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Gündoğdu S, Bour A, Köşker AR, Walther BA, Napierska D, Mihai FC, Syberg K, Hansen SF, Walker TR. Review of microplastics and chemical risk posed by plastic packaging on the marine environment to inform the Global Plastics Treaty. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 946:174000. [PMID: 38901589 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174000] [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: 03/25/2024] [Revised: 06/04/2024] [Accepted: 06/12/2024] [Indexed: 06/22/2024]
Abstract
Plastic overproduction and the resulting increase in consumption has made plastic pollution ubiquitous in all ecosystems. Recognizing this, the United Nations (UN) has started negotiations to establish a global treaty to end plastic pollution, especially in the marine environment. The basis of the treaty has been formulated in terms of turning off the tap, signaling the will to prevent plastic pollution at its source. Based on the distribution of plastic production by sector, the plastic packaging sector consumes the most plastic. The volume and variety of chemicals used in plastic packaging, most of which is single-use, is a major concern. Single-use plastics including packaging is one of the most dominant sources of plastic pollution. Plastic waste causes pollution in water, air and soil by releasing harmful chemicals into the environment and can also lead to exposure through contamination of food with micro- and nano-plastic particles and chemicals through packaging. Marine life and humans alike face risks from plastic uptake through bioaccumulation and biomagnification. While the contribution of plastics ingested to chemical pollution is relatively minor in comparison to other pathways of exposure, the effect of plastic waste on marine life and human consumption of seafood is beyond question. To reduce the long-term impact of plastic, it is crucial to establish a global legally binding instrument to ensure the implementation of upstream rather than downstream solutions. This will help to mitigate the impact of both chemicals and microplastics, including from packaging, on the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sedat Gündoğdu
- Cukurova University Faculty of Fisheries Department of Basic Science, 01330 Adana, Türkiye.
| | - Agathe Bour
- Dept. of Science and Environment, Roskilde University, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Ali Rıza Köşker
- Cukurova University Faculty of Fisheries Department of Seafood Processing, 01330 Adana, Türkiye
| | - Bruno Andreas Walther
- Alfred-Wegener-Institut Helmholtz-Zentrum für Polar- und Meeresforschung, Am Handelshafen 12, D-27570 Bremerhaven, Germany
| | | | - Florin-Constantin Mihai
- CERNESIM Center, Department of Exact Sciences and Natural Sciences, Institute of Interdisciplinary Research "Alexandru Ioan Cuza" University, Carol I Blvd 11, 700506 Iași, Romania
| | - Kristian Syberg
- Dept. of Science and Environment, Roskilde University, 4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - Steffen Foss Hansen
- Department of Environmental and Resource Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Bygningstorvet, Building 115, 2800 Kongens Lyngby, Denmark
| | - Tony R Walker
- School for Resource and Environmental Studies, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 4R2, Canada
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Maqbool A, Guzmán G, Fiener P, Wilken F, Soriano MA, Gómez JA. Tracing macroplastics redistribution and fragmentation by tillage translocation. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 477:135318. [PMID: 39094310 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135318] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/31/2024] [Revised: 07/23/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Soil is polluted with plastic waste from macro to submicron level. Our understanding of macroplastics (> 5 mm) occurrence and behavior has remained comparatively elusive, mainly due to a lack of a tracing mechanism. This study set up a methodology to trace macroplastic displacement, which combined magnetic iron oxide-tagged soil and macroplastic pieces tagged by an adhesive passive radiofrequency identification transponder. By utilizing these techniques, a field study was carried out to analyze the effect of tillage implement and plastic sizes on plastic displacement, to understand the fate of macroplastics in arable land. Results indicated that the displacement of macroplastics did not depend upon plastic sizes but did depend upon the tillage implement used. The mean macroplastics displacement per tillage pass was 0.36 ± 0.25 m with non-inversion chisel tillage and 0.15 ± 0.13 m with inversion disk tillage, which was similar to bulk soil displacement. However, only inversion disk tillage caused fragmentation (41 %) of macroplastics and generated microplastics (< 5 mm). In contrast, both tillage implements drove to similar burial of surface macroplastics into the tilled layer (74 % on average). These results highlight that tillage is a major process for macroplastics fate in arable soils, being one of the first studies to investigate it.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ahsan Maqbool
- Institute for Sustainable Agriculture, CSIC, Cordoba 14004, Spain; Doctorate Program "Ingeniería Agraria, Alimentaria, de los Recursos Naturales y del Desarrollo Rural Sostenible" University of Córdoba, 14014 Córdoba, Spain.
