"Ripples of Plastic" explores plastic pollution in the Great Lakes, tracing how single-use plastics, microplastics, nurdles, tire particles, and litter travel through storm drains, rivers, and beaches into freshwater ecosystems. Through field research, cleanup efforts, and scientific interviews, the video explains how plastics break down, enter food webs, affect fish and wildlife, and carry harmful chemicals linked to ecosystem and human health concerns. It also highlights data collection, environmental science research methods, watershed connections, circular economy solutions, reusable products, and policy responses such as plastic bag bans and producer responsibility. This documentary supports curricula in ecology, environmental issues, biology, public health, and civics.