Fibreglass particles a potential ‘forever’ contaminant, new research warns
New research indicates that fibreglass particles may pose significant environmental risks in marine ecosystems, particularly in the Cowichan Estuary. The study found high concentrations of fibreglass contamination in biofilm and sediments, raising concerns about its potential toxicity. Experts suggest that fibreglass could become a new 'forever' contaminant, similar to microplastics, but its effects are still not well understood.
- ▪Researchers found significant levels of fibreglass contamination in the Cowichan Estuary.
- ▪Fibreglass particles are tiny shards resulting from industrial uses and boat maintenance.
- ▪The study highlights the potential risks of fibreglass to marine life and ecosystems.
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Open this photo in gallery:A wrecked, abandoned boat is seen in the Cowichan Estuary on Vancouver Island in April. New research by the Cowichan Estuary Restoration and Conservation Association found significant levels of fibreglass contamination in the estuary, which experts say can be traced to abandoned vessels like this one.Jesse Winter/The Globe and MailShareSave for laterPlease log in to bookmark this story.Log InCreate Free AccountA flock of shorebirds burst into the air, circling the mouth of the Cowichan River before settling back onto a rocky sandbar to feed.Migratory birds such as Western sandpipers feed on the biofilm – a fatty surface slime of diatoms and bacteria – that forms in these intertidal mud flats.
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