101
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Waldschläger K, Schüttrumpf H. Effects of Particle Properties on the Settling and Rise Velocities of Microplastics in Freshwater under Laboratory Conditions. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2019; 53:1958-1966. [PMID: 30688437 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.8b06794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 163] [Impact Index Per Article: 32.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) contaminates terrestrial, aquatic, and atmospheric environments. Although the number of river sampling studies with regard to MP concentrations is increasing, comprehension of the predominant transport processes of MP in the watercourse is still very limited. In order to gain a better process understanding, around 500 physical experiments were conducted to shed more light on the effects of particle shape, size and density on the rise and settling velocities of MP. The determined velocities ranged between 0.39 cm/s for polyamide fibers (settling) and 31.4 cm/s for expanded polystyrene pellets (rise). Subsequently, the determined velocities were compared with formulas from sediment transport and, as there were large differences between theoretically and experimentally determined velocities, own formulas were developed to describe settling and rise velocities of MP particles with a large variety of shapes, sizes and densities. This study shows that MP differs significantly from sediment in its behavior and that a transfer of common sediment transport formulas should be treated with caution. Furthermore, the established formulas can now be used in numerical simulations to describe the settling and rising of MP more precisely.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kryss Waldschläger
- RWTH Aachen University , Institute of Hydraulic Engineering and Water Resources Management , Mies-van-der-Rohe-Straße 17 , 52056 Aachen , Germany
| | - Holger Schüttrumpf
- RWTH Aachen University , Institute of Hydraulic Engineering and Water Resources Management , Mies-van-der-Rohe-Straße 17 , 52056 Aachen , Germany
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102
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Plastic Accumulation in the Sea Surface Microlayer: An Experiment-Based Perspective for Future Studies. GEOSCIENCES 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/geosciences9020066] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/13/2023]
Abstract
Plastic particles are ubiquitous in the marine environment. Given their low density, they have the tendency to float on the sea surface, with possible impacts on the sea surface microlayer (SML). The SML is an enriched biofilm of marine organic matter, that plays a key role in biochemical and photochemical processes, as well as controlling gas exchange between the ocean and the atmosphere. Recent studies indicate that plastics can interfere with the microbial cycling of carbon. However, studies on microplastic accumulation in the SML are limited, and their effects on organic matter cycling in the surface ocean are poorly understood. To explore potential dynamics in this key ocean compartment, we ran a controlled experiment with standard microplastics in the surface and bulk water of a marine monoculture. Bacterial abundance, chromophoric dissolved organic matter (CDOM), and oxygen concentrations were measured. The results indicate an accumulation of CDOM in the SML and immediate underlying water when microplastic particles are present, as well as an enhanced oxygen consumption. If extrapolated to a typical marine environment, this indicates that alterations in the quality and reactivity of the organic components of the SML could be expected. This preliminary study shows the need for a more integrated effort to our understanding the impact of microplastics on SML functioning and marine biological processes.
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103
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Atwood EC, Falcieri FM, Piehl S, Bochow M, Matthies M, Franke J, Carniel S, Sclavo M, Laforsch C, Siegert F. Coastal accumulation of microplastic particles emitted from the Po River, Northern Italy: Comparing remote sensing and hydrodynamic modelling with in situ sample collections. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2019; 138:561-574. [PMID: 30660307 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.11.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 60] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2018] [Revised: 09/21/2018] [Accepted: 11/19/2018] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic research has mainly concentrated on open seas, while riverine plumes remain largely unexplored despite their hypothesized importance as a microplastic source to coastal waters. This work aimed to model coastal accumulation of microplastic particles (1-5 mm) emitted by the Po River over 1.5 years. We posit that river-induced microplastic accumulation on adjacent coasts can be predicted using (1) hydrodynamic-based and (2) remote sensing-based modelling. Model accumulation maps were validated against sampling at nine beaches, with sediment microplastic concentrations up to 78 particles/kg (dry weight). Hydrodynamic modelling revealed that discharged particle amount is only semi-coupled to beaching rates, which are strongly mouth dependent and occur within the first ten days. Remote sensing modelling was found to better capture river mouth relative strength, and accumulation patterns were found consistent with hydrodynamic modelling. This methodology lays groundwork for developing an operational monitoring system to assess microplastic pollution emitted by a major river.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elizabeth C Atwood
- RSS Remote Sensing Solutions GmbH, Isarstr. 3, 82065 Baierbrunn, Germany; Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, GeoBio-Center, Großhadernerstr. 2, 82152 Martinsried, Planegg, Germany.
| | - Francesco M Falcieri
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche - Istituto di Scienze Marine (CNR-ISMAR), Arsenale-Tesa 104, Castello 2737/F, 30122 Venezia, Italy
| | - Sarah Piehl
- University Bayreuth, Dept. Animal Ecology I, Universitätsstr. 30, 95440 Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Mathias Bochow
- University Bayreuth, Dept. Animal Ecology I, Universitätsstr. 30, 95440 Bayreuth, Germany; Helmholtz Centre Potsdam - GFZ German Research Centre for Geosciences, Telegrafenberg, 14473 Potsdam, Germany
| | - Michael Matthies
- University of Osnabrück, Institute of Environmental Systems Research, Barbarastr. 12, 49069 Osnabrück, Germany
| | - Jonas Franke
- RSS Remote Sensing Solutions GmbH, Isarstr. 3, 82065 Baierbrunn, Germany
| | - Sandro Carniel
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche - Istituto di Scienze Marine (CNR-ISMAR), Arsenale-Tesa 104, Castello 2737/F, 30122 Venezia, Italy
| | - Mauro Sclavo
- Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche - Istituto di Scienze Marine (CNR-ISMAR), Arsenale-Tesa 104, Castello 2737/F, 30122 Venezia, Italy
| | - Christian Laforsch
- University Bayreuth, Dept. Animal Ecology I, Universitätsstr. 30, 95440 Bayreuth, Germany
| | - Florian Siegert
- RSS Remote Sensing Solutions GmbH, Isarstr. 3, 82065 Baierbrunn, Germany; Ludwig-Maximilians-Universität Munich, GeoBio-Center, Großhadernerstr. 2, 82152 Martinsried, Planegg, Germany
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104
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Li Y, Wolanski E, Dai Z, Lambrechts J, Tang C, Zhang H. Trapping of plastics in semi-enclosed seas: Insights from the Bohai Sea, China. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 137:509-517. [PMID: 30503462 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.10.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2018] [Revised: 10/14/2018] [Accepted: 10/15/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are abundant in semi-enclosed seas, presumably because of local trapping. To investigate this trapping effect, we confronted the SLIM plastic oceanography model with field data of the distribution of microplastics in the Bohai Sea, China. Seven source locations were selected to reveal the fate of plastic debris from industrial and domestic usages. The model predictions compared well with the observed distribution of microplastics, highlighting that most plastics were trapped in the Bohai Sea. The model suggests that microplastics distribution within the Bohai Sea both in the water and on the bottom varies seasonally with wind and currents and depends on a complex interaction between source locations, prevailing hydrodynamic conditions, degradation, settling and resuspension rates. Further field studies are warranted to enable the models to better parameterize the fate of microplastics, and particularly the accumulation zones, in other poorly flushed semi-enclosed seas worldwide, where microplastics should be classified as a persistent pollutant.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanfang Li
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shandong, China.
