1
|
Yang J, Peng Z, Sun J, Chen Z, Niu X, Xu H, Ho KF, Cao J, Shen Z. A review on advancements in atmospheric microplastics research: The pivotal role of machine learning. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 945:173966. [PMID: 38897457 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.173966] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/29/2024] [Revised: 05/26/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), recognized as emerging pollutants, pose significant potential impacts on the environment and human health. The investigation into atmospheric MPs is nascent due to the absence of effective characterization methods, leaving their concentration, distribution, sources, and impacts on human health largely undefined with evidence still emerging. This review compiles the latest literature on the sources, distribution, environmental behaviors, and toxicological effects of atmospheric MPs. It delves into the methodologies for source identification, distribution patterns, and the contemporary approaches to assess the toxicological effects of atmospheric MPs. Significantly, this review emphasizes the role of Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI) technologies as novel and promising tools in enhancing the precision and depth of research into atmospheric MPs, including but not limited to the spatiotemporal dynamics, source apportionment, and potential health impacts of atmospheric MPs. The integration of these advanced technologies facilitates a more nuanced understanding of MPs' behavior and effects, marking a pivotal advancement in the field. This review aims to deliver an in-depth view of atmospheric MPs, enhancing knowledge and awareness of their environmental and human health impacts. It calls upon scholars to focus on the research of atmospheric MPs based on new technologies of ML and AI, improving the database as well as offering fresh perspectives on this critical issue.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jiaer Yang
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China
| | - Zezhi Peng
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China
| | - Jian Sun
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China.
| | - Zhiwen Chen
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China
| | - Xinyi Niu
- School of Human Settlements and Civil Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China
| | - Hongmei Xu
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China
| | - Kin-Fai Ho
- The Jockey Club School of Public Health and Primary Care, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong, China
| | - Junji Cao
- Key Lab of Aerosol Chemistry & Physics, Institute of Earth Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xi'an 710049, China
| | - Zhenxing Shen
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Xi'an Jiaotong University, Xi'an 710049, China
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Yan R, Li J, Li J, Liu Y, Xu Z, Ge X, Lu X, Yadav KK, Obaidullah AJ, Tang Y. Deciphering morphology patterns of environmental microfibers: Insights into source apportionment. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 259:121814. [PMID: 38820730 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2024.121814] [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: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 05/08/2024] [Accepted: 05/19/2024] [Indexed: 06/02/2024]
Abstract
Microfibers, a prevalent form of microplastics, undergo diverse environmental interactions resulting in varied morphological changes. These changes can offer insights into their environmental trajectories. Despite its importance, comprehensive studies on microfiber morphology are scarce. This study collected 233 microfibers from the East China Sea and South China Sea. Based on morphological features observed in microscopic images of microfibers, such as curvature, cross-sectional shapes, diameter variations, and crack shapes, we identified a general morphological pattern, classifying the environmental microfibers into three distinct morphological types. Our findings highlight noticeable differences in morphological metrics (e.g., length, diameter, and surface roughness) across three types, especially the diameter. Microfibers of Type I had an average diameter of 19.45 ± 4.93 μm, significantly smaller than Type II (263.00 ± 75.15 μm) and Type III (299.68 ± 85.62 μm). Within the three-dimensional (3D) space fully defined by these quantitative parameters, the clustering results of microfibers are also consistent with the proposed morphology pattern, with each category showing a potential correlation with specific chemical compositions. Type I microfibers correspond to synthetic cellulose, while 94.79 % of Types II and III are composed of polymers. Notably, we also validated the great applicability of the morphology categories to microfibers in diverse environmental compartments, including water and sediments in nearshore and offshore areas. This classification aids in the efficient determination of microfiber sources and the assessment of their ecological risks, marking a significant advancement in microfiber environmental studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ruoqun Yan
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil and Groundwater Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, PR China
| | - Jiangpeng Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil and Groundwater Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, PR China
| | - Jiawei Li
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil and Groundwater Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, PR China
| | - Yang Liu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil and Groundwater Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, PR China
| | - Zhe Xu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil and Groundwater Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, PR China
| | - Xinyu Ge
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil and Groundwater Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, PR China
| | - Xiao Lu
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil and Groundwater Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, PR China
| | - Krishna Kumar Yadav
- Faculty of Science and Technology, Madhyanchal Professional University, Ratibad, Bhopal, 462044, India; Environmental and Atmospheric Sciences Research Group, Scientific Research Center, Al-Ayen University, Thi-Qar, Nasiriyah 64001, Iraq
| | - Ahmad J Obaidullah
- Department of Pharmaceutical Chemistry, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, P.O. Box 2457, Riyadh 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Yuanyuan Tang
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Soil and Groundwater Pollution Control, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Southern University of Science and Technology, Shenzhen 518055, PR China.
