Excellent essay, Lyle! Thanks for writing about this important matter.

In addition to the source of microplastics, the chemical 6-PPD, used as a tire wear preventative, converts to 6-PPD quinone when exposed to atmospheric ozone. The microplastics along with the 6-PPD quinone entering streams either directly adjacent to roadways or via stormwater collection, has been shown to be lethal to coho salmon within hours of exposure. Toxicity has also been connected with other aquatic organisms.

As our friends at Dupont used to advertise, "Better Things for Better Living...Through Chemistry"! 👩🏻‍🔬☠️