| | - Eric Wolanski
- TropWATER and College of Science and Engineering, James Cook University, Townsville, Qld 4810, Australia
| | - Zhenfei Dai
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shandong, China
| | - Jonathan Lambrechts
- Catholic University of Louvain, Institute of Mechanics, Materials and Civil Engineering (IMMC), B-1348 Louvain-la-Neuve, Belgium
| | - Cheng Tang
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shandong, China
| | - Hua Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Zone Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shandong, China
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105
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Dai Z, Zhang H, Zhou Q, Tian Y, Chen T, Tu C, Fu C, Luo Y. Occurrence of microplastics in the water column and sediment in an inland sea affected by intensive anthropogenic activities. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2018; 242:1557-1565. [PMID: 30082155 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2018.07.131] [Citation(s) in RCA: 173] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Revised: 07/26/2018] [Accepted: 07/30/2018] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics may lose buoyancy and occur in deeper waters and ultimately sink to the sediment and this may threaten plankton inhabiting in various water layers and benthic organisms. Here, we conduct the first survey on microplastics in the water column and corresponding sediment in addition to the surface water in the Bohai Sea. A total of 20 stations covering whole Bohai Sea were selected, which included 6 stations specified for water column studying. Seawater was sampled every 5 m, with maximal depth of 30 m in the water column using Niskin bottles coupled with a ship-based conductivity, temperature and depth sensor (CTD) system and surface sediment samples were collected using box corer. The results indicated that higher microplastic levels accumulated at a depth range of 5-15 m in the water column in some stations, suggesting the surface water survey was not sufficient to reflect microplastics loading in a water body. Fibers predominated microplastic types in both seawater and sediment of the Bohai Sea, which accounted for 75%-96.4% of the total microplastics. However the relatively proportion of the fibers in the deeper water layers and sediment was lower than that in the surface water. Microplastic shapes are more diverse in the sediment than in the seawater in general. The microplastic sizes changed with depth in the water column and the proportion of the size-fraction < 300 μm increased with depth, probably as a result of rapid biofouling on the small microplastics due to their higher specific surface area. Such depth distribution also implied that sampling with manta net (>330 μm) that commonly used in the oceanographic survey might underestimate microplastics abundance in the water column. Further studies are recommended to focus on the sinking behavior of microplastics and their effects on marine organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenfei Dai
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai 264003, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Haibo Zhang
- School of Environment and Resources, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou 311300, China.
| | - Qian Zhou
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai 264003, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yuan Tian
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai 264003, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Tao Chen
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai 264003, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Chen Tu
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai 264003, China
| | - Chuancheng Fu
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai 264003, China; University of the Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yongming Luo
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Yantai 264003, China; Nanjing Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
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106
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Everaert G, Van Cauwenberghe L, De Rijcke M, Koelmans AA, Mees J, Vandegehuchte M, Janssen CR. Risk assessment of microplastics in the ocean: Modelling approach and first conclusions. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2018; 242:1930-1938. [PMID: 30061084 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2018.07.069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 223] [Impact Index Per Article: 37.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Revised: 07/13/2018] [Accepted: 07/16/2018] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
We performed an environmental risk assessment for microplastics (<5 mm) in the marine environment by estimating the order of magnitude of the past, present and future concentrations based on global plastic production data. In 2100, from 9.6 to 48.8 particles m-3 are predicted to float around in the ocean, which is a 50-fold increase compared to the present-day concentrations. From a meta-analysis with effect data available in literature, we derived a safe concentration of 6650 buoyant particles m-3 below which adverse effects are not likely to occur. Our risk assessment (excluding the potential role of microplastics as chemical vectors) suggests that on average, no direct effects of free-floating microplastics in the marine environment are to be expected up to the year 2100. Yet, even today, the safe concentration can be exceeded in sites that are heavily polluted with buoyant microplastics. In the marine benthic compartment between 32 and 144 particles kg-1 dry sediment are predicted to be present in the beach deposition zone. Despite the scarcity of effect data, we expect adverse ecological effects along the coast as of the second half of the 21st century. From then ambient concentrations will start to outrange the safe concentration of sedimented microplastics (i.e. 540 particles kg-1 sediment). Additional ecotoxicological research in which marine species are chronically exposed to realistic environmental microplastic concentration series are urgently needed to verify our findings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gert Everaert
- Flanders Marine Institute, Wandelaarkaai 7, B-8400, Ostend, Belgium.