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Mendes DS, Silva DNN, Santiago LEP, Gomes VJC, Beasley CR, Fernandes MEB. Comprehensive risk assessment of microplastics in tidal channel sediments in amazonian mangroves (northern Brazil). JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 366:121826. [PMID: 39008928 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.121826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
Pollution by microplastics (MPs) in mangroves is a growing concern, given its potential ecological and human health impacts. The characteristics of microplastic pollution and a risk assessment of MPs in the Amazon region's coastal sediments are still insufficient, and information about MP pollution in the benthic component of the mangrove ecosystem is lacking. We analyzed MP concentrations in the surface sediment of 9 stations in three tidal channels along the Ajuruteua Peninsula connected to the Caeté River estuary, aiming to assess the hazard level on the environment based on the Pollution Load Index (PLI). Raman and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy determined the MP's chemical composition. The results showed that the abundance of sediment MPs ranged from 100 to 1200 items kg-1, with an average of 433 ± 261.6 items kg-1. The MPs were mainly composed of transparent and blue fragments and fibers, ranging in size from 100 to 5000 μm. Six types of polymers were identified, including alkyd varnish (AV), resin dispersion (RD), chlorinated polyethylene (CPE), polyethylene-polypropylene (PE-PP), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), and hostaperm blue (HB). Hydrodynamic processes within estuaries and tidal channels play a crucial role in explaining the concentrations found, as circulation determines the pattern of sediment deposition and the particles adhered to it. PLI risk assessment showed that all sampling sites were at hazard level I: a low level of contamination in the mangrove sediments. However, a more comprehensive and systematic monitoring campaign is needed to expand our knowledge about pollution and contamination by MPs in Amazon mangrove areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Dayene Santiago Mendes
- Laboratório de Ecologia de Manguezal (LAMA), Instituto de Estudos Costeiros (IECOS), Universidade Federal do Pará (UFPA), Bragança 68600-000, PA, Brazil.
| | - Daniel Nobre Nunes Silva
- Grupo de Pesquisa em Ciência e Engenharia de Meios Porosos (GCEMP), Universidade Federal do Pará (UFPA), Salinópolis 68721-000, PA, Brazil.
| | | | - Vando José Costa Gomes
- Laboratório de Hidráulica Ambiental (HIDROLAB), Faculdade de Engenharia (FAE), Universidade Federal do Pará (UFPA), Salinópolis 68721-000, PA, Brazil.
| | - Colin Robert Beasley
- Laboratório de Conservação da Biodiversidade e das Águas, Instituto de Estudos Costeiros (IECOS), Universidade Federal do Pará (UFPA), Bragança 68600-000, PA, Brazil.
| | - Marcus Emanuel Barroncas Fernandes
- Laboratório de Ecologia de Manguezal (LAMA), Instituto de Estudos Costeiros (IECOS), Universidade Federal do Pará (UFPA), Bragança 68600-000, PA, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Alvarado-Zambrano D, Rivera-Hernández JR, Green-Ruiz C. Macroplastic and Microparticle Pollution in Beach Sediments from Urias Coastal Lagoon (Northwest Mexico). TOXICS 2024; 12:439. [PMID: 38922119 PMCID: PMC11209155 DOI: 10.3390/toxics12060439] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/20/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/11/2024] [Indexed: 06/27/2024]
Abstract
This study investigates the occurrence and characteristics of macroplastic and polymer microparticles in the Urias coastal lagoon's beach sediments, in northwest Mexico. Coastal lagoons, productive and vulnerable ecosystems, are impacted significantly by anthropogenic activities, leadings to their pollution by various contaminants, including plastics. Our research involved sampling sediments from four sites within the lagoon that were influenced by different human activities such as fishing, aquaculture, thermoelectric power plant operations, industrial operations, and domestic wastewater discharge. Our methodology included collecting macroplastics and beach sediment samples, followed by laboratory analyses to identify the plastic debris' size, shape, color, and chemical composition. The results indicated a notable presence of macroplastic items (144), predominantly bags, styrofoam, and caps made of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The polymer microparticles were mainly fibers, with cotton and polyester as the most common polymers, suggesting a significant contribution from clothing-related waste. The dominant colors of the microparticles were blue and transparent. High densities were observed in areas with slower water exchange. Our findings highlight the urgent need for better waste management practices to mitigate plastic pollution in coastal lagoons, preserving their ecological and economic functions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Daniela Alvarado-Zambrano