| | - Gema Guzmán
- IFAPA-Camino de Purchil, Granada 18004, Spain
| | - Peter Fiener
- Institute of Geography, Augsburg University, Augsburg, Germany
| | - Florian Wilken
- Institute of Geography, Augsburg University, Augsburg, Germany
| | | | - José A Gómez
- Institute for Sustainable Agriculture, CSIC, Cordoba 14004, Spain
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Kurniawan TA, Mohyuddin A, Othman MHD, Goh HH, Zhang D, Anouzla A, Aziz F, Casila JC, Ali I, Pasaribu B. Beyond surface: Unveiling ecological and economic ramifications of microplastic pollution in the oceans. WATER ENVIRONMENT RESEARCH : A RESEARCH PUBLICATION OF THE WATER ENVIRONMENT FEDERATION 2024; 96:e11070. [PMID: 39005104 DOI: 10.1002/wer.11070] [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: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 05/28/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 07/16/2024]
Abstract
Every year, the global production of plastic waste reaches a staggering 400 million metric tons (Mt), precipitating adverse consequences for the environment, food safety, and biodiversity as it degrades into microplastics (MPs). The multifaceted nature of MP pollution, coupled with its intricate physiological impacts, underscores the pressing need for comprehensive policies and legislative frameworks. Such measures, alongside advancements in technology, hold promise in averting ecological catastrophe in the oceans. Mandated legislation represents a pivotal step towards restoring oceanic health and securing the well-being of the planet. This work offers an overview of the policy hurdles, legislative initiatives, and prospective strategies for addressing global pollution due to MP. Additionally, this work explores innovative approaches that yield fresh insights into combating plastic pollution across various sectors. Emphasizing the importance of a global plastics treaty, the article underscores its potential to galvanize collaborative efforts in mitigating MP pollution's deleterious effects on marine ecosystems. Successful implementation of such a treaty could revolutionize the plastics economy, steering it towards a circular, less polluting model operating within planetary boundaries. Failure to act decisively risks exacerbating the scourge of MP pollution and its attendant repercussions on both humanity and the environment. Central to this endeavor are the formulation, content, and execution of the treaty itself, which demand careful consideration. While recognizing that a global plastics treaty is not a panacea, it serves as a mechanism for enhancing plastics governance and elevating global ambitions towards achieving zero plastic pollution by 2040. Adopting a life cycle approach to plastic management allows for a nuanced understanding of possible trade-offs between environmental impact and economic growth, guiding the selection of optimal solutions with socio-economic implications in mind. By embracing a comprehensive strategy that integrates legislative measures and technological innovations, we can substantially reduce the influx of marine plastic litter at its sources, safeguarding the oceans for future generations.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ayesha Mohyuddin
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, University of Management and Technology, Lahore, Pakistan
| | - Mohd Hafiz Dzarfan Othman
- Advanced Membrane Technology Research Centre (AMTEC), Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia (UTM), Skudai, Johor Bahru, Malaysia
| | - Hui Hwang Goh
- School of Electrical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Dongdong Zhang
- School of Electrical Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, Guangxi, China
| | - Abdelkader Anouzla
- Department of Process Engineering and Environment, Faculty of Science and Technology, University Hassan II of Casablanca, Mohammedia, Morocco
| | - Faissal Aziz
- Laboratory of Water, Biodiversity and Climate Changes, Semlalia Faculty of Sciences, B.P. 2390, Cadi Ayyad University, Marrakech, Morocco
| | - Joan C Casila
- Land and Water Resources Engineering Division, Institute of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering, College of Engineering and Agro-industrial Technology, University of the Philippines-Los Baños, Los Baños, Philippines
| | - Imran Ali
- Department of Chemistry, Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi, India
| | - Buntora Pasaribu
- Department of Marine Science, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Science, Padjadjaran University, Jatinangor, Indonesia
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Mihai FC, Ulman SR, Pop V. Macro and microplastic pollution in Romania: addressing knowledge gaps and potential solutions under the circular economy framework. PeerJ 2024; 12:e17546. [PMID: 38938611 PMCID: PMC11210483 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17546] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/29/2024] Open
Abstract
