Microplastics are in our water, our soil, and even our everyday routines. Researchers at the University of Michigan are working to better understand how microplastics impact our environment and our health, and what we can all do to help reduce and remove them.

From research to everyday choices, this exhibit invites visitors to understand microplastics and leave feeling empowered to do something about the issue.

Explore how science, action, and hope come together in our newest exhibit, All the plastic you cannot see.

Making an Exhibit without Microplastics

When we started designing this exhibit, we realized how much plastic we typically use. We always reuse materials, but this time, we aimed to use less plastic and create fewer microplastics.

To achieve this, we tested new materials–using rigid cardboard panels instead of sintra to print on, and projection instead of large vinyl wall graphics. We sourced almost all household elements from disposal or second-hand sources.

The lessons learned from this exhibit will be applied to future exhibits, reducing our microplastic footprint for future changing exhibits.

This goal was supported by:
U-M LSA Sustainability, Big George's Home Appliance Mart, Common Cycle, Huron River Watershed Council

© 2026 Regents of the University of Michigan