Small But Mighty: The Peril of Microplastics and a Dreamer’s Quest to Climb Denali

Microplastics, the tiny plastic particles that are less than five millimeters in diameter, have been discovered in every marine habitat examined by researchers from the Ocean Conservancy. These particles, which are not biodegradable, are ingested and consumed by both humans and animals. Blue whales, for instance, can consume up to 10 million microplastics each day. While most of the plastic is expelled from our bodies, a small portion remains inside us, and its long-term effects on human health are still unknown.

Scientists Jaramillo and Crisafi-Lurtsema are working to learn more about microplastics. They are studying the particles in the air as well as those left behind by climbers on Denali who discard items made from plastic. By gathering data on this issue, they hope to better understand the scope of the problem.

For Jaramillo, climbing Denali along the West Buttress Route is a lifelong dream come true. Growing up in Quito, Ecuador, he developed a passion for climbing with his father at a young age. Now a student in UAF’s engineering program, Jaramillo is excited for the opportunity to climb Denali and fulfill a childhood dream that has taken him from Ecuador to New York City to Alaska. His journey has led him to this moment where he is about to embark on an adventure that he has always dreamed of.