EPISODE · Apr 6, 2026 · 13 MIN
Can algae help pull microplastics out of our water supply?
from Science Friday · host Kathleen Davis, Susie Dai, Kate Grumke
Microplastics and nanoplastics have been found just about everywhere: in our soil, our bodies, and our water. Recent research involving bioengineered algae has had success in capturing and removing microplastics from water. Environmental reporter Kate Grumke joins Producer Kathleen Davis to talk about the latest approaches to addressing microplastics, and researcher Susie Dai discusses her work using algae to pull them out of wastewater. Guests: Dr. Susie Dai is a professor of chemical and environmental engineering at the University of Missouri. Kate Grumke is a senior environmental reporter for St. Louis Public Radio. Transcripts for each episode are available within 1-3 days at sciencefriday.com. Subscribe to this podcast. Follow our show on Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and Bluesky @scifri and sign up for our newsletters. Got a science question that’s keeping you up at night? Call us: 877-472-4374 Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.
What this episode covers
Microplastics are everywhere, including in our water. One scientist wants wastewater plants to put bioengineered algae to work for a cleanup.
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Can algae help pull microplastics out of our water supply?
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