| | - Lisbeth Van Cauwenberghe
- Ghent University, Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Aquatic Ecology, Coupure Links 653, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
| | | | - Albert A Koelmans
- Wageningen University, Aquatic Ecology and Water Quality Management Group, P.O. Box 8080, 6700 DD, Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Jan Mees
- Flanders Marine Institute, Wandelaarkaai 7, B-8400, Ostend, Belgium
| | | | - Colin R Janssen
- Ghent University, Laboratory of Environmental Toxicology and Aquatic Ecology, Coupure Links 653, B-9000, Ghent, Belgium
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107
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Zeri C, Adamopoulou A, Bojanić Varezić D, Fortibuoni T, Kovač Viršek M, Kržan A, Mandic M, Mazziotti C, Palatinus A, Peterlin M, Prvan M, Ronchi F, Siljic J, Tutman P, Vlachogianni T. Floating plastics in Adriatic waters (Mediterranean Sea): From the macro- to the micro-scale. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 136:341-350. [PMID: 30509816 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.09.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 59] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2018] [Revised: 09/07/2018] [Accepted: 09/10/2018] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Macro- and microplastics abundances were determined in the Adriatic Sea following the MSFD TG10 protocol. The studied areas included populated gulfs, river outlets and offshore waters in five Adriatic countries. The use of small ships enabled us to detect small sized plastics (2.5-5 cm) and record average macroplastics densities of 251 ± 601 items km-2, one order of magnitude higher than previously considered. Results from manta net tows for microplastics revealed an average abundance of 315,009 ± 568,578 items km-2 (217 ± 575 g km-2). We found significantly higher microplastics abundances in nearshore (≤4 km) than in offshore waters (>4 km) and this trend seems to affect also the small sized macro plastic fragments (2.5-5 cm). The dominant polymers were polyethylene and polypropylene while the presence of some rare polymers and waxes used in food and dentistry indicated waste water treatment plants as potential sources of microplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Zeri
- Hellenic Centre for Marine Research (HCMR), Greece.
| | | | | | - T Fortibuoni
- Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA), Italy; National Institute for Oceanography and Experimental Geophysics (OGS), Italy
| | - M Kovač Viršek
- Institute for Water of the Republic of Slovenia (IWRS), Slovenia
| | - A Kržan
- National Institute of Chemistry (NIC), Slovenia
| | - M Mandic
- Institute of Marine Biology (IMBK), Montenegro
| | - C Mazziotti
- Regional Agency for Environmental Prevention and Energy in the Emilia-Romagna region (ARPAE), Italy
| | - A Palatinus
- Institute for Water of the Republic of Slovenia (IWRS), Slovenia
| | - M Peterlin
- Institute for Water of the Republic of Slovenia (IWRS), Slovenia
| | - M Prvan
- WWF Adria, Zelinska 2, 10 000, Zagreb, Croatia
| | - F Ronchi
- Italian National Institute for Environmental Protection and Research (ISPRA), Italy
| | - J Siljic
- Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries (IOF), Croatia
| | - P Tutman
- Institute of Oceanography and Fisheries (IOF), Croatia
| | - Th Vlachogianni
- Mediterranean Information Office for Environment, Culture and Sustainable Development (MIO-ECSDE), Greece
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108
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Garaba SP, Aitken J, Slat B, Dierssen HM, Lebreton L, Zielinski O, Reisser J. Sensing Ocean Plastics with an Airborne Hyperspectral Shortwave Infrared Imager. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2018; 52:11699-11707. [PMID: 30249095 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.8b02855] [Citation(s) in RCA: 21] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Here, we present a proof-of-concept on remote sensing of ocean plastics using airborne shortwave infrared (SWIR) imagery. We captured red, green, and blue (RGB) and hyperspectral SWIR imagery with equipment mounted on a C-130 aircraft surveying the "Great Pacific Garbage Patch" at a height of 400 m and a speed of 140 knots. We recorded the position, size, color, and type (container, float, ghost net, rope, and unknown) of every plastic piece identified in the RGB mosaics. We then selected the top 30 largest items within each of our plastic type categories (0.6-6.8 m in length) to investigate SWIR spectral information obtained with a SASI-600 imager (950-2450 nm). Our analyses revealed unique SWIR spectral features common to plastics. The SWIR spectra obtained ( N = 118 items) were quite similar both in magnitude and shape. Nonetheless, some spectral variability was observed, likely influenced by differences in the object optical properties, the level of water submersion, and an intervening atmosphere. Our simulations confirmed that the ∼1215 and ∼1732 nm absorption features have potential applications in detecting ocean plastics from spectral information. We explored the potential of SWIR remote sensing technology for detecting and quantifying ocean plastics, thus provide relevant information to those developing better monitoring solutions for ocean plastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shungudzemwoyo P Garaba
- The Ocean Cleanup Foundation , Batavierenstraat 15 , Rotterdam 3014 JH , Netherlands
- Department of Marine Sciences, Avery Point Campus , University of Connecticut , 1080 Shennecossett Road , Groton , Connecticut 06340 , United States
- Marine Sensor Systems Group, Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment , Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg , Schleusenstraße 1 , Wilhelmshaven 26382 , Germany
| | - Jen Aitken
- The Ocean Cleanup Foundation , Batavierenstraat 15 , Rotterdam 3014 JH , Netherlands
- Teledyne Optech Inc. , 7225 Stennis Airport Road #300 , Kiln , Mississippi 39556 , United States
| | - Boyan Slat
- The Ocean Cleanup Foundation , Batavierenstraat 15 , Rotterdam 3014 JH , Netherlands
| | - Heidi M Dierssen
- Department of Marine Sciences, Avery Point Campus , University of Connecticut , 1080 Shennecossett Road , Groton , Connecticut 06340 , United States
| | - Laurent Lebreton
- The Ocean Cleanup Foundation , Batavierenstraat 15 , Rotterdam 3014 JH , Netherlands
- The Modelling House , 3 Bay View Road , Raglan 3225 , New Zealand
| | - Oliver Zielinski
- Marine Sensor Systems Group, Institute for Chemistry and Biology of the Marine Environment , Carl von Ossietzky University of Oldenburg , Schleusenstraße 1 , Wilhelmshaven 26382 , Germany
| | - Julia Reisser
- The Ocean Cleanup Foundation , Batavierenstraat 15 , Rotterdam 3014 JH , Netherlands
- Australian Institute of Marine Science, Indian Ocean Marine Research Centre , 39 Fairway , Perth 6009 , Australia
- Red Sea Research Center , King Abdullah University of Science and Technology , Thuwal 23955 , Saudi Arabia
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109
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Polystyrene microplastics increase microbial release of marine Chromophoric Dissolved Organic Matter in microcosm experiments. Sci Rep 2018; 8:14635. [PMID: 30279474 PMCID: PMC6168505 DOI: 10.1038/s41598-018-32805-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 36] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/21/2018] [Accepted: 09/15/2018] [Indexed: 02/03/2023] Open
Abstract
