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Chatterjee NH, Manna S, Ray A, Das S, Rana N, Banerjee A, Ray M, Ray S. Microplastics contamination in two species of gobies and their estuarine habitat of Indian Sundarbans. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 198:115857. [PMID: 38039580 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115857] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2023] [Revised: 11/21/2023] [Accepted: 11/24/2023] [Indexed: 12/03/2023]
Abstract
Sundarbans, a Ramsar site of India is contaminated with heterogeneous microplastic wastes. Boddart's goggle eye mudskipper and Rubicundus eelgoby, were common gobies of Sundarbans estuary which accumulated microplastics during their normal biological activities. We estimated the abundance of microplastics in water, sediment; skin, gills, bucco-opercular cavity and gastrointestinal tract of these two goby fishes. Microplastic load estimated in gobies were 0.84 and 2.62 particles per fish species with a dominance of transparent, fibrous microplastics with 100-300 μm in length. ATR-FTIR and Raman spectroscopy revealed polyethylene as prevalent polymer. Surface degradations and adsorption of contaminants on microplastic surface were investigated by SEM-EDX analysis. Presence of hazardous polymers influenced high polymer hazard index and potential ecological risk index which indicated acute environmental threat to Sundarbans estuary and its resident organisms. Current study will provide a new information base on the abundance of microplastics and its ecological hazard in this biosphere reserve.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nilanjan Hari Chatterjee
- Aquatic Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Calcutta, 35 Ballygunge Circular Road, Kolkata 700019, West Bengal, India
| | - Sumit Manna
- Aquatic Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Calcutta, 35 Ballygunge Circular Road, Kolkata 700019, West Bengal, India
| | - Abhishek Ray
- Aquatic Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Calcutta, 35 Ballygunge Circular Road, Kolkata 700019, West Bengal, India
| | - Sourav Das
- Aquatic Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Calcutta, 35 Ballygunge Circular Road, Kolkata 700019, West Bengal, India
| | - Nabakumar Rana
- Department of Physics, University of Calcutta, 92 A.P.C Road, Kolkata 700009, West Bengal, India
| | - Aritra Banerjee
- Department of Physics, University of Calcutta, 92 A.P.C Road, Kolkata 700009, West Bengal, India
| | - Mitali Ray
- Aquatic Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Calcutta, 35 Ballygunge Circular Road, Kolkata 700019, West Bengal, India
| | - Sajal Ray
- Aquatic Toxicology Laboratory, Department of Zoology, University of Calcutta, 35 Ballygunge Circular Road, Kolkata 700019, West Bengal, India.
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52
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Gao P, Md Shaarani S, Mohd Noor NQI. Recent advances in inspection technologies of food safety health hazards for fish and fish products. Crit Rev Food Sci Nutr 2023:1-17. [PMID: 38059602 DOI: 10.1080/10408398.2023.2289077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
The development of reliable and sensitive detection methods is essential for addressing the escalating concerns surrounding fish and fish products, driven by increasing market demands. This comprehensive review presents recent advances in detection approaches, specifically focusing on microplastic, biological, and chemical hazards associated with these products. The overview encompasses 21 distinct detection methods, categorized based on the type of hazard they target. For microplastic hazards, six methods are visual, spectroscopic, and thermal analyses. Biological hazard identification relies on six approaches employing nucleic-acid sequence, immunological, and biosensor technologies. The investigation of chemical hazards encompasses ten methods, including chromatography, spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, immunological, biosensor, and electrochemical techniques. The review provides in-depth insights into the basic principles, general characteristics, and the recognized advantages and disadvantages of each method. Moreover, it elaborates on recent advancements within these methodologies. The concluding section of the review discusses current challenges and outlines future perspectives for these detection methods. Overall, this comprehensive summary not only serves as a guide for researchers involved in fish safety and quality control but also emphasizes the significance of staying abreast of evolving detection technologies to ensure the continued safety of fish and fish products in response to emerging food safety hazards.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peiru Gao
- Faculty of Food Science and Nutrition, Universiti Malaysia Sabah, Kota Kinabalu, Malaysia
| | - Sharifudin Md Shaarani
- Food Biotechnology Programme, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Sains Islam Malaysia, Nilai, Malaysia
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53
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Saliu F, Lasagni M, Clemenza M, Chubarenko I, Esiukova E, Suaria G. The interactions of plastic with tar and other petroleum derivatives in the marine environment: A general perspective. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 197:115753. [PMID: 37952374 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Plastic and oil pollution are closely linked to our dependence on petroleum derivatives. Their excessive use and inefficiencies in their management, have led to negative impacts on marine ecosystems since their very introduction. Agglomerates of tar, plastic, paraffins, and other petrochemicals and oil derivatives with naturally occurring materials, are increasingly widespread in coastal environments, stalling as an iconic and readable sign of environmental degradation. Starting from a historical review of the available reports on the occurrence of similar aggregates dating back to 1971, we highlight how most of these observations are based on the morphological description of the petroleum residues with no chemical fingerprinting and are mainly related to materials stranded on the coastline, with few and unclear indications for the open sea. We discuss here a list of scientific questions and knowledge gaps, that need to be examined by future studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Saliu
- Earth and Environmental Science Department, University of Milano Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 1, 20126 Milano, Italy.