Background This review reveals the role of linear economy prevalence and mismanagement practices in plastic pollution of aquatic and terrestrial environments and related knowledge gaps in Romania while outlining downstream and upstream solutions to reduce plastic pollution and adopt circular economy strategies. Thus, the major aim of this study is the investigation of the stage of scientific knowledge concerning all these demands in the Romanian context. Methodology This work integrates two main approaches: (i) a bibliometric analysis fed by Web of Science and Scopus databases to reveal the current coverage of peer-reviewed literature related to plastic waste in Romania and (ii) a subject-based review to underline the main themes related to plastic waste management, plastic pollution, and mitigating options in Romania in line with circular economy principles. Results Reducing plastic pollution requires scientific knowledge, multi-sectoral cooperation, and societal awareness. Following this, the topics of plastic waste and plastic pollution appeared to be under-investigated in the literature considering Romania as a case study and concentrated around the 2020 year, emphasizing, in this way, the trendiness of plastic waste concerns and their management in the current research landscape. Our analysis points out that: (i) Romania is facing massive plastic pollution requiring solid improvements in waste management performances; (ii) few peer-reviewed research studies are performed in Romania for both macro and microplastic concerns with unknown pollution levels in most of its geographical regions; (iii) the plastic waste management is still understudied here, while waste statistics are poorly available at local levels; (iv) the perspectives of circular economy transition are still limited, feeding the plastic pollution in the coming years. Conclusions Several knowledge gaps are identified and must be covered by future research such as (i) adjusting mismanaged plastic waste levels to regional waste management performances and determining littering rates in urban and rural areas to improve the plastic pollution modeling inputs; (ii) examining plastic pollution associated with landfill sites and waste imports; (iii) assessing the sectoral contributions to macro and microplastic pollution of aquatic environments related to municipalities, tourist destinations, agriculture, etc.; (iv) determining retention levels of plastic in river basins and role of riparian vegetation; (v) analyzing microplastics presence in all types of freshwater environments and interlinkage between macroplastic fragmentation and microplastic; (vi) assessing the plastic loads of transboundary rivers related to mismanagement practices; (vii) determining concentrations of microplastics in air, soil, and other land use ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Florin-Constantin Mihai
- CERNESIM Environmental Research Center, Department of Exact Sciences and Natural Sciences, Institute of Interdisciplinary Research, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi, Iași, Romania
| | - Simona-Roxana Ulman
- CERNESIM Environmental Research Center, Department of Exact Sciences and Natural Sciences, Institute of Interdisciplinary Research, Alexandru Ioan Cuza University of Iasi, Iași, Romania
| | - Valeria Pop
- Research Institute for Sustainability and Disaster Management Based on High-Performance Computing, Faculty of Environmental Science and Engineering, Babes-Bolyai University of Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
- Doctoral School “Environmental Science”, Babes-Bolyai University of Cluj-Napoca, Cluj-Napoca, Romania
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Redondo-Hasselerharm PE, Rico A, Huerta Lwanga E, van Gestel CAM, Koelmans AA. Source-specific probabilistic risk assessment of microplastics in soils applying quality criteria and data alignment methods. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 467:133732. [PMID: 38350316 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133732] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2023] [Revised: 01/24/2024] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
The risk characterization of microplastics (MP) in soil is challenging due to the non-alignment of existing exposure and effect data. Therefore, we applied data alignment methods to assess the risks of MP in soils subject to different sources of MP pollution. Our findings reveal variations in MP characteristics among sources, emphasizing the need for source-specific alignments. To assess the reliability of the data, we applied Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) screening tools. Risk assessment was carried out probabilistically, considering uncertainties in data alignments and effect thresholds. The Hazardous Concentrations for 5% (HC5) of the species were significantly higher compared to earlier studies and ranged between 4.0 × 107 and 2.3 × 108 particles (1-5000 µm)/kg of dry soil for different MP sources and ecologically relevant metrics. The highest risk was calculated for soils with MP entering via diffuse and unspecified local sources, i.e., "background pollution". However, the source with the highest proportion of high-risk values was sewage, followed by background pollution and mulching. Notably, locations exceeding the risk threshold obtained low scores in the QA/QC assessment. No risks were observed for soils with compost. To improve future risk assessments, we advise to primarily test environmentally relevant MP mixtures and adhere to strict quality criteria.
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Affiliation(s)
- Paula E Redondo-Hasselerharm
- IMDEA Water Institute, Science and Technology Campus of the University of Alcalá, Avenida Punto Com 2, 28805, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain.