About 5 trillion plastic particles are present in our oceans, from the macro to the micro size. Like any other aquatic particulate, plastics and microplastics can create a micro-environment, within which microbial and chemical conditions differ significantly from the surrounding water. Despite the high and increasing abundance of microplastics in the ocean, their influence on the transformation and composition of marine organic matter is largely unknown. Chromophoric dissolved organic matter (CDOM) is the photo-reactive fraction of the marine dissolved organic matter (DOM) pool. Changes in CDOM quality and quantity have impacts on marine microbial dynamics and the underwater light environment. One major source of CDOM is produced by marine bacteria through their alteration of pre-existing DOM substrates. In a series of microcosm experiments in controlled marine conditions, we explored the impact of microplastics on the quality and quantity of microbial CDOM. In the presence of microplastics we observed an increased production of CDOM with changes in its molecular weight, which resulted from either an increased microbial CDOM production or an enhanced transformation of DOM from lower to higher molecular weight CDOM. Our results point to the possibility that marine microplastics act as localized hot spots for microbial activity, with the potential to influence marine carbon dynamics.
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110
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Goddijn-Murphy L, Dufaur J. Proof of concept for a model of light reflectance of plastics floating on natural waters. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 135:1145-1157. [PMID: 30301013 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.08.044] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/30/2018] [Revised: 08/20/2018] [Accepted: 08/20/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Remote sensing of plastic littering natural waters is an emerging field of science with the potential to provide observations on local to global scales. We present the verification of a theoretical reflectance model of sunlight interacting with a water surface littered with buoyant plastic objects. We measured a few common litter items of different polymers as well as shapes, transparencies, and surface roughnesses. Spectral reflectance measurements in the field were backed up with measurements in the laboratory of coefficients of total and diffuse reflectance, transmittance and absorption. We evaluated a single-band algorithm for 850 nm wavelength and a dual-band algorithm using a second wavelength at a polymer absorption band between 1660 and 1730 nm. Both algorithms were plastic litter type specific. Our findings show that for interpreting spectral remote sensing of floating plastic, physical properties that control geometrical optics should complement information about the absorption spectra of the polymer.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Juvenal Dufaur
- Environmental Research Institute, UHI-NHC, Thurso, Scotland, UK
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111
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White EM, Clark S, Manire CA, Crawford B, Wang S, Locklin J, Ritchie BW. Ingested Micronizing Plastic Particle Compositions and Size Distributions within Stranded Post-Hatchling Sea Turtles. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2018; 52:10307-10316. [PMID: 30118591 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.8b02776] [Citation(s) in RCA: 29] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
From July 2015 to November 2016, 96 post-hatchling sea turtles were collected from 118 km of the Atlantic coastline in Florida, USA, including loggerhead, green, and hawksbill sea turtle species. Forty-five of the recovered turtles were rehabilitated and released, but the remaining 52 died and were frozen. At necropsy, the gastrointestinal tracts of most the turtles contained visible plastic, and collected particles of 27 individuals were chemically characterized by Raman microscopy as polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, and polystyrene. Mesoparticle plastic fragments 1.0-8.7 mm, microparticle fragments 20-1000 μm, and nanoparticles 5-169 nm were identified in the turtles. Polyethylene and polypropylene were the most common plastics ingested from specimens representing 54.1 and 23.7% of the total observed mesoparticles and 11.7 and 21.0% of the total observed microparticles, respectively. A plastic-to-body mass ratio of 2.07 mg/g was determined for this group. The authors suggest that ingestion of micronizing plastic by post-hatchling sea turtles is likely a substantial risk to survival of these endangered and threatened species. This study also provides some of the first evidence for the formation of nanoscopic plastic particles that we theorize forms in the post-hatchling and juvenile environment and are present post-ingestion.
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Affiliation(s)
- Evan M White
- New Materials Institute , University of Georgia , Athens , Georgia 30602 , United States
- Department of Small Animal Medicine and Surgery , University of Georgia , Athens , Georgia 30602 , United States
| | - Samantha Clark
- Loggerhead Marinelife Center , Juno Beach , Florida 33408 , United States
| | - Charles A Manire
- Loggerhead Marinelife Center , Juno Beach , Florida 33408 , United States
| | - Benjamin Crawford
- Department of Chemistry , University of Georgia , Athens , Georgia 30602 , United States
| | - Shunli Wang
- New Materials Institute , University of Georgia , Athens , Georgia 30602 , United States
- College of Engineering , University of Georgia , Athens , Georgia 30602 , United States
| | - Jason Locklin
- New Materials Institute , University of Georgia , Athens , Georgia 30602 , United States
- College of Engineering , University of Georgia , Athens , Georgia 30602 , United States
- Department of Chemistry , University of Georgia , Athens , Georgia 30602 , United States
| | - Branson W Ritchie
- New Materials Institute , University of Georgia , Athens , Georgia 30602 , United States
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112
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Cai M, He H, Liu M, Li S, Tang G, Wang W, Huang P, Wei G, Lin Y, Chen B, Hu J, Cen Z. Lost but can't be neglected: Huge quantities of small microplastics hide in the South China Sea. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 633:1206-1216. [PMID: 29758873 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.03.197] [Citation(s) in RCA: 171] [Impact Index Per Article: 28.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2018] [Revised: 03/17/2018] [Accepted: 03/17/2018] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
Large quantities of microplastics with small particle sizes were found in the South China Sea (SCS). The abundances of microplastics in seawater were 0.045±0.093and 2569±1770particles/m3 according to the bongo net and pumping sampling methods, respectively. Smaller-size fractions (size<0.3mm) contributed 92% of the number of microplastics to the total load. Continental slope is the largest reservoir of microplastics with an inventory of 295tons. 21 polymer types were found in the samples using the micro Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), among which alkyds (22.5%) and polycaprolactone (PCL) (20.9%) accounted for almost half of the total polymer content. Lighter plastics would not only concentrate upon the coastal area, being more likely to drift further into open seas with ocean currents. The distribution characteristics showed that it was mainly controlled by terrestrial input of the Pearl River. This study, as the first report from SCS on microplastics in water for its distribution and influence factors, provided impetus for further research on the transportation fate and the behavior of this emerging pollutant from coastal zone to the open oceans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Minggang Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; Coastal and Ocean Management Institute, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China; College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China.