- Engineering in Environmental Technology, Polytechnic University of Sinaloa, Km 3. Carretera Municipal Libre Mazatlan Higueras, Mazatlan 82199, Sinaloa, Mexico;
| | - José R. Rivera-Hernández
- Mazatlan Academic Unit, Marine Sciences and Limnology Institute, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cap. Joel Montes Camarena, Mazatlan 82047, Sinaloa, Mexico;
| | - Carlos Green-Ruiz
- Mazatlan Academic Unit, Marine Sciences and Limnology Institute, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cap. Joel Montes Camarena, Mazatlan 82047, Sinaloa, Mexico;
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Porras-Parra LC, Zavalaga CB, Rios A. The COVID-19 pandemic "anthropause" decreased plastic ingestion in neotropic cormorants Nannopterum brasilianus in Lima, Peru. PeerJ 2024; 12:e17407. [PMID: 38827310 PMCID: PMC11144399 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17407] [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: 08/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/25/2024] [Indexed: 06/04/2024] Open
Abstract
Background The anthropause during the recent COVID-19 pandemic provided a unique opportunity to examine the impact of human activity on seabirds. Lockdowns in Peru prevented people from visiting coastal areas, thereby reducing garbage disposal on beaches and the movement of microplastics into the ocean. This cessation of activities likely led to a temporary decrease in plastic pollution in coastal regions. We aimed to investigate this phenomenon in inshore-feeding neotropic cormorants (Nannopterum brasilianus) along the Circuito de Playas Costa Verde (CPCV), situated on the coastal strip of Lima, Peru (∼ 11 million people). Methods We collected and analyzed fresh pellets along the CPCV before (over 11 months) and during the pandemic lockdowns (over 8 months). Results Our findings revealed a significant reduction in the occurrence of plastic in pellets during the pandemic period (% Oc = 2.47, n = 647 pellets) compared to pre-pandemic conditions (% Oc = 7.13, n = 800 pellets). The most common plastic debris item found in the pellets was threadlike microplastic. Additionally, our study highlights the direct correlation between human presence on beaches and the quantity of microplastics (mainly threadlike) found in cormorant pellets. We suggest that the reintroduction of these materials into the sea, previously accumulated on the coast, is likely facilitated by the movement and activity of beachgoers toward the ocean.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Catalina Porras-Parra
- Unidad de Investigación de Ecosistemas Marinos-Grupo Aves Marinas. Carrera de Biología Marina, Universidad Cientifica del Sur, Lima, Peru
| | - Carlos B. Zavalaga
- Unidad de Investigación de Ecosistemas Marinos-Grupo Aves Marinas, Universidad Cientifica del Sur, Lima, Perú
| | - Alvaro Rios
- Unidad de Investigación de Ecosistemas Marinos-Grupo Aves Marinas. Carrera de Biología Marina, Universidad Cientifica del Sur, Lima, Peru
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Jiang Y, Yang Y, Zhan C, Cheng B. Impacts of rainfall and lakeshore soil properties on microplastics in inland freshwater: A case study in Donghu Lake, China. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE. PROCESSES & IMPACTS 2024; 26:891-901. [PMID: 38591146 DOI: 10.1039/d3em00500c] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/10/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) pollution has garnered global attention in recent years. Although anthropogenic factors have been extensively studied for their impacts on MP pollution, there is still a lack of research on the relationship between non-anthropogenic factors and MP occurrence in inland freshwater. This study investigated MP pollution in Donghu Lake, the largest urban freshwater lake in China, to examine the effects of rainfall and lakeshore soil properties on MP pollution. The MP abundance in the surface water of Donghu Lake was 5.84 ± 2.95 items per L under the equilibrium state. However, during and after rainfall, the MP abundances significantly increased to 8.27 ± 5.65 items per L and 7.60 ± 4.04 items per L, respectively (p < 0.05). This increase could be attributed to an increase in the amount of MPs transported to the lake via atmospheric deposition and rainfall runoff, as well as the re-suspension of MP debris in sediment during stronger hydrodynamics. A statistically significant negative correlation was observed between MP abundance and lakeshore soil particle size. It suggested that a high proportion of large-sized soil particles created large pores that enabled MPs to be deposited in the surface layer of soil to migrate to deeper layers. As a result, the amount of MPs in the surface soil and transported to the lake via surface runoff was low. It is of practical significance to understand the sources and distribution impact factors of MPs in urban lakes. The fate and effects of MPs retained in the inland freshwater environments should receive more attention.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yan Jiang
- Key Laboratory for Geographical Process Analysis & Simulation of Hubei Province, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, China.
