Have you ever thought about where plastic goes after you throw it away? Most of us don’t — but we should.
In this episode, I’m joined by a brilliant microplastics researcher and community science advocate, Joseph Barnes, who walks us through the truth about microplastics — those tiny, invisible pieces of plastic that are now being found in our water, our food, and even inside our bodies.
We start by breaking down the basics:
🔍 What exactly are microplastics?
🌊 How are they getting into our oceans, soil, and ecosystems?
🧪 Why scientists are now detecting them in human blood, lungs, and placenta.
But this episode is about more than just the science — it’s also about action.
💡 What can we, as individuals, do to reduce our plastic footprint?
🏘️ How can communities lead the charge, from the bottom up, in demanding cleaner environments and greater transparency?
📊 And how do citizen-led efforts like open databases and local sampling projects change the way we gather and use environmental data?
You’ll also hear about the real-world impact of environmental toxins, the challenges of collecting and tracking data at a global scale, and the inspiring work being done to put science back in the hands of people. This is grassroots activism powered by evidence and empathy.
Whether you’re someone who:
Recycles but wonders if it really matters
Cares about your health and the environment but feels overwhelmed
Is curious about climate action, pollution, or how science can meet people where they are
—this conversation is for you.
🧠 Some topics we dive into:
Why single-use plastics are just the tip of the iceberg
The hidden journey of microplastics — from our homes to oceans, to seafood, and beyond
The role of toxicity, bioaccumulation, and how plastics interact with other pollutants
How youth and community engagement can help close knowledge gaps
Why education, data-sharing, and collaboration matter more than ever
🎧 Whether you’re listening on a commute or a walk, this is one of those episodes that may change how you see the world — and your own daily habits.
🗣️ You don’t need a science degree to understand this — just curiosity, and maybe a desire to make a little difference.
🔗 Don’t forget to share this episode with someone who cares about clean oceans, healthy communities, or just wants to understand what “microplastics” really means.
📍 Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and wherever you listen.
Because science isn’t just for labs — it’s for all of us.