| | - Marina Lasagni
- Earth and Environmental Science Department, University of Milano Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 1, 20126 Milano, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Clemenza
- National Institute of Nuclear Physic (INFN) Milano Bicocca branch, Piazza della Scienza 2, 20126 Milano, Italy
| | - Irina Chubarenko
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 36 Nakhimovsky Prosp., Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Elena Esiukova
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 36 Nakhimovsky Prosp., Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Giuseppe Suaria
- CNR-ISMAR, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto di Scienze Marine, Pozzuolo di Lerici, 19032 La Spezia, Italy
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54
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Hart LB, Dziobak M, Wells RS, McCabe EB, Conger E, Curtin T, Knight M, Weinstein J. Plastic, It's What's for Dinner: A Preliminary Comparison of Ingested Particles in Bottlenose Dolphins and Their Prey. OCEANS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 4:409-422. [PMID: 38766537 PMCID: PMC11101200 DOI: 10.3390/oceans4040028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic ingestion was reported for common bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus) inhabiting Sarasota Bay, FL, USA, a community that also has prevalent exposure to plasticizers (i.e., phthalates) at concentrations higher than human reference populations. Exposure sources are currently unknown, but plastic-contaminated prey could be a vector. To explore the potential for trophic exposure, prey fish muscle and gastrointestinal tract (GIT) tissues and contents were screened for suspected microplastics, and particle properties (e.g., color, shape, surface texture) were compared with those observed in gastric samples from free-ranging dolphins. Twenty-nine fish across four species (hardhead catfish, Ariopsis felis; pigfish, Orthopristis chrysoptera; pinfish, Lagodon rhomboides; and Gulf toadfish, Opsanus beta) were collected from Sarasota Bay during September 2022. Overall, 97% of fish (n = 28) had suspected microplastics, and GIT abundance was higher than muscle. Fish and dolphin samples contained fibers and films; however, foams were common in dolphin samples and not observed in fish. Suspected tire wear particles (TWPs) were not in dolphin samples, but 23.1% and 32.0% of fish muscle and GIT samples, respectively, contained at least one suspected TWP. While some similarities in particles were shared between dolphins and fish, small sample sizes and incongruent findings for foams and TWPs suggest further investigation is warranted to understand trophic transfer potential.
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Affiliation(s)
- Leslie B. Hart
- Department of Health and Human Performance, School of Health Sciences, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC 29424, USA
- Center for Coastal Environmental and Human Health, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC 29424, USA
| | - Miranda Dziobak
- Department of Health and Human Performance, School of Health Sciences, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC 29424, USA
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Arnold School of Public Health, University of South Carolina, Columbia, SC 29208, USA
| | - Randall S. Wells
- Chicago Zoological Society’s Sarasota Dolphin Research Program, c/o Mote Marine Laboratory, Sarasota, FL 34236, USA
| | - Elizabeth Berens McCabe
- Chicago Zoological Society’s Sarasota Dolphin Research Program, c/o Mote Marine Laboratory, Sarasota, FL 34236, USA
| | - Eric Conger
- Department of Biology, School of Sciences, Mathematics, and Engineering, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC 29424, USA
| | - Tita Curtin
- Department of Health and Human Performance, School of Health Sciences, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC 29424, USA
| | - Maggie Knight
- Graduate Program in Marine Biology, Grice Marine Laboratory, College of Charleston, Charleston, SC 29424, USA
| | - John Weinstein
- Department of Biology, The Citadel, Charleston, SC 29409, USA
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55
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Manzano-Covarrubias AL, Yan H, Luu MDA, Gadjdjoe PS, Dolga AM, Schmidt M. Unravelling the signaling power of pollutants. Trends Pharmacol Sci 2023; 44:917-933. [PMID: 37783643 DOI: 10.1016/j.tips.2023.09.002] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 09/08/2023] [Accepted: 09/08/2023] [Indexed: 10/04/2023]
Abstract
Exposure to environmental pollutants contributes to diverse pathologies, including pulmonary disease, lower respiratory infections, cancer, and stroke. Pollutants' entry can occur through inhalation, traversing endothelial and epithelial barriers, and crossing the blood-brain barrier, leading to a wide distribution throughout the human body via systemic circulation. Pollutants cause cellular damage by multiple mechanisms encompassing oxidative stress, mitochondrial dysfunction, (neuro)inflammation, and protein instability/proteotoxicity. Sensing pollutants has added a new dimension to disease progression and drug failure. Understanding the molecular pathways and potential receptor binding/signaling that underpin 'sensing' could contribute to ways to combat the detrimental effects of pollutants. We highlight key points of pollutant signaling, crosstalk with receptors acting as drug targets for chronic diseases, and discuss the potential for future therapeutics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ana L Manzano-Covarrubias
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, University of Groningen, The Netherlands; Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD, GRIAC, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Hong Yan
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, University of Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Minh D A Luu
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, University of Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Phoeja S Gadjdjoe
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, University of Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Amalia M Dolga
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, University of Groningen, The Netherlands; Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD, GRIAC, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands
| | - Martina Schmidt
- Department of Molecular Pharmacology, University of Groningen, The Netherlands; Groningen Research Institute for Asthma and COPD, GRIAC, University Medical Center Groningen, University of Groningen, Groningen, The Netherlands.