| | - Andreu Rico
- IMDEA Water Institute, Science and Technology Campus of the University of Alcalá, Avenida Punto Com 2, 28805, Alcalá de Henares, Madrid, Spain; Cavanilles Institute of Biodiversity and Evolutionary Biology, University of Valencia, C/ Catedrático José Beltrán 2, 46980 Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - Esperanza Huerta Lwanga
- Soil Physics and Land Management Group, Wageningen University & Research, P.O. Box 47, 6700 AA Wageningen, the Netherlands
| | - Cornelis A M van Gestel
- Amsterdam Institute for Life and Environment (A-LIFE), Faculty of Science, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, De Boelelaan 1108, 1081H Amsterdam, 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
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Sorasan C, Taladriz-Blanco P, Rodriguez-Lorenzo L, Espiña B, Rosal R. New versus naturally aged greenhouse cover films: Degradation and micro-nanoplastics characterization under sunlight exposure. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 918:170662. [PMID: 38316311 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170662] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 02/01/2024] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
The understanding of microplastic degradation and its effects remains limited due to the absence of accurate analytical techniques for detecting and quantifying micro- and nanoplastics. In this study, we investigated the release of nanoplastics and small microplastics in water from low-density polyethylene (LDPE) greenhouse cover films under simulated sunlight exposure for six months. Our analysis included both new and naturally aged (used) cover films, enabling us to evaluate the impact of natural aging. Additionally, photooxidation effects were assessed by comparing irradiated and non-irradiated conditions. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and nanoparticle tracking analysis (NTA) confirmed the presence of particles below 1 μm in both irradiated and non-irradiated cover films. NTA revealed a clear effect of natural aging, with used films releasing more particles than new films but no impact of photooxidation, as irradiated and non-irradiated cover films released similar amounts of particles at each time point. Raman spectroscopy demonstrated the lower crystallinity of the released PE nanoplastics compared to the new films. Flow cytometry and total organic carbon data provided evidence of the release of additional material besides PE, and a clear effect of both simulated and natural aging, with photodegradation effects observed only for the new cover films. Finally, our results underscore the importance of studying the aging processes in both new and used plastic products using complementary techniques to assess the environmental fate and safety risks posed by plastics used in agriculture.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carmen Sorasan
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, E-28871 Madrid, Spain
| | - Patricia Taladriz-Blanco
- International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL), Water Quality Group, Av. Mestre José Veiga s/n, 4715-330 Braga, Portugal; Adolphe Merkle Institute, University of Fribourg, Chemin des Verdiers, 4, 1700 Fribourg, Switzerland.
| | - Laura Rodriguez-Lorenzo
- International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL), Water Quality Group, Av. Mestre José Veiga s/n, 4715-330 Braga, Portugal
| | - Begoña Espiña
- International Iberian Nanotechnology Laboratory (INL), Water Quality Group, Av. Mestre José Veiga s/n, 4715-330 Braga, Portugal
| | - Roberto Rosal
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Physical Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Alcalá, Alcalá de Henares, E-28871 Madrid, Spain
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Shi W, Wu N, Zhang Z, Liu Y, Chen J, Li J. A global review on the abundance and threats of microplastics in soils to terrestrial ecosystem and human health. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:169469. [PMID: 38154650 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169469] [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: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
Soil is the source and sink of microplastics (MPs), which is more polluted than water and air. In this paper, the pollution levels of MPs in the agriculture, roadside, urban and landfill soils were reviewed, and the influence of MPs on soil ecosystem, including soil properties, microorganisms, animals and plants, was discussed. According to the results of in vivo and in vitro experiments, the possible risks of MPs to soil ecosystem and human health were predicted. Finally, in light of the current status of MPs research, several prospects are provided for future research directions to better evaluate the ecological risk and human health risk of MPs. MPs concentrations in global agricultural soils, roadside soils, urban soils and landfill soils had a great variance in different studies and locations. The participation of MPs has an impact on all aspects of terrestrial ecosystems. For soil properties, pH value, bulk density, pore space and evapotranspiration can be changed by MPs. For microorganisms, MPs can alter the diversity and abundance of microbiome, and different MPs have different effects on bacteria and fungi differently. For plants, MPs may interfere with their biochemical and physiological conditions and produce a wide range of toxic effects, such as inhibiting plant growth, delaying or reducing seed germination, reducing biological and fruit yield, and interfering with photosynthesis. For soil animals, MPs can affect their mobility, growth rate and reproductive capacity. At present epidemiological evidences regarding MPs exposure and negative human health effects are unavailable, but in vitro and in vivo data suggest that they pose various threats to human health, including respiratory system, digestive system, urinary system, endocrine system, nervous system, and circulation system. In conclusion, the existence and danger of MPs cannot be ignored and requires a global effort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenshan Shi
- School of Public Health, MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Nan Wu
- School of Geography, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS, UK
| | - Zengli Zhang
- School of Public Health, MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China.
| | - Yuting Liu
- School of Public Health, MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Jingsi Chen
- School of Public Health, MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Jiafu Li
- School of Public Health, MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China.
