Dr. Janice Brahney will discuss the impact of toxins, nutrients, heavy metals, caffeine, and microplastics in dust during an upcoming Research Landscapes event. The presentation is scheduled for Wednesday, November 11, 2026, from 4:00 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. at the O.C. Tanner headquarters.
The presentation will draw on eight years of atmospheric deposition data collected from 30 sites across the Midwest and West. Dr. Brahney will explain how dust from the exposed Great Salt Lake bed can transport both natural materials and pollutants from human activity. According to the announcement, these particles can have consequences for health, snowpack, and mountain watersheds.
Dr. Brahney's research previously helped California become the first state to define microplastics. During the event, she is expected to argue that air-quality monitoring must look beyond PM10 and that action is needed immediately.
The Utah State University Research Landscapes series aims to connect state and community decision-makers with researchers investigating critical land, water, and air issues. Each event features a live presentation highlighting a researcher's work, followed by a question-and-answer session. The series is sponsored by O.C. Tanner.
The event will be held at 1930 South State Street in Salt Lake City. Those interested in attending the conversation are encouraged to RSVP.