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56
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Hee YY, Hanif NM, Weston K, Latif MT, Suratman S, Rusli MU, Mayes AG. Atmospheric microplastic transport and deposition to urban and pristine tropical locations in Southeast Asia. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 902:166153. [PMID: 37562616 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166153] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/04/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/12/2023]
Abstract
Atmospheric microplastic transport is an important delivery pathway with the deposition of microplastics to ecologically important regions raising environmental concerns. Investigating atmospheric delivery pathways and their deposition rates in different ecosystems is necessary to understanding its global impact. In this study, atmospheric deposition was collected at three sites in Malaysia, two urban and one pristine, covering the Northeast and Southwest monsoons to quantify the role of this pathway in Southeast Asia. Air mass back trajectories showed long-range atmospheric transport of microplastics to all sites with atmospheric deposition varying from 114 to 689 MP/m2/day. For the east coast of Peninsular Malaysia, monsoonal season influenced microplastic transport and deposition rate with peak microplastic deposition during the Northeast monsoon due to higher wind speed. MP morphology combined with size fractionation and plastic type at the coastal sites indicated a role for long-range marine transport of MPs that subsequently provided a local marine source to the atmosphere at the coastal sites.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yet Yin Hee
- Institute of Oceanography and Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Malaysia.
| | - Norfazrin Mohd Hanif
- Department of Earth Sciences and Environment, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia
| | - Keith Weston
- Independent environmental consultant, Norwich, United Kingdom
| | - Mohd Talib Latif
- Department of Earth Sciences and Environment, Faculty of Science and Technology, Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia, Bangi, Malaysia
| | - Suhaimi Suratman
- Institute of Oceanography and Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Malaysia
| | - Mohd Uzair Rusli
- Institute of Oceanography and Environment, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Nerus, Malaysia
| | - Andrew G Mayes
- School of Chemistry, University of East Anglia, Norwich, United Kingdom
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57
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Yu X, Guo W, Duan J. The complete genome sequence of Peribacillus sp. R9-11 for genome mining of polystyrene degrading enzymes. Mar Genomics 2023; 72:101072. [PMID: 38008531 DOI: 10.1016/j.margen.2023.101072] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 10/16/2023] [Accepted: 10/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/28/2023]
Abstract
Peribacillus sp. R9-11, isolated from a marine sediment sample of the Arctic Ocean, can grow in mineral medium with polystyrene (PS) plastic as sole carbon source. Here, we present the complete genome of Peribacillus sp. R9-11, which will facilitate the genome mining of PS degrading enzymes. The total length of the sequenced genome consists of 6,288,471 bases, with mean G + C content of 37.93%. A total of 6447 coding genes including 84 tRNAs and 37 rRNAs were predicted in the genome. Some potential PS degrading enzymes including cytochrome P450s and peroxidases were found in this genome.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xue Yu
- School of Advanced Manufacturing, Fuzhou University, Jinjiang 362251, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Biogenetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361005, Fujian, China
| | - Wenbin Guo
- School of Advanced Manufacturing, Fuzhou University, Jinjiang 362251, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Biogenetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Xiamen 361005, Fujian, China.
| | - Jingjing Duan
- College of Environment and Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, Fujian, China.
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58
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Smith M, Singh H, Sherman JD. Infection Prevention, Planetary Health, and Single-Use Plastics. JAMA 2023; 330:1947-1948. [PMID: 37782511 DOI: 10.1001/jama.2023.20550] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Authors of this Viewpoint present actionable steps for regulatory, industry, and health care organization practices to accelerate reduction of single-use plastics and help protect planetary and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matthew Smith
- Center for Access & Delivery Research and Evaluation (CADRE), Iowa City Veterans Affairs Healthcare System, Iowa City, Iowa
- Division of Infectious Diseases, University of Iowa Carver College of Medicine, Iowa City
| | - Hardeep Singh
- Center for Innovations in Quality, Effectiveness and Safety, Michael E. DeBakey Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Houston, Texas
- Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, Texas
| | - Jodi D Sherman
- Department of Anesthesiology, Yale School of Medicine, New Haven, Connecticut
- Department of Environmental Health Sciences, Yale School of Public Health, New Haven, Connecticut
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59
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Kang E, Lee W, Lee H. Comprehensive Understanding of Self-Propelled Janus Pt/Fe 2O 3 Micromotor Dynamics: Impact of Size, Morphology, and Surface Structure. J Phys Chem Lett 2023; 14:9811-9818. [PMID: 37889127 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jpclett.3c02637] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 10/28/2023]
Abstract
The increasing use of plastics has led to the accumulation of plastic waste in the oceans, resulting in significant global environmental challenges associated with microplastic pollution. Micromotors, capable of capturing and removing microplastics from aquatic systems, have emerged as a promising solution to addressing this problem. This research aims to analyze the factors affecting the speed of micromotors, including size, morphology, and surface structure, while elucidating the underlying mechanisms governing micromotor propulsion to develop efficient and ecofriendly micromotors. In this study, we systematically manipulate various parameters by modifying the synthesis method of hematite-based micromotors, subsequently comparing their propulsion speeds and uncovering the precise role of these parameters in determining the micromotor performance. Furthermore, we shed light on the intricate interplay between drag force and propulsive force, demonstrating how these forces vary under different H2O2 conditions. These findings provide valuable insights into the design of efficient micromotors tailored for dynamic aquatic environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eunbi Kang
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Seoul, Seoul 02504, Republic of Korea
| | - Wanhee Lee
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Seoul, Seoul 02504, Republic of Korea
| | - Hyosun Lee
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Seoul, Seoul 02504, Republic of Korea
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60
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Saliu F, Compa M, Becchi A, Lasagni M, Collina E, Liconti A, Suma E, Deudero S, Grech D, Suaria G. Plastitar in the Mediterranean Sea: New records and the first geochemical characterization of these novel formations. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 196:115583. [PMID: 37769405 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115583] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/30/2023] [Revised: 09/16/2023] [Accepted: 09/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/30/2023]
Abstract
A new geological formation consisting of plastic debris admixed to petroleum oil residue, termed "plastitar", has been recently described in the Canary Islands. Here, we report its widespread occurrence across the Mediterranean coast and new insights into its biogeochemical composition. Specifically, we found marked differences in the diagenetic stable indicator profiles, suggesting a heterogeneous seeps provenance. Moreover, the 801 plastic particles found in the 1372 g of tar surveyed, with a maximum concentration of 2.0 items/g, showed interesting patterns in the tar mat, with nurdles predominantly layered in the external of the tar mat and lines in the inner core. Overall, the collected observation suggests that tar entraps plastics through a stepwise process and is a sink for them.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Saliu
- Earth and Environmental Science Department, University of Milano Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 1, 20126 Milano, Italy.
