Saratoga High student leading awareness around microplastics

The rise of plastics, particularly single-use items, has boosted the emergence of an environmental movement aimed at improving sustainability.

One local high school student, Urmila Vudali of Saratoga High School, is raising awareness around microplastics and the impact they have on the environment and human health.

“I wanted to do something to make people more aware of the issue and conscious of their choices,” Vudali said.

She noted that microplastics are found in everything from car tires to laundry detergents.

“I had been aware of the plastics issue for a while, but I was oblivious to how much it has infiltrated every aspect of our lives,” she added.

Vudali has organized a panel discussion for Monday, September 14, on the subject. Panelists include the following experts.

  • Dr. Scott Coffin – Environmental Scientist and Researcher with the State Water Resources Control Board;
  • Holly Wyer – Program Manager for the Ocean Protection Council and leads the Marine Pollution Program;
  • Grace Lee – Waste Prevention Program Associate with the Clean Water Action Coalition and project lead for the Unpacking Alameda Initiative; and,
  • Dr. Rebecca Sutton – Senior Scientist at the San Francisco Estuary Institute and a senior member of the Regional Monitoring Program for Water Quality in San Francisco Bay (RMP).

To register for the event, which runs from 4 to 5 p.m. on September 14, click here.

It comes as the Santa Clara County Board of Supervisors proclaimed September 14 as Microplastics Awareness Day.

“It’s been so gratifying to see an engaged young activist like Urmila bringing awareness to this important topic,” said County Supervisor Joe Simitian.