| | - Yinuo Yang
- College of Life and Environmental Sciences, Minzu University of China, Beijing 100081, China
| | - Chenxi Zhan
- Key Laboratory for Geographical Process Analysis & Simulation of Hubei Province, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, China.
| | - Bo Cheng
- Key Laboratory for Geographical Process Analysis & Simulation of Hubei Province, Central China Normal University, Wuhan 430079, China.
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Rodrigues C, Rodríguez Y, Frias J, Carriço R, Sobral P, Antunes J, Duncan EM, Pham CK. Microplastics in beach sediments of the Azores archipelago, NE Atlantic. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 201:116243. [PMID: 38513603 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116243] [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: 07/27/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 03/23/2024]
Abstract
Oceanic islands are exposed to plastic debris that has accumulated in the open ocean, particularly in the subtropical gyres. This study investigates the abundance and typology of microplastics (from 0.1 to 5 mm) on 19 sandy beaches spread across 8 oceanic islands of the Azores archipelago. Between January and April 2016, a total of 341 particles retrieved from all beaches, were identified as microplastics. The highest concentration (50.19 ± 21.93 particles kg-1 dw) was found in Terceira Island. Beach morphology and grain size were important factors explaining microplastic concentration. Fibres were the most dominant morphology recovered (80.9 %), followed by fragments (12.3 %). Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) revealed that 41 % of the fibres consisted of polyester and 60 % of the fragments were polyethylene. This research underlines the widespread contamination of microplastics in oceanic islands of the Atlantic Ocean.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Clara Rodrigues
- Instituto de Investigação em Ciências do Mar - OKEANOS, Universidade dos Açores, 9900-138 Horta, Portugal
| | - Yasmina Rodríguez
- Instituto de Investigação em Ciências do Mar - OKEANOS, Universidade dos Açores, 9900-138 Horta, Portugal
| | - João Frias
- Marine and Freshwater Research Centre (MFRC), Atlantic Technological University (ATU), Old Dublin Rd., Galway H91 T8NW, Ireland
| | - Rita Carriço
- Instituto de Investigação em Ciências do Mar - OKEANOS, Universidade dos Açores, 9900-138 Horta, Portugal
| | - Paula Sobral
- MARE-Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Joana Antunes
- MARE-Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, NOVA School of Science and Technology, NOVA University Lisbon, 2829-516 Caparica, Portugal
| | - Emily M Duncan
- Instituto de Investigação em Ciências do Mar - OKEANOS, Universidade dos Açores, 9900-138 Horta, Portugal
| | - Christopher K Pham
- Instituto de Investigação em Ciências do Mar - OKEANOS, Universidade dos Açores, 9900-138 Horta, Portugal.