| | - Montserrat Compa
- Centro Oceanográfico de Baleares, (IEO, CSIC), Muelle de Poniente s/n, 07015 Mallorca, Spain
| | - Alessandro Becchi
- Earth and Environmental Science Department, University of Milano Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 1, 20126 Milano, Italy
| | - Marina Lasagni
- Earth and Environmental Science Department, University of Milano Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 1, 20126 Milano, Italy
| | - Elena Collina
- Earth and Environmental Science Department, University of Milano Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 1, 20126 Milano, Italy
| | - Arianna Liconti
- OutBe SRL, Genova, Italy; MBA, The Marine Biological Association, The Laboratory, Citadel Hill, Plymouth PL1 2PB, United Kingdom
| | | | - Salud Deudero
- Centro Oceanográfico de Baleares, (IEO, CSIC), Muelle de Poniente s/n, 07015 Mallorca, Spain
| | - Daniele Grech
- IMC - International Marine Centre, Loc. Sa Mardini, 09170, Torregrande, Oristano, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Suaria
- CNR-ISMAR, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto di Scienze Marine, Pozzuolo di Lerici, 19032 La Spezia, Italy
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61
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Guo W, Duan J, Shi Z, Yu X, Shao Z. Biodegradation of PET by the membrane-anchored PET esterase from the marine bacterium Rhodococcus pyridinivorans P23. Commun Biol 2023; 6:1090. [PMID: 37891241 PMCID: PMC10611731 DOI: 10.1038/s42003-023-05470-1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/29/2023] Open
Abstract
Evidence for microbial biodegradation of polyethylene terephthalate (PET) has been reported, but little is known about the PET biodegradation process and molecular mechanism by marine microorganisms. Here, we show the biodegradation of PET by the membrane-anchored PET esterase from the marine bacterium Rhodococcus pyridinivorans P23, elucidate the properties of this enzyme, and propose the PET biodegradation by this strain in biofilm. We identify the PET-degrading enzyme dubbed PET esterase through activity tracking. In addition to depolymerizing PET, it hydrolyzes MHET into TPA under acid conditions. We prove that it is a low and constitutively transcribed, membrane-anchored protein displayed on the cell surface. Furthermore, we also investigate the microbial groups possessing PET esterase coupled with the TPA degradation pathway, mainly in the phyla Proteobacteria and Actinobacteriota. Clarification of the microbial PET biodegradation in the marine environment will contribute to the understanding of bioremediation of marine PET pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenbin Guo
- Key Laboratory of Marine Biogenetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, 361005, Xiamen, Fujian, China.
| | - Jingjing Duan
- College of Environment and Ecology, Xiamen University, 361005, Xiamen, Fujian, China.
| | - Zhengguang Shi
- Key Laboratory of Marine Biogenetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, 361005, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- School of Advanced Manufacturing, Fuzhou University, 362251, Jinjiang, China
| | - Xue Yu
- Key Laboratory of Marine Biogenetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, 361005, Xiamen, Fujian, China
- School of Advanced Manufacturing, Fuzhou University, 362251, Jinjiang, China
| | - Zongze Shao
- Key Laboratory of Marine Biogenetic Resources, Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, 361005, Xiamen, Fujian, China
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Moreira-Mendieta A, Garcia-Garin O, Muñoz-Pérez JP, Urquía DO, Drago M, Borrell A, Páez-Rosas D. Detection and quantification of microplastic pollution in the endangered Galapagos sea lion. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 896:166223. [PMID: 37586531 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166223] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2023] [Revised: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 08/09/2023] [Indexed: 08/18/2023]
Abstract
Marine debris pollution poses a significant global threat to biodiversity, with plastics being the primary debris type found in oceans due to their low-cost production and high demand worldwide. Microplastics (MPs, <5 mm in size) are highly bioavailable to a wide range of marine taxa, including marine mammals, through direct and indirect ingestion routes (i.e., trophic transfer). Recently, MP pollution has been detected on the Galapagos Marine Reserve, so in this study we developed a baseline framework for MP pollution in the Galapagos sea lion (GSL, Zalophus wollebaeki) through scat-based analysis. We collected 180 GSL scat samples from the southeast region following strict quality assurance/quality control protocols to detect, quantify and characterize physical-chemical properties of MPs through visual observations and μFT-IR spectroscopy. We recovered 81 MPs of varying sizes and colors in 37 % of samples (n = 66/180), consisting mostly of fibers (69 %, x¯ = 0.31 ± 0.57 particles scat-1). The number of particles per gram of sample wet weight ranged from 0.02 to 0.22 (x¯ = 0.04 ± 0.05 particles scat wet g-1). El Malecón and Punta Pitt rookeries at San Cristobal Island had the highest number of MPs (x¯ = 0.67 ± 0.51 and 0.43 ± 0.41 particles scat-1, respectively), and blue-colored particles were the most common in all samples. We identified eleven polymers in 46 particles, consisting mostly of polypropylene-polyethylene copolymer, polypropylene, cellulose, polyethylene, and polyvinyl chloride. The textile, fishing, and packaging industries are likely significant sources of microfibers into this insular ecosystem. Our results suggest that the GSL is exposed to MPs due to anthropogenic contamination that is subsequently transferred through trophic processes. These findings provide an important baseline framework and insights for future research on MP pollution in the region, as well as for management actions that will contribute to the long-term conservation of the GSL.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrés Moreira-Mendieta
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Maestría en Ecología Tropical y Conservación, Diego de Robles s/n y Pampite, Quito, Ecuador; Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Galapagos Science Center, Av. Alsacio Northia s/n, Isla San Cristóbal, Galápagos, Ecuador.
