Answered by Vox Season 1 Episode 71 It's Raining Plastic?

It's Raining Plastic? is the 71st episode of Answered by Vox season 1. In this episode, the team takes a deep dive into the issue of microplastics in the environment. Microplastics are tiny pieces of plastic that measure less than 5 millimeters in length, and they are a growing concern for the health of the planet and its inhabitants.

In order to learn more about microplastics, the Answered by Vox team conducts interviews with experts in the field. They speak to Dr. Sherri Mason, a researcher who has been studying microplastics in freshwater systems for over a decade. She explains that microplastics are pervasive in the environment, and they have been found in everything from seafood to tap water.

The team also speaks to Dr. Deonie Allen, who is leading a research project on microplastics at the University of Strathclyde in Scotland. She explains that microplastics can have a number of negative impacts on the environment, such as disrupting animal behavior and causing reproductive harm.

In addition to speaking with experts, the team also conducts experiments to see firsthand how microplastics can enter the environment. They visit a wastewater treatment plant and collect samples of the effluent, which they then analyze for the presence of microplastics. They also conduct an experiment where they wash a fleece jacket and collect the water runoff to see how many microplastics are released during the washing process.

Throughout the episode, the Answered by Vox team explores the ways in which microplastics are entering the environment and the potential consequences of their presence. They also discuss possible solutions, such as reducing the use of disposable plastic products and improving wastewater treatment processes.

Overall, It's Raining Plastic? is a thought-provoking episode that sheds light on an important environmental issue. Through interviews with experts and hands-on experiments, the team provides a comprehensive look at the prevalence of microplastics in the environment and the potential impacts they may have. It is a must-watch for anyone interested in environmental conservation and the health of our planet.