Ontario Allocates $45K to Thunder Bay Initiative Combatting Microplastic Pollution in Waterways.
Ontario Invests $45,000 in Project to Safeguard Lake Superior and Thunder Bay Waterways from Plastic Pollution
A collaborative effort between EcoSuperior and the City of Thunder Bay has secured funding to combat plastic pollution in local waterways. The initiative will deploy LittaTraps, innovative catch basin filters, throughout the city to intercept plastic debris before it reaches Lake Superior and surrounding water bodies.
Strategically positioned in parks, waterfronts, and parking lots, these devices aim to pinpoint and mitigate plastic pollution hotspots by capturing microplastics. This proactive approach safeguards aquatic ecosystems and the diverse wildlife reliant on them, mitigating potential harm caused by microplastic contamination.
The LittaTraps initiative marks the inaugural recipient of funding in 2023 from the Ontario Community Environment Fund. This fund channels penalties from environmental infractions towards empowering local initiatives dedicated to safeguarding and revitalizing areas affected by pollution.
Lake Superior, the largest freshwater lake globally, serves as a vital water source for Thunder Bay and its surrounding communities. Yet, alarming statistics reveal that over 70,000 pounds (over 31,000 kilograms) of plastic waste infiltrate the lake annually, as reported by the American Chemical Society in 2022.
proactive stance against pollution
Kevin Holland, MPP for Thunder Bay–Atikokan, highlighted the collaborative efforts wherein EcoSuperior, renowned for its commitment to environmental stewardship, will spearhead a social media campaign. This initiative aims to raise public awareness about the detrimental effects of plastic pollution in local waterways and provide actionable steps individuals can take to mitigate it.
Additionally, EcoSuperior will furnish the City of Thunder Bay with a comprehensive report to aid in the development of tailored solutions to address plastic waste. Potential measures include organized clean-up activities, enhancements to waste management infrastructure, strategic placement of additional garbage receptacles, and improved signage to promote responsible disposal practices.
Furthermore, EcoSuperior plans to leverage its findings by engaging with the International Trash Trapping Network, thereby contributing valuable data to the global endeavor to combat plastic pollution.