| | - Haixia He
- Coastal and Ocean Management Institute, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Mengyang Liu
- College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Siwei Li
- College of Materials, Fujian Key Laboratory of Advanced Materials, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Guowen Tang
- College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Weimin Wang
- College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Peng Huang
- College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Ge Wei
- School of Humanities, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Yan Lin
- College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Bin Chen
- Coastal and Ocean Management Institute, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Jiahui Hu
- College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
| | - Zhengnan Cen
- College of Ocean and Earth Sciences, Xiamen University, Xiamen 361102, China
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113
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Baini M, Fossi MC, Galli M, Caliani I, Campani T, Finoia MG, Panti C. Abundance and characterization of microplastics in the coastal waters of Tuscany (Italy): The application of the MSFD monitoring protocol in the Mediterranean Sea. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 133:543-552. [PMID: 30041348 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.06.016] [Citation(s) in RCA: 98] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2018] [Revised: 06/04/2018] [Accepted: 06/06/2018] [Indexed: 05/17/2023]
Abstract
Monitoring efforts are required to understand the sources, distribution and abundance of microplastic pollution. To verify the abundance of microplastics along the Tuscan coastal waters (Italy), water-column and surface samples were collected in two seasons across four transects at different distances to the coast (0.5, 5, 10 and 20 km), within the implementation of the European Marine Strategy Framework Directive. The results show an average concentration of 0.26 items/m3 in the water-column samples and 41.1 g/km2 and 69,161.3 items/km2 of floating microplastics, with an increase with the distance to the coast The seasonality and the sampling area do not affect the abundance of microplastics. The most abundant size class is 1-2.5 mm as fragments and sheets suggesting that fragmentation of larger polyethylene and polypropylene items could be the main source of microplastics. These data represent the application of a harmonized protocol to make the data on microplastics comparable and reliable.
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Affiliation(s)
- Matteo Baini
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via P.A. Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy; National Inter-University Consortium for Marine Sciences, CoNISMa, ULR Siena, Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00182 Roma, Italy.
| | - Maria Cristina Fossi
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via P.A. Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy; National Inter-University Consortium for Marine Sciences, CoNISMa, ULR Siena, Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00182 Roma, Italy
| | - Matteo Galli
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via P.A. Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy; National Inter-University Consortium for Marine Sciences, CoNISMa, ULR Siena, Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00182 Roma, Italy
| | - Ilaria Caliani
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via P.A. Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy; National Inter-University Consortium for Marine Sciences, CoNISMa, ULR Siena, Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00182 Roma, Italy
| | - Tommaso Campani
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via P.A. Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy; National Inter-University Consortium for Marine Sciences, CoNISMa, ULR Siena, Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00182 Roma, Italy
| | - Maria Grazia Finoia
- ISPRA, Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Via V. Brancati 48, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina Panti
- Department of Physical Sciences, Earth and Environment, University of Siena, Via P.A. Mattioli 4, 53100 Siena, Italy; National Inter-University Consortium for Marine Sciences, CoNISMa, ULR Siena, Piazzale Flaminio 9, 00182 Roma, Italy
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114
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Cheung PK, Fok L, Hung PL, Cheung LTO. Spatio-temporal comparison of neustonic microplastic density in Hong Kong waters under the influence of the Pearl River Estuary. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2018; 628-629:731-739. [PMID: 29454213 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2018.01.338] [Citation(s) in RCA: 93] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/22/2017] [Revised: 01/30/2018] [Accepted: 01/31/2018] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Rivers are recognised as an important source of plastic debris in the open sea. The Pearl River in China is estimated to transport 0.1milliontonnes of plastic waste to the open sea annually. However, no empirical study has been conducted to assess the plastic contamination levels in the Pearl River Estuary. Hong Kong is situated in the east of the Pearl River Estuary; its western waters are strongly influenced by river discharge, whereas the eastern waters are unaffected by the freshwater plume. In this study, we quantified the neustonic plastic debris density in the western and eastern waters of Hong Kong. The mean microplastic (0.355-4.749mm) and large plastic debris (≥4.75mm) densities in the western side were 3.627 and 0.758n/m3, respectively. Seasonal comparisons indicated that both size classes of plastic debris were significantly more abundant by number in the rainy season than the dry season (p<0.001). However, the influence of rivers on plastic density at the sea surface may be highly restricted to the estuarine delta, as no significant spatial difference was found between the western and eastern waters.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pui Kwan Cheung
- Department of Geography, University of Hong Kong, Pokfulam Road, Hong Kong SAR, China.
| | - Lincoln Fok
- Department of Science and Environmental Studies, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
| | - Pui Lam Hung
- Department of Social Sciences, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
| | - Lewis T O Cheung
- Department of Social Sciences, The Education University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong SAR, China.
