Make a difference by going plastic free for the month of July. We can all be a part of the solution by reducing the use of plastic in our daily lives. Learn more about what you can do with this Plastic Free July Calendar 2022 from the Great Lakes Plastic Pollution Solutions Coalition. Find additional information on ways to curb the use of plastics from the Plastic Free Foundation.
Below is a rebroadcast of a video presentation given last year by Art Hirsch on microplastics in the Great Lakes.
Microplastics in the Great Lakes
Art Hirsch will discuss the sources, impacts, legislation and mitigation actions to address microplastics. Microplastics in the Great Lakes is an emerging water quality issue that has the potential of impacting human health and the aquatic environment. It has been estimated that microplastics are consumed by the US population at a rate of 5 grams per 
week; this is weight of a credit card. Microplastics are found in our food, water and even beer along the Great Lakes. Fish are ingesting microplastics that causes them to starve. Over 22 million pounds of plastic enter the Great Lakes every year and Lake Michigan is the #1 source.
Art Hirsch is a former environmental consultant with over 30 years of experience. He lives in Boulder Colorado and spends his summers in Pentwater, Michigan. He is originally from North Muskegon, Michigan and he received his Bachelor of Science degree from Michigan State University and a Master of Science degree from the University of Colorado. His expertise is in the areas of water quality, stormwater management, sustainability and environmental impact assessments. He is a member of the Climate Reality Project founded by former Vice President Gore and the For the Love of Water organization located in Traverse City and the Great Lakes Plastic Pollution Solutions Coalition. He is currently working on the Enbridge Line 5 Shutdown, GHG reductions associated with transportation, oil and gas operations and microplastics.
The AFFEW board held its annual meeting via zoom on November 11. Julia Chambers, AFFEW President gave the annual report and board elections were held. Julia Chambers, Cathy Horowski, and Dave Masten are were re-elected for a two year term. Chuck Klopinski was thanked for his year’s as treasurer and Marie Quillan was welcomed as the new treasurer for AFFEW.
Each summer AFFEW and our committed volunteers clean the south section of the beach by the breakwater at Stearns Park. This area gets a ton of activity throughout the summer especially during the Fourth of July Freedom Festival. We meet, weather permitting, on the 3rd Wednesday June thru August at 7 pm. We also participate in the International Beach Cleanup on the 3rd Saturday in September at 10 am. Bring a bucket and gloves. We’ll have supplies available if you don’t have your own. Stick around afterwards for green drinks (BYO/no glass) and lively conversation!