Why is single-use plastic still in the conservation sector toolbox?

Abstract

Microplastic residue left in the environment from plastic chewcards in three pest mammal monitoring operations was estimated at an average of 15% of the starting weight. This finding highlight the issue of single-use plastics within New Zealand’s (NZ) conservation sector. A review of other research operations across NZ shows a significant number of plastic chewcards are deployed, potentially contributing to microplastic pollution in environmentally sensitive areas. Our research shows the need for sustainable alternatives to plastic chewcards in order to mitigate the environmental impact. Alongside an estimation of microplastic being left in the environment, we evaluated wood-pulp chewcards as a potential alternative to corflute chewcards, with results indicating wood-pulp cards maintain comparable interaction rates across key pest species. By identifying the environmental issues of microplastics in the environment and offering a potential alternative, we aim to open a dialogue about adopting more sustainable tools and practices in the NZ conservation sector.