Date of Award
Spring 4-23-2026
Document Type
Thesis
Publication Status
Version of Record
Submission Date
May 2026
Department
Environmental Sciences
College Granting Degree
Charles E. Schmidt College of Science
Department Granting Degree
Environmental Sciences Program
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Thesis/Dissertation Advisor [Chair]
Erik Johanson
Abstract
This novel study investigates the presence, distribution, and possible drivers of microplastic (MP) pollution in 15 alpine and subalpine lakes in the Swiss Alps. A total of 35 surface water samples were collected and analyzed under a microscope to identify and classify MPs by size, shape, and color. MPs were found in all lakes, with small fibers being the most abundant type, suggesting that atmospheric processes are a key transport pathway. Contrary to expectations, MP levels showed no significant relationship with elevation, temperature, pH, or distance to anthropogenic features, indicating that broader environmental processes likely control their distribution. However, clear differences within lakes were observed, with higher MP concentrations along eastern shorelines, highlighting the possible influence prevailing westerly winds have on post-deposition redistribution. Overall, the results show that even remote alpine lakes are affected by widespread microplastic pollution
Recommended Citation
Gutzwiller, Nora, "ELEVATIONAL PATTERNS OF MICROPLASTIC DENSITY IN THE SURFACE WATER OF REMOTE MOUNTAIN LAKES IN THE SWISS ALPS" (2026). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 310.
https://digitalcommons.fau.edu/etd_general/310