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Gedik K, Mutlu T, Eryaşar AR, Bayçelebi E, Turan D. Long-term investigation of microplastic abundance in Squalius species in Turkish inland waters. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 343:123278. [PMID: 38160775 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.123278] [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: 10/09/2023] [Revised: 12/26/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Examining the enduring alterations in microplastic (MP) concentrations within fish in inland waters is of utmost importance in understanding the historical trajectory of plastic waste and formulating consequential predictions regarding upcoming pollution levels. This study includes the collection of fish samples from 22 different river basins in Türkiye and all Squalius species distributed in Türkiye, covering the years 2004-2018, and examined the presence of MP in museum specimens' gastrointestinal tracts (GITs). 331 specimens were examined, and microplastic was observed in 20.8% (69). A mean value of 0.27 ± 0.19 MP per individual was observed, resulting in a cumulative score of 91 MP. Most observed MPs were composed of fiber, representing 79.1% of the total. The polymer types identified were mostly polyethylene (PE) at 38.5% and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) at 29.7%. The black color was prominent among MPs, and MP length ranged between 101 and 4963 μm. The analysis revealed no statistically significant difference in the mean MP values across different years and basins. There is no substantial correlation between the abundance of MP and the sizes of fish, population density, or quantities of plastic production. The data indicate that MP has persistently acted as a contaminant in freshwater ecosystems over an extended period. It is projected that the laundering of synthetic textiles serves as the primary contributor to MP contamination in freshwater bodies. Our results offer significant baseline data on the pervasive issue of MP pollution in the freshwater environment. These findings enable us to gain profound insights into the current state of MP contamination in fish residing in lotic systems while empowering us to make accurate predictions about its future trajectory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kenan Gedik
- Vocational School of Technical Sciences, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, 53100, Rize, Türkiye.
| | - Tanju Mutlu
- Vocational School of Technical Sciences, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, 53100, Rize, Türkiye
| | - Ahmet Raif Eryaşar
- Vocational School of Technical Sciences, Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, 53100, Rize, Türkiye
| | - Esra Bayçelebi
- Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, Faculty of Fisheries, 53100, Rize, Türkiye
| | - Davut Turan
- Recep Tayyip Erdogan University, Faculty of Fisheries, 53100, Rize, Türkiye
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Akca MO, Gündoğdu S, Akca H, Delialioğlu RA, Aksit C, Turgay OC, Harada N. An evaluation on microplastic accumulations in Turkish soils under different land uses. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 911:168609. [PMID: 37984660 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168609] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) pollution is now widely reported in soil ecosystems. However, the level of this pollution in soil ecosystems has not been sufficiently elucidated. Moreover, there is little understanding of how land use conditions affect the occurrence and distribution of MPs in soils. Therefore, this study examined 55 soil samples (44 agricultural and 11 urban) from the Mediterranean, Aegean, and Marmara regions of Türkiye, representing both agricultural and urban land uses. The samples were analyzed for MP distribution characteristics, such as abundance, shape, size, color, and type. Different types of MPs were detected in the soil samples, and their averages in agricultural and urban soils were 192.7 ± 14.2 and 127.3 ± 21.6 particles kg-1, respectively. MP abundance in the soil exhibited variations between different land uses, with agricultural areas showing higher levels compared to urban areas. In agricultural soils, MPs were predominantly blue-colored (44.6 %), in the form of fibers (74.9 %), smaller than 1000 μm (66.1 %), and primarily constituted polyethylene (90.8 %). In urban areas, MPs were also blue-colored (54.7 %), had a fiber shape (64.2 %), smaller than 1000 μm (70.6 %), and mostly belonged to the polyethylene category (78.5 %). A significant difference in MP concentrations was observed between agricultural and urban areas, reflecting the influence of distinct land uses on MP levels. Moreover, Principal Component Analysis (PCA) revealed that soil properties, including pH, electrical conductivity, organic matter, aggregate stability, average weight diameter, sand, clay, and silt, emerged as the primary determinants influencing the abundance and size of MPs within the soil. These findings contribute valuable insights into the origins of soil MPs and the intricate connections between MPs and varying soil characteristics across diverse land use categories.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhittin Onur Akca
- Ankara University, Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition, 06110 Ankara, Türkiye; Institute of Science and Technology, Niigata University, 950-2181 Niigata, Japan.