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115
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Schneider F, Parsons S, Clift S, Stolte A, McManus MC. Collected marine litter - A growing waste challenge. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 128:162-174. [PMID: 29571359 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.01.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 49] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2017] [Revised: 12/15/2017] [Accepted: 01/06/2018] [Indexed: 05/19/2023]
Abstract
Marine litter, in particular plastic debris, poses a serious threat to marine life, human health and the economy. In order to reduce its impact, marine litter collections such as beach clean-ups are frequently conducted. This paper presents a systematic review of temporal developments, geographical distribution, quantities and waste treatment pathways of collected marine litter. Results from over 130 studies and projects highlight the worldwide increase in collection efforts. Many of these are in wealthy countries that do not primarily contribute to the problem. Over 250 thousand tonnes, have already been removed, but there is little or no information available regarding how this waste is treated or used post collection. This paper highlights the need for a whole-system quantitative assessment for the collection and waste treatment of marine litter, and identifies the challenges associated with utilising this waste in the future.
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Affiliation(s)
- Falk Schneider
- University of Bath, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Claverton Down BA2 7AY, United Kingdom.
| | - Sophie Parsons
- University of Bath, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Claverton Down BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
| | - Sally Clift
- University of Bath, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Claverton Down BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
| | - Andrea Stolte
- WWF Germany, WWF-Ostseebüro, Knieperwall 1, 18439 Stralsund, Germany
| | - Marcelle C McManus
- University of Bath, Department of Mechanical Engineering, Claverton Down BA2 7AY, United Kingdom
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116
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Vélez-Rubio GM, Teryda N, Asaroff PE, Estrades A, Rodriguez D, Tomás J. Differential impact of marine debris ingestion during ontogenetic dietary shift of green turtles in Uruguayan waters. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 127:603-611. [PMID: 29475703 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.12.053] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/07/2017] [Revised: 12/16/2017] [Accepted: 12/20/2017] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Anthropogenic debris ingestion has been reported for green turtles in all their life stages worldwide. The aim of the present study is to evaluate the marine debris ingestion by green turtles stranded in Uruguayan coast between 2005 and 2013. Debris items were categorized and quantified by frequency of occurrence, relative weight, volume and number of items. A total of 96 dead stranded turtles were analyzed and 70% presented debris in their guts. The majority of debris found were plastic, being hard plastics the most abundant in weight. We found no differences in debris ingestion in stranded turtles a long the Uruguayan coast. However we detected a negative correlation between the presence of debris and turtle's size. Smaller turtles are new recruits to neritic grounds indicating that the early juvenile stage of this species is the most vulnerable to this threat in the Southwestern Atlantic.
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Affiliation(s)
- G M Vélez-Rubio
- Marine Zoology Unit, Cavanilles Institute of Biodiversity and Evolutive Biology, University of Valencia, Aptdo. 22085, 46071, Valencia, Spain; Karumbe NGO, Av. Rivera 3245, CP 11400, Montevideo, Uruguay.
| | - N Teryda
- Marine Zoology Unit, Cavanilles Institute of Biodiversity and Evolutive Biology, University of Valencia, Aptdo. 22085, 46071, Valencia, Spain; Instituto de Investigaciones Marinas y Costeras, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Conicet, C 7600 Mar del Plata, Argentina
| | - P E Asaroff
- Universidad Favaloro, Entre Ríos 495, C1079ABE, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - A Estrades
- Karumbe NGO, Av. Rivera 3245, CP 11400, Montevideo, Uruguay; Museo Nacional de Historia Natural, 25 de mayo 582, CC 399, CP 11000, Montevideo, Uruguay
| | - D Rodriguez
- Instituto de Investigaciones Marinas y Costeras, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Mar del Plata, Conicet, C 7600 Mar del Plata, Argentina
| | - J Tomás
- Marine Zoology Unit, Cavanilles Institute of Biodiversity and Evolutive Biology, University of Valencia, Aptdo. 22085, 46071, Valencia, Spain.
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117
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Siegfried M, Koelmans AA, Besseling E, Kroeze C. Export of microplastics from land to sea. A modelling approach. WATER RESEARCH 2017; 127:249-257. [PMID: 29059612 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2017.10.011] [Citation(s) in RCA: 241] [Impact Index Per Article: 34.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2017] [Revised: 10/05/2017] [Accepted: 10/05/2017] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Quantifying the transport of plastic debris from river to sea is crucial for assessing the risks of plastic debris to human health and the environment. We present a global modelling approach to analyse the composition and quantity of point-source microplastic fluxes from European rivers to the sea. The model accounts for different types and sources of microplastics entering river systems via point sources. We combine information on these sources with information on sewage management and plastic retention during river transport for the largest European rivers. Sources of microplastics include personal care products, laundry, household dust and tyre and road wear particles (TRWP). Most of the modelled microplastics exported by rivers to seas are synthetic polymers from TRWP (42%) and plastic-based textiles abraded during laundry (29%). Smaller sources are synthetic polymers and plastic fibres in household dust (19%) and microbeads in personal care products (10%). Microplastic export differs largely among European rivers, as a result of differences in socio-economic development and technological status of sewage treatment facilities. About two-thirds of the microplastics modelled in this study flow into the Mediterranean and Black Sea. This can be explained by the relatively low microplastic removal efficiency of sewage treatment plants in the river basins draining into these two seas. Sewage treatment is generally more efficient in river basins draining into the North Sea, the Baltic Sea and the Atlantic Ocean. We use our model to explore future trends up to the year 2050. Our scenarios indicate that in the future river export of microplastics may increase in some river basins, but decrease in others. Remarkably, for many basins we calculate a reduction in river export of microplastics from point-sources, mainly due to an anticipated improvement in sewage treatment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Max Siegfried
- Water Systems and Global Change Group, Wageningen University & Research, Droevendaalsesteeg 3, 6708PB Wageningen, The Netherlands.
| | - Albert A Koelmans
- Aquatic Ecology and Water Quality Management Group, Wageningen University, P.O. Box 47, 6700 AA Wageningen, The Netherlands; Wageningen Marine Research, P.O. Box 68, 1970 AB IJmuiden, The Netherlands
| | - Ellen Besseling
- Aquatic Ecology and Water Quality Management Group, Wageningen University, P.O. Box 47, 6700 AA Wageningen, The Netherlands; Wageningen Marine Research, P.O. Box 68, 1970 AB IJmuiden, The Netherlands
| | - Carolien Kroeze
- Water Systems and Global Change Group, Wageningen University & Research, Droevendaalsesteeg 3, 6708PB Wageningen, The Netherlands.
