EcoSuperior has received a $45,000 grant from the provincial government to lead a project that will help keep plastic pollution out of local waterways and Lake Superior.

The organization has partnered with the City of Thunder Bay to install LittaTraps a net or trap that catches plastic out of the water flowing into storm drains.

The project not only protects waterways, but by strategically placing these traps near city parks, waterfront areas and parking lots, the project aims to identify and address plastic pollution hotspots.

“Our mission is ‘Building a Healthy Future for People and the Planet’. Through the support of the Government of Ontario, we are able to continue to reduce litter in our waterways and educate our community on the importance of waste reduction,” said Co-Executive Director, EcoSuperior Environmental Programs Erin Moir. “Through this project we will capture litter debris and microplastics before they reach our waterways, making a tangible difference in preserving the health of Lake Superior.”

EcoSuperior will be writing a report for the City to educate on the local solutions to plastic waste which could include, trash cleanups, better waste management infrastructure, increased garbage collection in key areas, and improved signage.

“It is our duty to protect Lake Superior and all of our surrounding waterways,” said Mayor Ken Boshcoff. “Through the Ontario Community Environment Fund, EcoSuperior will be able to help address the plastic pollution that enters our waterways and help protect the resources and ecosystems that depend on them. This is fantastic news for our community.”

EcoSuperior will also extend the impact of the collected data by connecting with the International Trash Trapping Network to contribute to the global fight against plastic pollution.

Funding for this project is being provided through the 2023 Ontario Community Environment Fund, which uses environmental penalties paid by polluters to support locally-driven activities that protect and restore areas impacted by pollution.

This year, Ontario will provide nearly $1.5 million for these projects, which may include activities like shoreline cleanups, habitat restoration and tree planting.

The EcoSuperior project is one of the first projects to receive funds in 2024.