable of capturing and analyzing microplastics in sediment-heavy water. Over four years, they collected data across multiple sites and seasons, building one of the most comprehensive datasets of its kind in Canada and creating a framework that can be used in other watersheds.
This work is helping shape how microplastics are monitored and understood in Alberta, providing the foundation for informed decisions about protecting freshwater systems now and into the future.