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Soursou V, Campo J, Picó Y. Spatio-temporal variation and ecological risk assessment of microplastics along the touristic beaches of a mediterranean coast transect (Valencia province, East Spain). JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 354:120315. [PMID: 38350278 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.120315] [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: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Annually, the Mediterranean region attracts around one-third of the global coastal tourism, which is acknowledged as a substantial contributor to plastic pollution. Coastal municipalities mitigate this through periodic sand and shore cleaning. However, the efficacy of these measures remains uncertain. In this study, the occurrence of MPs (10 μm-5 mm) in sand from seven different, regularly cleaned, touristic beaches of the coastline of Valencia province (E Spain) was assessed. Two different sampling campaigns were performed in winter and in summer (2022) to compare the results and understand the influence of the high touristic activity, as well as, the efficiency of the measures taken against MPs pollution. The methodology used was designed specifically for the matrix and employed density separation using a Sediment Microplastic Isolation (SMI) Unit. In addition to conventional visual inspection and ATR-FTIR, automatic quantification and identification of the polymers of lower size was performed by μFTIR. The average MPs concentration in the summer (339 ± 92 MP kg-1 by stereomicroscopy and 339 ± 189 MP kg-1 by μFTIR) was significantly higher than in the winter (71 ± 92 MP kg-1 and 143 ± 85 MP kg-1) (p < 0.05). The combination of these analytical tools provides comprehensive information about the MPs present in beach sand. Fibers were the most abundant form of MPs, while most of the polymers analyzed were polyethylene (PE) and halogenated polystyrene (Cl-PS and Br-PS) with food packaging, swimming equipment and fishing nets being their most probable sources. Ecological risk assessment was performed through the Pollution Load Index (PLI), the Hazardous Index (HI) and the Risk Quotient (RQ), with the results indicating potential risk that ranges from moderate to high depending on the applied approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vasiliki Soursou
- Environmental and Food Safety Research Group of the University of Valencia (SAMA-UV), Desertification Research Centre CIDE (CSIC-UV-GV), Road CV-315 Km 10.7, 46113, Moncada, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Julián Campo
- Environmental and Food Safety Research Group of the University of Valencia (SAMA-UV), Desertification Research Centre CIDE (CSIC-UV-GV), Road CV-315 Km 10.7, 46113, Moncada, Valencia, Spain
| | - Yolanda Picó
- Environmental and Food Safety Research Group of the University of Valencia (SAMA-UV), Desertification Research Centre CIDE (CSIC-UV-GV), Road CV-315 Km 10.7, 46113, Moncada, Valencia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Santucci L, Fernández-Severini MD, Rimondino GN, Colombo CV, Prieto G, Forero-López AD, Carol ES. Assessment of meso- and microplastics distribution in coastal sediments and waters at the middle estuary of the Rio De La Plata, Argentina (SW Atlantic Ocean). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 914:170026. [PMID: 38218486 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/22/2023] [Revised: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 01/07/2024] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Estuarine coastal water and sediments collected from multiple locations within the middle Río de la Plata (RDLP) estuary were analyzed in order to identify the presence of microplastics (MPs, <5 mm) and mesoplastics (MePs, 5-25 mm) in one of the most significant estuaries in the Southwestern Atlantic. The present study represents one of the first researches to survey MPs and MePs contamination in key stations at RDLP estuary. Average concentrations of 14.17 ± 5.50 MPs/L and 10.00 MePs/L were detected in water samples, while 547.83 ± 620.06 MPs/kg (dry weight) and 74.23 ± 47.29 MePs/kg d.w. were recorded in sediments. The greatest abundances were observed in the more anthropized areas, near urban settlements. Fibers were the most conspicuous plastic items in water and sediments, followed by fragments. On the other hand, surface sediments, and 50 cm and 100 cm-depth sediments also presented MPs and MePs indicating they could serve as a stratigraphic indicator for recently formed sediments. The main polymer type identified were acrylic fibers, followed by polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Besides, SEM-EDX detected the presence of Si, Fe, Ti, Al and Cl onto the plastics' surface. These elements may serve as additives to enhance the plastics' properties, such as in the case of Ti, or they could originate from the environment, like biogenic Si or Fe, and Al possibly as a component of the suspended particles or sediments adhered to the micro or meso plastics. Finally, the results of the present study showed that MPs and MePs are commonly found in waters and also tend to be trapped in sediments of the RDLP estuary supporting the assertion that these areas play a substantial role in influencing the transport, dispersion, and buildup of MPs in estuarine regions.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- L Santucci
- Centro de Investigaciones Geológicas (CIG), CONICET/UNLP, CCT-La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - M D Fernández-Severini
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), CONICET/UNS, CCT-Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - G N Rimondino
- Instituto de Investigaciones en Fisicoquímica de Córdoba (INFIQC), Departamento de Fisicoquímica, Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Nacional de Córdoba, Ciudad Universitaria, Córdoba, Argentina
| | - C V Colombo
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), CONICET/UNS, CCT-Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - G Prieto