| | - Odei Garcia-Garin
- Universitat de Barcelona, Department of Evolutionary Biology, Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Barcelona 08028, Spain; Universitat de Barcelona, Institute of Biodiversity Research (IRBio), Barcelona 08028, Spain
| | - Juan Pablo Muñoz-Pérez
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Galapagos Science Center, Av. Alsacio Northia s/n, Isla San Cristóbal, Galápagos, Ecuador; University of the Sunshine Coast UniSC, School of Science, Technology and Engineering, Hervey Bay, Queensland, Australia
| | - Diego O Urquía
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Maestría en Ecología Tropical y Conservación, Diego de Robles s/n y Pampite, Quito, Ecuador; Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Galapagos Science Center, Av. Alsacio Northia s/n, Isla San Cristóbal, Galápagos, Ecuador
| | - Massimiliano Drago
- Universitat de Barcelona, Department of Evolutionary Biology, Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Barcelona 08028, Spain; Universitat de Barcelona, Institute of Biodiversity Research (IRBio), Barcelona 08028, Spain
| | - Asunción Borrell
- Universitat de Barcelona, Department of Evolutionary Biology, Ecology and Environmental Sciences, Barcelona 08028, Spain; Universitat de Barcelona, Institute of Biodiversity Research (IRBio), Barcelona 08028, Spain
| | - Diego Páez-Rosas
- Universidad San Francisco de Quito USFQ, Galapagos Science Center, Av. Alsacio Northia s/n, Isla San Cristóbal, Galápagos, Ecuador; Dirección del Parque Nacional Galápagos, Unidad Técnica Operativa San Cristóbal, Isla San Cristóbal, Galápagos, Ecuador
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Feng Q, An C, Chen Z, Lee K, Wang Z. Identification of the driving factors of microplastic load and morphology in estuaries for improving monitoring and management strategies: A global meta-analysis. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 333:122014. [PMID: 37336353 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122014] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/05/2022] [Revised: 05/22/2023] [Accepted: 06/09/2023] [Indexed: 06/21/2023]
Abstract
Estuaries are one of the primary pathways for transferring microplastics (MPs) from the land to the ocean. A comprehensive understanding of the load, morphological characteristics, driving factors, and potential risks of MPs in estuaries is imperative to inform reliable management in this critical transboundary area. Extracted from 135 publications, a global meta-analysis comprising 1477 observations and 124 estuaries was conducted. MP abundance in estuaries was tremendously variable, reaching a mean of 21,342.43 ± 122,557.53 items/m3 in water and 1312.79 ± 6295.73 items/kg in sediment. Fibers and fragments take up a majority proportion in estuaries. Polyester, polypropylene, and polyethylene are the most detected MP types. Around 68.73% and 85.51% of MPs detected in water and sediment are smaller than 1 μm. The redundancy analysis revealed that the explanatory factors influencing the morphological characteristics of MPs differed between water and sediment. Regression analysis shows that MP abundance in water is significantly inversely correlated with mesh/filter size, per capita plastic waste, and the Human Development Index, whereas it is significantly positively correlated with population density and share of global mismanaged plastic waste. MP abundance in sediment significantly positively correlated with aridity index and probability of plastic entering the ocean, while significantly negatively correlated with mesh/filter size. Analysis based on Geodector identified that the extraction method, density of flotation fluid, and sampling depth are the top three explanatory factors for MP abundance in water, while the share of global mismanaged plastic waste, the probability of plastic being emitted into the ocean, and population density are the top three explanatory factors for MP abundance in sediment. In the studied estuaries, 46.75% of the water and 2.74% of the sediment are categorized into extremely high levels of pollution, while 73.08% of the water and 43.48% of the sediment belong to class V of the potential ecological index.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qi Feng
- Department of Building, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Concordia University, Montreal, H3G 1M8, Canada
| | - Chunjiang An
- Department of Building, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Concordia University, Montreal, H3G 1M8, Canada.
