Macy Gustavus

Location: Utah

Macy is a Masters student and microplastics researcher at Utah State University whose work focuses on the transport of microplastics and current gaps in the proposed microplastics cycle. As a native of Southeast Michigan, Macy has observed the effects that industry and anthropogenic activity has had on the Great Lakes first-hand. Her passion for people and the environment led her into the field of public health where she worked as a water quality specialist prior to pursuing her master’s degree.

Though Macy has always strived to minimize her use of plastic, her research experience and work with microplastics have intensified her efforts to find alternatives to plastic in her everyday life. Macy is optimistic that continued advocacy and education is the key to fighting the plastic problem. In the winter of 2021, Macy enrolled in the Beyond Plastics course at Bennington College with Judith Enck. After completing this course, Macy was thrilled to join the Beyond Plastics movement as a volunteer speaker.

Macy recently graduated with honors from Oakland University, earning a BS in Environmental Science with a specialization in Environmental Health and Safety. She is currently pursuing an MS in Watershed Sciences at Utah State University while working as a Research Assistant in the Environmental Biogeochemistry and Paleolimnology Laboratory.

In her free time Macy enjoys hiking, running, biking, swimming, reading, volunteering with local organizations, and spending time with friends and family whom she adores.

Macy Gustavus