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118
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Kooi M, Nes EHV, Scheffer M, Koelmans AA. Ups and Downs in the Ocean: Effects of Biofouling on Vertical Transport of Microplastics. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2017; 51:7963-7971. [PMID: 28613852 PMCID: PMC6150669 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.6b04702] [Citation(s) in RCA: 371] [Impact Index Per Article: 53.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/19/2016] [Revised: 06/14/2017] [Accepted: 06/14/2017] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Recent studies suggest size-selective removal of small plastic particles from the ocean surface, an observation that remains unexplained. We studied one of the hypotheses regarding this size-selective removal: the formation of a biofilm on the microplastics (biofouling). We developed the first theoretical model that is capable of simulating the effect of biofouling on the fate of microplastic. The model is based on settling, biofilm growth, and ocean depth profiles for light, water density, temperature, salinity, and viscosity. Using realistic parameters, the model simulates the vertical transport of small microplastic particles over time, and predicts that the particles either float, sink to the ocean floor, or oscillate vertically, depending on the size and density of the particle. The predicted size-dependent vertical movement of microplastic particles results in a maximum concentration at intermediate depths. Consequently, relatively low abundances of small particles are predicted at the ocean surface, while at the same time these small particles may never reach the ocean floor. Our results hint at the fate of "lost" plastic in the ocean, and provide a start for predicting risks of exposure to microplastics for potentially vulnerable species living at these depths.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merel Kooi
- Aquatic
Ecology and Water Quality Management Group, Department of Environmental
Sciences, Wageningen University & Research, P.O. Box 47, 6700 AA Wageningen, The Netherlands
- E-mail:
| | - Egbert H. van Nes
- Aquatic
Ecology and Water Quality Management Group, Department of Environmental
Sciences, Wageningen University & Research, P.O. Box 47, 6700 AA Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Marten Scheffer
- Aquatic
Ecology and Water Quality Management Group, Department of Environmental
Sciences, Wageningen University & Research, P.O. Box 47, 6700 AA Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Albert A. Koelmans
- Aquatic
Ecology and Water Quality Management Group, Department of Environmental
Sciences, Wageningen University & Research, P.O. Box 47, 6700 AA Wageningen, The Netherlands
- Wageningen Marine
Research, P.O. Box 68, 1970 AB IJmuiden, The Netherlands
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119
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Andrady AL. The plastic in microplastics: A review. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2017; 119:12-22. [PMID: 28449819 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.01.082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 902] [Impact Index Per Article: 128.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/27/2016] [Revised: 01/29/2017] [Accepted: 01/30/2017] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics [MPs], now a ubiquitous pollutant in the oceans, pose a serious potential threat to marine ecology and has justifiably encouraged focused biological and ecological research attention. But, their generation, fate, fragmentation and their propensity to sorb/release persistent organic pollutants (POPs) are determined by the characteristics of the polymers that constitutes them. Yet, physico-chemical characteristics of the polymers making up the MPs have not received detailed attention in published work. This review assesses the relevance of selected characteristics of plastics that composes the microplastics, to their role as a pollutant with potentially serious ecological impacts. Fragmentation leading to secondary microplastics is also discussed underlining the likelihood of a surface-ablation mechanism that can lead to preferential formation of smaller sized MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anthony L Andrady
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Raleigh, NC 27616, United States.
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120
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Lebreton LCM, van der Zwet J, Damsteeg JW, Slat B, Andrady A, Reisser J. River plastic emissions to the world's oceans. Nat Commun 2017; 8:15611. [PMID: 28589961 PMCID: PMC5467230 DOI: 10.1038/ncomms15611] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1452] [Impact Index Per Article: 207.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2016] [Accepted: 04/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/22/2023] Open
Abstract
Plastics in the marine environment have become a major concern because of their persistence at sea, and adverse consequences to marine life and potentially human health. Implementing mitigation strategies requires an understanding and quantification of marine plastic sources, taking spatial and temporal variability into account. Here we present a global model of plastic inputs from rivers into oceans based on waste management, population density and hydrological information. Our model is calibrated against measurements available in the literature. We estimate that between 1.15 and 2.41 million tonnes of plastic waste currently enters the ocean every year from rivers, with over 74% of emissions occurring between May and October. The top 20 polluting rivers, mostly located in Asia, account for 67% of the global total. The findings of this study provide baseline data for ocean plastic mass balance exercises, and assist in prioritizing future plastic debris monitoring and mitigation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurent C M Lebreton
- The Ocean Cleanup Foundation, Martinus Nijhofflaan 2, Delft 2624 ES, The Netherlands.,The Modelling House, 66b Upper Wainui Road, Raglan 3297, New Zealand
| | | | - Jan-Willem Damsteeg
- The Ocean Cleanup Foundation, Martinus Nijhofflaan 2, Delft 2624 ES, The Netherlands
| | - Boyan Slat
- The Ocean Cleanup Foundation, Martinus Nijhofflaan 2, Delft 2624 ES, The Netherlands
| | - Anthony Andrady
- Department of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, North Carolina State University, Campus Box 7905, Raleigh, North Carolina 27695, USA
| | - Julia Reisser
- The Ocean Cleanup Foundation, Martinus Nijhofflaan 2, Delft 2624 ES, The Netherlands
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121