| | - Zhi Chen
- Department of Building, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Concordia University, Montreal, H3G 1M8, Canada
| | - Kenneth Lee
- Fisheries and Oceans Canada, Ecosystem Science, Ottawa, K1A 0E6, Canada
| | - Zheng Wang
- Department of Building, Civil and Environmental Engineering, Concordia University, Montreal, H3G 1M8, Canada
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64
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Clark L, Allen R, Botterell ZLR, Callejo B, Godley BJ, Henry C, Santillo D, Nelms SE. Using citizen science to understand floating plastic debris distribution and abundance: A case study from the North Cornish coast (United Kingdom). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 194:115314. [PMID: 37506480 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115314] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 07/13/2023] [Accepted: 07/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Citizen science is now commonly employed to collect data on plastic pollution and is recognised as a valuable tool for furthering our understanding of the issue. Few studies, however, use citizen science to gather information on water-borne plastic debris. Here, citizen scientists adopted a globally standardised methodology to sample the sea-surface for small (1-5 mm) floating plastic debris off the Cornish coast (UK). Twenty-eight trawls were conducted along five routes, intersecting two Marine Protected Areas. Of the 509 putative plastic items, fragments were most common (64 %), then line (19 %), foam (7 %), film (6 %), and pellets (4 %). Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy identified the most common polymer type as polyethylene (31 %), then nylon (12 %), polypropylene (8 %), polyamide (5 %) and polystyrene (3 %). This study provides the first globally comparative baseline of floating plastic debris for the region (mean: 8512 items km-2), whilst contributing to an international dataset aimed at understanding plastic abundance and distribution worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Liz Clark
- Newquay Marine Group, 54 Bezant Place, Newquay TR7 1SJ, UK
| | - Rebecca Allen
- Newquay University Centre, Cornwall College, Wildflower Lane, Newquay TR7 2LZ, UK
| | - Zara L R Botterell
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Cornwall TR10 9FE, UK
| | - Beatriz Callejo
- Greenpeace Research Laboratories, Innovation Centre Phase 2, University of Exeter, Devon, EX4 4RN, UK
| | - Brendan J Godley
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Cornwall TR10 9FE, UK
| | - Clare Henry
- Greenpeace Research Laboratories, Innovation Centre Phase 2, University of Exeter, Devon, EX4 4RN, UK
| | - David Santillo
- Greenpeace Research Laboratories, Innovation Centre Phase 2, University of Exeter, Devon, EX4 4RN, UK
| | - Sarah E Nelms
- Centre for Ecology and Conservation, University of Exeter, Cornwall TR10 9FE, UK.
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65
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Yose P, Thondhlana G, Fraser G. Conceptualizing the socio-cultural impacts of marine plastic pollution on human well-being - A perspective. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 194:115285. [PMID: 37459770 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115285] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 07/07/2023] [Accepted: 07/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/12/2023]
Abstract
Marine plastic pollution is one of the major environmental problems globally, with adverse impacts on human well-being but socio-cultural impacts remain poorly conceptualized and little understudied. This perspective paper argues for a more nuanced understanding of the socio-cultural dimensions of impacts beyond direct and quantitatively measured impacts. The paper provides a working definition of and a conceptual framework for categorizing the socio-cultural impacts of marine plastic pollution. It also highlights three dimensions of socio-cultural impacts (lifestyle, mental health, and cultural and heritage impacts), and characterizes and suggests ways socio-cultural impacts can be assessed and recognized. The paper is meant to provoke productive debate and policy and management options for addressing the impacts of marine plastic pollution in socially meaningful and equitable ways.
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Affiliation(s)
- Papama Yose
- Department of Environmental Science, Rhodes University, Makhanda 6140, South Africa
| | - Gladman Thondhlana
- Department of Environmental Science, Rhodes University, Makhanda 6140, South Africa.
| | - Gavin Fraser
- Department of Economics and Economic History, Rhodes University, Makhanda 6140, South Africa
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66
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Rodríguez B, López-Suárez P, Varo-Cruz N, Dack E, Rendall A, Siverio F, Siverio M, Rodríguez A. Use of marine debris as nest material by ospreys. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 194:115422. [PMID: 37632982 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115422] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/25/2023] [Revised: 08/12/2023] [Accepted: 08/14/2023] [Indexed: 08/28/2023]
Abstract
The use of anthropogenic debris as nest-building materials may affect nest function. We study ospreys (Pandion haliaetus) on an island with scarce vegetation and high availability of beached marine debris. We describe the anthropogenic debris in osprey nests, evaluate the factors affecting its prevalence and abundance, and test its potential effects on breeding parameters. We also quantify plastic entanglements among adults and nestlings. Of the 36 studied nests, 92 % included non-natural items, with plastic being the most frequent material (88.9 %). Nests that were bigger and closer to the coast had more anthropogenic items. The abundance of anthropogenic items in nests did not correlate with osprey breeding parameters. We recorded two live entangled adult females, which represent 3.9 % of the adult population. Monitoring the abundance of anthropogenic debris and its effects on wildlife is necessary to guarantee long-term viability of coastal wildlife.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beneharo Rodríguez
- Canary Islands' Ornithology and Natural History Group (GOHNIC), Buenavista del Norte, Canary Islands, Spain.