| | - Sedat Gündoğdu
- Çukurova University, Faculty of Fisheries, Department of Basic Sciences, 01330 Adana, Türkiye
| | - Hanife Akca
- Ankara University, Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition, 06110 Ankara, Türkiye; Institute of Science and Technology, Niigata University, 950-2181 Niigata, Japan
| | | | - Cenk Aksit
- Republic of Türkiye Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry General Directorate of Agricultural Research And Policies, 06800 Ankara, Türkiye
| | - Oguz Can Turgay
- Ankara University, Faculty of Agriculture, Department of Soil Science and Plant Nutrition, 06110 Ankara, Türkiye
| | - Naoki Harada
- Institute of Science and Technology, Niigata University, 950-2181 Niigata, Japan
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10
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Wright ACM, Boots B, Ings TC, Green DS. Impacts of pristine, aged and leachate of conventional and biodegradable plastics on plant growth and soil organic carbon. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:11766-11780. [PMID: 38224439 PMCID: PMC10869392 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-31838-9] [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: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Plastic is an essential component of agriculture globally, becoming a concerning form of pollution. Biodegradable alternatives are gaining attention as a potential replacement for commonly used, non-degradable plastics, but there is little known about the impacts of biodegradable plastics as they age and potential leachates are released. In this study, different types (conventional: polyethylene and polypropylene and biodegradable: polyhydroxybutyrate and polylactic acid) of micro- and meso-films were added to soil at 0.1% (w/w) prior to being planted with Lolium perenne (perennial ryegrass) to evaluate the plant and soil biophysical responses in a pot experiment. Root and shoot biomass and chlorophyll content were reduced when soil was exposed to plastics, whether conventional or biodegradable, pristine, aged or when just their leachate was present. The pH and organic matter content of soil exposed to these plastics and their leachates was significantly reduced compared to control samples; furthermore, there was an increase in CO2 respiration rate from soil. In general, meso (> 5 mm) and micro (< 5 mm) plastic films did not differ in the impact on plants or soil. This study provides evidence that conventional and biodegradable plastics have both physical and chemical impacts on essential soil characteristics and the growth of L. perenne, potentially leading to wider effects on soil carbon cycling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy C M Wright
- Applied Ecology Research Group, School of Life Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, CB1 1PT, UK.
| | - Bas Boots
- Applied Ecology Research Group, School of Life Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, CB1 1PT, UK
| | - Thomas C Ings
- Applied Ecology Research Group, School of Life Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, CB1 1PT, UK
| | - Dannielle S Green
- Applied Ecology Research Group, School of Life Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, CB1 1PT, UK
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Berenstein G, Córdoba P, Díaz YB, González N, Ponce MB, Montserrat JM. Macro, meso, micro and nanoplastics in horticultural soils in Argentina: Abundance, size distribution and fragmentation mechanism. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 906:167672. [PMID: 37832668 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167672] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2023] [Revised: 10/04/2023] [Accepted: 10/06/2023] [Indexed: 10/15/2023]
Abstract
Soil contamination with plastics is a major worldwide concern. However, data on plastic pollution in horticultural soils from Latin America is scarce. Furthermore, there is limited information on the fragmentation process that plastics undergo in environmental conditions. In this study, we investigated the abundance of macro, meso, micro and nano plastics in a previously studied horticultural soil (2015) from Buenos Aires, that has not been used for any productive activity since. Although the mass of macroplastics was conserved, the number of plastic fragments per square meter increased significantly, indicating a possible natural fragmentation process. Black polyethylene (PE) mulch film was the most abundant plastic found. For this material, when considering the mass of plastic fragments per square meter, the relative abundance was, in decreasing order: macroplastics (65.1-79.1 %) > mesoplastics (15.6-24.8 %) > microplastics (5.3-12.4 %) > nanoplastics (0.1 %). However, when considering the number of plastic items per square meter, the order was: microplastics (2383-3815) > mesoplastics (1019-1076) > nanoplastics (509-550) > macroplastics (25-46). The size distribution of plastic debris was analyzed using the natural logarithm of abundance versus the square root of the mean decile area, with good linear correlations (0.7749 < R2 < 0.9785). These results provide evidence for an ongoing dynamic fragmentation process (Mott model). We hypothesize that the breakdown of plastic into smaller pieces could be explained by a random fragmentation process based on soil volume changes between natural hydration/dehydration states. These data suggest that soil under natural conditions could act as an 'environmental plastic grinder'.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giselle Berenstein
- Instituto de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de General Sarmiento (UNGS), J. M. Gutiérrez 1150, (B1613GSX), Los Polvorines, Prov. de Buenos Aires, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Argentina.
| | - Paulina Córdoba
- Instituto de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de General Sarmiento (UNGS), J. M. Gutiérrez 1150, (B1613GSX), Los Polvorines, Prov. de Buenos Aires, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Argentina
| | - Yamila B Díaz
- Instituto de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de General Sarmiento (UNGS), J. M. Gutiérrez 1150, (B1613GSX), Los Polvorines, Prov. de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Nicolás González
- Instituto de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de General Sarmiento (UNGS), J. M. Gutiérrez 1150, (B1613GSX), Los Polvorines, Prov. de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - María Belén Ponce
- Instituto de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de General Sarmiento (UNGS), J. M. Gutiérrez 1150, (B1613GSX), Los Polvorines, Prov. de Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Javier M Montserrat
- Instituto de Ciencias, Universidad Nacional de General Sarmiento (UNGS), J. M. Gutiérrez 1150, (B1613GSX), Los Polvorines, Prov. de Buenos Aires, Argentina; Consejo Nacional de Investigaciones Científicas y Técnicas (CONICET), Argentina.
