"We make microplastic science clear, without the unnecessary fear. By providing people with a tailored picture of their own exposure, we can show what a meaningful reduction actually looks like."
MicroClarity exists because the gap between what the research shows and what most people understand about their own exposure is enormous. The science is credible and growing. The public conversation around it is often either alarmist or dismissive — neither of which is useful.
This project translates peer-reviewed research on microplastic exposure pathways into practical, personal information. The quiz is built from published studies — including findings from Environmental Science & Technology, Marine Pollution Bulletin, and the National Toxicology Program's systematic review. The product recommendations link to documented exposure reductions, not marketing claims.
The Great Lakes section exists because regional specificity matters. A national average is less useful than knowing what is in the water in your watershed, your tributaries, your tap.
The project launched from Traverse City, Michigan — a community on the edge of Lake Michigan. The proximity made the research feel urgent in a way that national statistics don't always convey. Microplastics are not an abstract problem here. They are in the drinking water, in the fish, and in the lakes that define the region and sustain its economy.
The Great Lakes hold 84% of North America's surface fresh water and supply drinking water to 40 million people. They also have some of the highest documented freshwater microplastic concentrations on Earth. We think that deserves more serious public attention than it currently receives — and more than environmental news cycles typically give it.
This is an independent project, built and maintained in Traverse City, Michigan. It is not affiliated with or endorsed by any institution. The site is led by a student at the University of Notre Dame, whose focus is translating regional environmental contamination research into accessible, actionable information for the communities most directly affected.
Content on this site is reviewed for scientific accuracy and updated as new peer-reviewed research is published. If you have questions about specific claims or want to discuss the underlying data, reach out directly.
For research questions, media inquiries, collaboration proposals, or general feedback:
For corrections or questions about specific data cited on this site, please include the relevant page section in your message. We respond to science-based inquiries promptly.