| | | | - Nuria Varo-Cruz
- Cetaceans and Marine Research Institute of the Canary Islands (CEAMAR), San Bartolomé, Canary Islands, Spain
| | - Ena Dack
- Bios.CV, Sal Rei, Boa Vista, Cabo Verde
| | - Aline Rendall
- Instituto Nacional de Investigação e Desenvolvimento Agrário (INIDA), São Jorge dos Órgãos, Santiago, Cabo Verde; Universidade de Cabo Verde (UniCV), Praia, Santiago, Cabo Verde
| | - Felipe Siverio
- Canary Islands' Ornithology and Natural History Group (GOHNIC), Buenavista del Norte, Canary Islands, Spain
| | - Manuel Siverio
- Canary Islands' Ornithology and Natural History Group (GOHNIC), Buenavista del Norte, Canary Islands, Spain
| | - Airam Rodríguez
- Departamento de Ecología Evolutiva, Museo Nacional de Ciencias Naturales, CSIC, Madrid, Spain
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67
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Erdle LM, Eriksen M. Monitor compartments, mitigate sectors: A framework to deconstruct the complexity of plastic pollution. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 193:115198. [PMID: 37392595 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2023] [Revised: 06/06/2023] [Accepted: 06/16/2023] [Indexed: 07/03/2023]
Abstract
The rapid growth in science, media, policymaking, and corporate action aimed at "solving" plastic pollution has revealed an overwhelming complexity, which can lead to paralysis, inaction, or a reliance on downstream mitigations. Plastic use is diverse - varied polymers, product and packaging design, pathways to the environment, and impacts - therefore there is no silver bullet solution. Policies addressing plastic pollution as a single phenomenon respond to this complexity with greater reliance on downstream mitigations, like recycling and cleanup. Here, we present a framework of dividing plastic use in society into sectors, which can be used to disentangle the complexity of plastic pollution and direct attention to upstream design for the circular economy. Monitoring plastic pollution in environmental compartments will continue to provide feedback on mitigations, but with a sector framework, scientists, industry, and policymakers can begin to shape actions to curb the harmful impacts of plastic pollution at the source.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lisa M Erdle
- 5 Gyres Institute, Los Angeles, California, United States of America.
| | - Marcus Eriksen
- 5 Gyres Institute, Los Angeles, California, United States of America.
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68
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Suaria G, Cappa P, Perold V, Aliani S, Ryan PG. Abundance and composition of small floating plastics in the eastern and southern sectors of the Atlantic Ocean. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 193:115109. [PMID: 37327719 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115109] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2023] [Revised: 05/24/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
We report the distribution of floating plastics in the eastern and southern sectors of the Atlantic Ocean based on 35 neuston net trawl samples collected during two research cruises in 2016 and 2017. Plastic particles (>200 μm) were found in 69% of net tows, with median densities of 1583 items·km-2 and 5.1 g·km-2. Most particles (80% of 158) were microplastics (<5 mm) of secondary origin (88%), followed by industrial pellets (5%), thin plastic films (4%) and lines/filaments (3%). Due to the large mesh size we used, textile fibers were not considered in this study. μFTIR analysis revealed that most particles found in the net were made of polyethylene (63%), followed by polypropylene (32%) and polystyrene (1%). A transect between 0 and 18°E along 35°S in the South Atlantic Ocean revealed higher densities farther west, supporting the accumulation of floating plastics in the South Atlantic gyre, mainly west of 10°E.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giuseppe Suaria
- CNR-ISMAR (Institute of Marine Sciences - National Research Council), Lerici 19032, La Spezia, Italy.
| | - Paolo Cappa
- Independent Researcher, Sommariva Perno 12040, Italy
| | - Vonica Perold
- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
| | - Stefano Aliani
- CNR-ISMAR (Institute of Marine Sciences - National Research Council), Lerici 19032, La Spezia, Italy
| | - Peter G Ryan
- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
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69
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Ambrose KK, Walker TR. Identifying opportunities for harmonized microplastics and mesoplastics monitoring for Caribbean Small Island Developing States using a spatiotemporal assessment of beaches in South Eleuthera, The Bahamas. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 193:115140. [PMID: 37321002 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115140] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2023] [Accepted: 06/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Increasing quantities of microplastics and mesoplastics in the marine environment underscore the need for marine microplastics to be included in the global Plastics Treaty to end plastic pollution. Caribbean Small Island Developing States (SIDS) lack harmonized microplastics monitoring protocols, leaving them data deficient at the science-policy interface required for treaty negotiations. This baseline study assessed spatial and seasonal abundance and distribution of microplastic (1-5 mm) and mesoplastic (5-25 mm) on 16 beaches with three coastal exposures (Atlantic Ocean, Exuma Sound, Bahama Bank) in South Eleuthera, The Bahamas and its implications for Caribbean SIDS. Microplastics were the dominant debris type sampled (74 %) across all beaches, with significant spatial (p = 0.0005) and seasonal (p = 0.0363) differences in abundance and distribution across study sites. This baseline study identifies opportunities required for developing harmonized microplastics and mesoplastics monitoring by Caribbean SIDS to collect data to help support global plastics treaty negotiations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kristal K Ambrose
- Closing the Circle: Marine Debris, Sargassum and Marine Spatial Planning Programme, World Maritime University, Malmö, Sweden; Bahamas Plastic Movement, Eleuthera, The Bahamas.