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Hartmann NB, Rist S, Bodin J, Jensen LH, Schmidt SN, Mayer P, Meibom A, Baun A. Microplastics as vectors for environmental contaminants: Exploring sorption, desorption, and transfer to biota. INTEGRATED ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT AND MANAGEMENT 2017; 13:488-493. [PMID: 28440931 DOI: 10.1002/ieam.1904] [Citation(s) in RCA: 321] [Impact Index Per Article: 45.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/06/2017] [Revised: 01/20/2017] [Accepted: 02/07/2017] [Indexed: 05/18/2023]
Abstract
The occurrence and effects of microplastics (MPs) in the aquatic environment are receiving increasing attention. In addition to their possible direct adverse effects on biota, the potential role of MPs as vectors for hydrophobic organic chemicals (HOCs), compared to natural pathways, is a topic of much debate. It is evident, however, that temporal and spatial variations of MP occurrence do (and will) occur. To further improve the estimations of the role of MPs as vectors for HOC transfer into biota under varying MP concentrations and environmental conditions, it is important to identify and understand the governing processes. Here, we explore HOC sorption to and desorption from MPs and the underlying principles for their interactions. We discuss intrinsic and extrinsic parameters influencing these processes and focus on the importance of the exposure route for diffusive mass transfer. Also, we outline research needed to fill knowledge gaps and improve model-based calculations of MP-facilitated HOC transfer in the environment. Integr Environ Assess Manag 2017;13:488-493. © 2017 SETAC.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nanna B Hartmann
- Technical University of Denmark, Department of Environmental Engineering, Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Sinja Rist
- Technical University of Denmark, Department of Environmental Engineering, Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Julia Bodin
- Laboratory for Biological Geochemistry, School of Architecture, Civil and Environmental Engineering at Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Louise Hs Jensen
- Laboratory for Biological Geochemistry, School of Architecture, Civil and Environmental Engineering at Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Stine N Schmidt
- Technical University of Denmark, Department of Environmental Engineering, Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Philipp Mayer
- Technical University of Denmark, Department of Environmental Engineering, Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Anders Meibom
- Laboratory for Biological Geochemistry, School of Architecture, Civil and Environmental Engineering at Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Anders Baun
- Technical University of Denmark, Department of Environmental Engineering, Kgs Lyngby, Denmark
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122
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Kooi M, Reisser J, Slat B, Ferrari FF, Schmid MS, Cunsolo S, Brambini R, Noble K, Sirks LA, Linders TEW, Schoeneich-Argent RI, Koelmans AA. The effect of particle properties on the depth profile of buoyant plastics in the ocean. Sci Rep 2016; 6:33882. [PMID: 27721460 PMCID: PMC5056413 DOI: 10.1038/srep33882] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2016] [Accepted: 09/05/2016] [Indexed: 11/09/2022] Open
Abstract
Most studies on buoyant microplastics in the marine environment rely on sea surface sampling. Consequently, microplastic amounts can be underestimated, as turbulence leads to vertical mixing. Models that correct for vertical mixing are based on limited data. In this study we report measurements of the depth profile of buoyant microplastics in the North Atlantic subtropical gyre, from 0 to 5 m depth. Microplastics were separated into size classes (0.5-1.5 and 1.5-5.0 mm) and types ('fragments' and 'lines'), and associated with a sea state. Microplastic concentrations decreased exponentially with depth, with both sea state and particle properties affecting the steepness of the decrease. Concentrations approached zero within 5 m depth, indicating that most buoyant microplastics are present on or near the surface. Plastic rise velocities were also measured, and were found to differ significantly for different sizes and shapes. Our results suggest that (1) surface samplers such as manta trawls underestimate total buoyant microplastic amounts by a factor of 1.04-30.0 and (2) estimations of depth-integrated buoyant plastic concentrations should be done across different particle sizes and types. Our findings can assist with improving buoyant ocean plastic vertical mixing models, mass balance exercises, impact assessments and mitigation strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Merel Kooi
- The Ocean Cleanup Foundation, Martinus Nijhofflaan 2, 2624 ES Delft, The Netherlands.,Aquatic Ecology and Water Quality Management Group, Department of Environmental Sciences, Wageningen University &Research, P.O. Box 47, 6700 AA Wageningen, The Netherlands
| | - Julia Reisser
- The Ocean Cleanup Foundation, Martinus Nijhofflaan 2, 2624 ES Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Boyan Slat
- The Ocean Cleanup Foundation, Martinus Nijhofflaan 2, 2624 ES Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Francesco F Ferrari
- The Ocean Cleanup Foundation, Martinus Nijhofflaan 2, 2624 ES Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Moritz S Schmid
- The Ocean Cleanup Foundation, Martinus Nijhofflaan 2, 2624 ES Delft, The Netherlands.,Takuvik Joint International Laboratory, Département de biologie et Québec-Océan, Université Laval, Quebec G1V 0A6, Canada
| | - Serena Cunsolo
- The Ocean Cleanup Foundation, Martinus Nijhofflaan 2, 2624 ES Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Roberto Brambini
- The Ocean Cleanup Foundation, Martinus Nijhofflaan 2, 2624 ES Delft, The Netherlands.,Civil Engineering Department, Aalborg University, Fredrik Bajers Vei 5, 9100 Aalborg, Denmark
| | - Kimberly Noble
- The Ocean Cleanup Foundation, Martinus Nijhofflaan 2, 2624 ES Delft, The Netherlands.,Roger Williams University, Bristol, USA
| | - Lys-Anne Sirks
- The Ocean Cleanup Foundation, Martinus Nijhofflaan 2, 2624 ES Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Theo E W Linders
- CABI Europe-Switzerland, Rue des Grillons 1, 2800 Delémont, Switzerland
| | - Rosanna I Schoeneich-Argent
- The Ocean Cleanup Foundation, Martinus Nijhofflaan 2, 2624 ES Delft, The Netherlands.,Carl von Ossietzky, University Oldenburg, ICBM-Terramare, Schleusenstr. 1, 26382 Wilhelmshaven, Germany
| | - Albert A Koelmans
- Aquatic Ecology and Water Quality Management Group, Department of Environmental Sciences, Wageningen University &Research, P.O. Box 47, 6700 AA Wageningen, The Netherlands.,IMARES - Institute for Marine Resources &Ecosystem Studies, Wageningen UR, P.O. Box 68, 1970 AB IJmuiden, The Netherlands
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