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12
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Saygin H, Baysal A, Zora ST, Tilkili B. A characterization and an exposure risk assessment of microplastics in settled house floor dust in Istanbul, Turkey. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:121030-121049. [PMID: 37947931 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-30543-3] [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: 08/03/2023] [Accepted: 10/13/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
The presence of microplastics in the indoor environment presents growing environmental and human health risks because of their physicochemical and toxic characteristics. Therefore, we aimed to isolate, identify, and characterize plastic debris in settled house floor dusts. This study is a rare study which assess the risks of plastic debris in settled house dust through multiple approaches including the estimated daily intake, pollution loading index, and polymer hazard index. The results indicated that polyethylene and polypropylene were the predominate polymer type of plastic debris in settled house dust with various shapes and colors. The risk assessment results also indicated the serious impact of microplastics in terms of extremely dangerous contamination as well as the fact that they present a polymer hazard. Results indicated that humans have a higher risk of exposure to microplastics via ingestion rather than inhalation. In addition, infants had a higher risk of potential intake compared to other age groups.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hasan Saygin
- Application and Research Center for Advanced Studies, Istanbul Aydin University, Sefakoy Kucukcekmece, 34295, Istanbul, Türkiye.
| | - Asli Baysal
- Faculty of Science and Letters, Chemistry Dept., Istanbul Technical University, Maslak, 34467, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Sevilay Tarakci Zora
- Health Services Vocational School of Higher Education, Istanbul Aydin University, Sefakoy Kucukcekmece, 34295, Istanbul, Türkiye
| | - Batuhan Tilkili
- Health Services Vocational School of Higher Education, Istanbul Aydin University, Sefakoy Kucukcekmece, 34295, Istanbul, Türkiye
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13
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Kurniawan TA, Haider A, Mohyuddin A, Fatima R, Salman M, Shaheen A, Ahmad HM, Al-Hazmi HE, Othman MHD, Aziz F, Anouzla A, Ali I. Tackling microplastics pollution in global environment through integration of applied technology, policy instruments, and legislation. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2023; 346:118971. [PMID: 37729832 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.118971] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/02/2023] [Revised: 08/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/09/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution is a serious environmental problem that affects both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Small particles with size of less than 5 mm, known as microplastics (MPs), persist in the environment and pose serious threats to various species from micro-organisms to humans. However, terrestrial environment has received less attention than the aquatic environment, despite being a major source of MPs that eventually reaches water body. To reflect its novelty, this work aims at providing a comprehensive overview of the current state of MPs pollution in the global environment and various solutions to address MP pollution by integrating applied technology, policy instruments, and legislation. This review critically evaluates and compares the existing technologies for MPs detection, removal, and degradation, and a variety of policy instruments and legislation that can support the prevention and management of MPs pollution scientifically. Furthermore, this review identifies the gaps and challenges in addressing the complex and diverse nature of MPs and calls for joint actions and collaboration from stakeholders to contain MPs. As water pollution by MPs is complex, managing it effectively requires their responses through the utilization of technology, policy instruments, and legislation. It is evident from a literature survey of 228 published articles (1961-2023) that existing water technologies are promising to remove MPs pollution. Membrane bioreactors and ultrafiltration achieved 90% of MPs removal, while magnetic separation was effective at extracting 88% of target MPs from wastewater. In biological process, one kg of wax worms could consume about 80 g of plastic/day. This means that 100 kg of wax worms can eat about 8 kg of plastic daily, or about 2.9 tons of plastic annually. Overall, the integration of technology, policy instrument, and legislation is crucial to deal with the MPs issues.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Ahtisham Haider
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, University of Management and Technology, Lahore 54770, Pakistan
| | - Ayesha Mohyuddin
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, University of Management and Technology, Lahore 54770, Pakistan.
