The Puget Sound Stormwater Strategic Initiative Lead (SWSIL) is developing a Microplastic Pollution Strategy to update the Toxics in Aquatic Life Implementation Strategy. Implementation Strategies are used in conjunction with the Puget Sound Action Agenda to guide future investments of EPA Puget Sound Geographic Program Funds (aka National Estuary Program, or NEP, funds). 

Microplastics are ubiquitous in our environment, often associated with Contaminants of Emerging Concern (CECs) like PFAS, and increasingly found throughout human adults and children. Emerging toxicological research suggests microplastics could have significant health impacts to people, aquatic and terrestrial species, and our environment. Recent studies in Puget Sound marine waters have found microplastics in marine sediments, fish and shellfish tissues, and water samples.

We are taking an encompassing look at wastewater, stormwater, indoor environmental quality, solid waste and recycling, public health, and consumer and business choices, ecotoxicological research and monitoring. A series of workshops from 2025-2026 will include presentations from leading researchers and implementers to help us understand the problem with microplastics, the sources and pathways for microplastics in the environment, the health hazards and potential risks, and discuss strategic actions to begin addressing the problem and reduce health risks to people, aquatic species, and the Puget Sound environment.

For more information, please contact: Dustin Bilhimer (dustin.bilhimer@ecy.wa.gov) or Heidi Siegelbaum (heidi.siegelbaum@wsu.edu)

The Starter Package is a supplemental resource with summaries of the latest science and links to detailed research and studies. 

Workshop #1 The Problem with Microplastics & Focus Finding
December 4, 2025 from 10:00am-4:00pm

Presentation Recordings and Workshop notes coming soon.
Meeting Materials Link (link here)

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