Federal Grant Award Summary

Michigan Technological University received a $408,170 Project Grant from the National Science Foundation's Division of Chemical, Bioengineering, Environmental, and Transport Systems under the Engineering program (CFDA 47.041), effective October 1, 2025, through November 30, 2027. The award funds research to develop a comprehensive Material Flow Analysis (MFA) model tracking macro, micro, and nano plastic flows through engineered systems, products, and environmental pathways in the United States and Caribbean regions. Primary deliverables include new empirical data on plastic concentrations and composition across geographically variable locations; a validated predictive model correlating secondary micro and nano plastic concentrations to macro-plastic concentrations; and an assessment of satellite and aerial remote sensing capabilities for estimating plastic presence in aquatic environments.

The project generates applied research products addressing critical gaps in plastic source identification and movement pathways necessary for designing effective mitigation strategies. Additional deliverables include educational curriculum and workforce development activities engaging U.S. and Caribbean students in microplastic collection and measurement methodologies. The research outcomes will inform evidence-based plastic waste reduction solutions tailored to specific geographic contexts where plastic contamination pathways differ, advancing understanding of how microplastics from both engineered sources and macro-plastic degradation distribute through environmental and human exposure pathways.