| | - Rida Fatima
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, University of Management and Technology, Lahore 54770, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Salman
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, University of Management and Technology, Lahore 54770, Pakistan
| | - Anila Shaheen
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, University of Management and Technology, Lahore 54770, Pakistan
| | - Hafiz Muhammad Ahmad
- Department of Chemistry, School of Science, University of Management and Technology, Lahore 54770, Pakistan; Department of Chemistry, School of Science, Tianjin University, Tianjin 300072, PR China
| | - Hussein E Al-Hazmi
- Department of Sanitary Engineering, Faculty of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Gdańsk University of Technology, Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Mohd Hafiz Dzarfan Othman
- Advanced Membrane Technology Research Centre (AMTEC), Faculty of Chemical and Energy Engineering, Universiti Teknologi Malaysia, 81310 Skudai, Johor Bahru, Malaysia
| | - Faissal Aziz
- Laboratory of Water, Biodiversity & Climate Changes, Faculty of Science Semlalia, Cadi Ayyad University, BP 2390, 40000, Marrakech, Morocco
| | - Abdelkader Anouzla
- Department of Process Engineering and Environment, Faculty of Science and Technology, University Hassan II of Casablanca, Mohammedia, Morocco
| | - Imran Ali
- Department of Chemistry, Jamia Millia Islamia (Central University), Jamia Nagar, New Delhi 110025, India
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14
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Liu B, Zhang S, Li M, Wang Y, Mei D. Metal-Organic Framework/Polyvinyl Alcohol Composite Films for Multiple Applications Prepared by Different Methods. MEMBRANES 2023; 13:755. [PMID: 37755178 PMCID: PMC10537366 DOI: 10.3390/membranes13090755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/24/2023] [Revised: 08/13/2023] [Accepted: 08/18/2023] [Indexed: 09/28/2023]
Abstract
The incorporation of different functional fillers has been widely used to improve the properties of polymeric materials. The polyhydroxy structure of PVA with excellent film-forming ability can be easily combined with organic/inorganic multifunctional compounds, and such an interesting combining phenomenon can create a variety of functional materials in the field of materials science. The composite membrane material obtained by combining MOF material with high porosity, specific surface area, and adjustable structure with PVA, a non-toxic and low-cost polymer material with good solubility and biodegradability, can combine the processability of PVA with the excellent performance of porous filler MOFs, solving the problem that the poor machinability of MOFs and the difficulty of recycling limit the practical application of powdered MOFs and improving the physicochemical properties of PVA, maximizing the advantages of the material to develop a wider range of applications. Firstly, we systematically summarize the preparation of MOF/PVA composite membrane materials using solution casting, electrostatic spinning, and other different methods for such excellent properties, in addition to discussing in detail the various applications of MOF/PVA composite membranes in water treatment, sensing, air purification, separation, antibacterials, and so on. Finally, we conclude with a discussion of the difficulties that need to be overcome during the film formation process to affect the performance of the composite film and offer encouraging solutions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Shuhua Zhang
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University of Engineering Science, Shanghai 201620, China; (B.L.); (M.L.); (Y.W.)
| | | | | | - Dajiang Mei
- College of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Shanghai University of Engineering Science, Shanghai 201620, China; (B.L.); (M.L.); (Y.W.)
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15
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Gündoğdu S, Kutlu B, Özcan T, Büyükdeveci F, Blettler MCM. Microplastic pollution in two remote rivers of Türkiye. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2023; 195:791. [PMID: 37261625 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-023-11426-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2023] [Accepted: 05/26/2023] [Indexed: 06/02/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution in aquatic ecosystems presents an emerging environmental threat that can have adverse effects on ecology, endanger aquatic species, and result in economic damage. Despite the numerous studies reporting the presence of microplastics in marine environments, research into their presence in freshwater systems or inland waters remains limited. This study aimed to assess the level of microplastic pollution transported by the Munzur and Pülümür Rivers and some small rivers that flow into the Uzunçayır dam lake, which is the confluence of the Munzur and Pülümür Rivers in Türkiye. Samples were collected from 23 stations, with the concentration of microplastics ranging from 0.01 MP/m3 at P-4 station to 28.21 MP/m3 at P-10, a station located near a city. Microplastics comprise four types: fiber, film, fragment, and glitter. The average size of microplastics was 1.46 ± 0.05 mm, with the average size of fibers, films, fragments, and glitter-type microplastics being 1.58 ± 0.07 mm, 1.23 ± 0.10 mm, 1.21 ± 0.11 mm, and 0.78 ± 0.16 mm, respectively. The most frequent polymers were polyethylene (31.8%), polystyrene (21.1%), and polypropylene (10.5%). Despite being considered remote and less populated rivers compared to other river systems in Türkiye, all sampling sites showed varying concentrations of microplastics.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sedat Gündoğdu
- Faculty of Fisheries, Department of Basic Sciences, Cukurova University, 01330, Adana, Turkey.
| | - Banu Kutlu
- Faculty of Fisheries, Department of Basic Sciences, Munzur University, 62000, Tunceli, Turkey
| | - Tahir Özcan
- Faculty of Marine Sciences and Technology, Iskenderun Technical University, TR-31200, Iskenderun, Hatay, Turkey
| | - Ferhat Büyükdeveci
- Faculty of Fisheries, Cukurova University, 01330, Adana, Turkey
- Adana Directorate of Provincial Food, Agriculture and Livestock, 01330, Adana, Turkey
| | - Martin C M Blettler
- The National Institute of Limnology (INALI; CONICET-UNL), Santa Fe, Argentina
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