| | - Tony R Walker
- School for Resource and Environmental Studies, Dalhousie University, Halifax, Canada
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70
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Winton S, Roberts KP, Bowyer C, Fletcher S. Harnessing citizen science to tackle urban-sourced ocean plastic pollution: Experiences and lessons learned from implementing city-wide surveys of plastic litter. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 192:115116. [PMID: 37279612 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115116] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2023] [Revised: 05/20/2023] [Accepted: 05/27/2023] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Plastic litter is an endemic problem within all regions, particularly cities. Much of this litter reaches the world's oceans with well documented environmental impacts. However, the monitoring of urban litter is often piecemeal at best. Citizen science, the action of utilising the public to support research, has been used to excellent effect for both research and engagement, usually for area clean-ups such as beach cleans. However, to date very few studies have assessed plastic pollution at a city scale. This study presents a novel citizen science approach, using a smartphone application to collect geolocated photographs of plastic litter during 5 city-wide surveys. The study has compiled a significant dataset of photographs (n = 3760), classified by plastic type to assess patterns of plastic pollution Portsmouth, UK. The method is shown to have significant potential for further development to facilitate detailed analysis of plastic litter in urban centres across the world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Winton
- Global Plastics Policy Centre, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth PO1 2UP, UK; School of the Environment, Geography and Geosciences, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth PO1 2UP, UK.
| | - Keiron P Roberts
- Global Plastics Policy Centre, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth PO1 2UP, UK; School of Civil Engineering and Surveying, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth PO1 2UP, UK
| | - Cressida Bowyer
- Global Plastics Policy Centre, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth PO1 2UP, UK; School of Art, Design and Performance, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth PO1 2UP, UK
| | - Stephen Fletcher
- Global Plastics Policy Centre, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth PO1 2UP, UK; School of the Environment, Geography and Geosciences, University of Portsmouth, Portsmouth PO1 2UP, UK
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71
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Kiessling T, Hinzmann M, Mederake L, Dittmann S, Brennecke D, Böhm-Beck M, Knickmeier K, Thiel M. What potential does the EU Single-Use Plastics Directive have for reducing plastic pollution at coastlines and riversides? An evaluation based on citizen science data. WASTE MANAGEMENT (NEW YORK, N.Y.) 2023; 164:106-118. [PMID: 37044029 DOI: 10.1016/j.wasman.2023.03.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 03/15/2023] [Accepted: 03/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
To address environmental pollution by plastic litter, the European Union adopted EU Directive 2019/904, the so called "Single-Use Plastics Directive" (SUPD), which bans several single-use plastic products and addresses additional items with measures such as extended producer responsibility and obligatory requirements for product redesign. This study assessed the potential of the SUPD to reduce litter pollution in the environment with three scenarios. The "best case" scenario assumed that all measures of the SUPD completely prevent targeted items from getting into the environment. Another scenario assumed that no measures besides bans were effective. An intermediate scenario assumed partial effectiveness of measures. Data of almost 5,000 sampling events from citizen science protocols (Plastic Pirates, International Coastal Cleanup, Marine Litter Watch) and the OSPAR protocol were used to analyse litter at riversides and coastlines in Germany and the European Union. 44 to 68% of litter items in citizen science protocols consisted of single-use plastics (cigarette butts were the most prominent items). At coastlines sampled by the OSPAR protocol, fishing gear and undefined plastics prevailed. The scenario analysis revealed that substantial litter reductions could be achieved in the "best case" scenario (upwards of 40%), while the intermediate scenario resulted in litter reductions of 13 to 25%. The marginal effect of the "only bans" scenario achieved a reduction of 2-6% in Germany and the European Union, respectively. Thus, depending on implementation and enforcement, the current SUPD can be an important first step, yet further legislative actions are needed to effectively prevent plastic waste pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tim Kiessling
- Kiel Science Factory, Leibniz Institute for Science and Mathematics Education (IPN) and Kiel University, Am Botanischen Garten 16i, 24118 Kiel, Germany.
| | - Mandy Hinzmann
- Ecologic Institute. Pfalzburger Strasse 43/44, 10717 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Linda Mederake
- Ecologic Institute. Pfalzburger Strasse 43/44, 10717 Berlin, Germany.
| | - Sinja Dittmann
- Kiel Science Factory, Leibniz Institute for Science and Mathematics Education (IPN) and Kiel University, Am Botanischen Garten 16i, 24118 Kiel, Germany.
| | - Dennis Brennecke
- Kiel Science Factory, Leibniz Institute for Science and Mathematics Education (IPN) and Kiel University, Am Botanischen Garten 16i, 24118 Kiel, Germany.
| | - Marianne Böhm-Beck
- Kiel Science Factory, Leibniz Institute for Science and Mathematics Education (IPN) and Kiel University, Am Botanischen Garten 16i, 24118 Kiel, Germany.
| | - Katrin Knickmeier
- Kiel Science Factory, Leibniz Institute for Science and Mathematics Education (IPN) and Kiel University, Am Botanischen Garten 16i, 24118 Kiel, Germany.
| | - Martin Thiel
- Departamento de Biología Marina, Universidad Católica del Norte, Larrondo 1281, Coquimbo, Chile; Center for Ecology and Sustainable Management of Oceanic Islands, Facultad de Ciencias del Mar, Universidad Católica del Norte, Larrondo 1281, Coquimbo, Chile; Centro de Estudios Avanzados en Zonas Áridas (CEAZA), Coquimbo, Chile.
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