With the World Health Organization deeming styrene a probable carcinogen, environmentalists are working to reduce the amount that gets into waterways.
Tomorrow (6/23), the group Environment Oregon is holding a clean-up event at the Willamette River, at Alton Baker Park.
Co-organizer Chelsea Barker says styrene is commonly found in Styrofoam products, as well as SOLO cups and other plastics.
“Every day, Americans throw away 70 million foam cups and take-out containers that we don’t need made of polystyrene," says Barker. "And this pollution ends up in our oceans never fully degrading and harming our marine ecosystems and wildlife for thousands of years.”
Barker says the clean-up runs from 11am to 1pm. People are encouraged to wear comfortable walking shoes and gloves if they wish to participate.
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