- Departamento de Ingeniería, Universidad Nacional del Sur, Bahía Blanca, Argentina (IFISUR), Universidad Nacional del Sur, CONICET, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - A D Forero-López
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), CONICET/UNS, CCT-Bahía Blanca, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - E S Carol
- Centro de Investigaciones Geológicas (CIG), CONICET/UNLP, CCT-La Plata, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Egea-Corbacho A, Martín-García AP, Franco AA, Albendín G, Arellano JM, Rodríguez-Barroso R, Coello MD, Quiroga JM, Cabello JF, Iglesias Prado I, Malta EJ. Microplastic in industrial aquaculture: Occurrence in the aquatic environment, feed and organisms (Dicentrarchus labrax). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 904:166774. [PMID: 37660804 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166774] [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: 05/16/2023] [Revised: 07/24/2023] [Accepted: 08/31/2023] [Indexed: 09/05/2023]
Abstract
The increasing use of plastics and the growing concern about their impact on the environment and living beings makes it necessary to study how microplastics (MP) affect aquaculture systems. In order to gain an in-depth understanding of these systems, this study covers the water intake, the purification treatment at the inlet, the water in the culture tanks, as well as the feed used in the feeding and the organism itself. For this purpose, five samples were taken, both in the water line, feed and sea bass during the weeks of the experiment. It is shown that the available purification systems reduce the amount of MP entering from the receiving environment. However, new MP are observed in the sea bass tank, which may be due mainly to those added through the feed and found in the feed, as well as in the piping and other materials used in current aquaculture systems (PTFE, PA, among others). If focusing on the feed that can reach the consumer, in the case of this study, carried out with sea bass, some types of MP (PE, PTFE, PS and PA) were found in 4 head samples and 4 skin/muscle samples. Although inlet water purification systems manage to reduce a high percentage of MPs in the system, it is observed that there are other access routes that should be considered and reduced in aquaculture facilities to prevent them from reaching the human consumer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Agata Egea-Corbacho
- Department of Environmental Technologies, Faculty of Marine and Environmental Sciences, University of Cadiz, 11510 Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Ana Pilar Martín-García
- Department of Environmental Technologies, Faculty of Marine and Environmental Sciences, University of Cadiz, 11510 Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain.
| | - Ana A Franco
- Department of Environmental Technologies, Faculty of Marine and Environmental Sciences, University of Cadiz, 11510 Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Gemma Albendín
- Toxicology Department, University Institute of Marine Research (INMAR), International Campus of Excellence of the Sea (CEI MAR), Faculty of Marine and Environmental Sciences, University of Cadiz, 11510 Puerto Real, Cadiz, Spain
| | - Juana Mª Arellano
- Toxicology Department, University Institute of Marine Research (INMAR), International Campus of Excellence of the Sea (CEI MAR), Faculty of Marine and Environmental Sciences, University of Cadiz, 11510 Puerto Real, Cadiz, Spain.
| | - Rocío Rodríguez-Barroso
- Department of Environmental Technologies, Faculty of Marine and Environmental Sciences, University of Cadiz, 11510 Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Mª Dolores Coello
- Department of Environmental Technologies, Faculty of Marine and Environmental Sciences, University of Cadiz, 11510 Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain
| | - José Mª Quiroga
- Department of Environmental Technologies, Faculty of Marine and Environmental Sciences, University of Cadiz, 11510 Puerto Real, Cádiz, Spain
| | - Jose F Cabello
- Aquaculture Technology Centre of Andalusia (CTAQUA), 11500 El Puerto de santa María, Spain
| | - Iria Iglesias Prado
- Aquaculture Technology Centre of Andalusia (CTAQUA), 11500 El Puerto de santa María, Spain
| | - Erik-Jan Malta
- Aquaculture Technology Centre of Andalusia (CTAQUA), 11500 El Puerto de santa María, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Tasnim J, Ahmed MK, Hossain KB, Islam MS. Spatiotemporal distribution of microplastic debris in the surface beach sediment of the southeastern coast of Bangladesh. Heliyon 2023; 9:e21864. [PMID: 38058634 PMCID: PMC10695837 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e21864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/22/2023] [Revised: 10/28/2023] [Accepted: 10/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023] Open
Abstract
This study undertakes a spatiotemporal analysis of microplastic pollution in surface beach sediments, covering 7 coastal beaches in Bangladesh and two seasons-monsoon and winter. The concentration of microplastics extracted from the surface beach sediment is 242.86 particles/kg dw. The results showed both significant seasonal (p value = 0.001) and spatial (p value = 0.004) variation. The abundance and polymer types were significantly higher (57 %) in winter than in the monsoon season (43 %). Touristic and commercial beaches showed higher levels of microplastic pollution than the non-touristic beaches. Polyethylene (28.8 %) and Polypropylene (27.6 %) were the most abundant polymer. The most dominant coloration of microplastics was white (42.6 %). The majority of the microplastics were fibers (33.5 %). Smallest particles measuring <1 mm constituted nearly half of the total microplastics load (48.5 %). This baseline data can be useful in terms of coastal zone management for the southeastern coastal beaches of Bangladesh.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jarin Tasnim
- Department of Oceanography, Faculty of Earth & Environmental Sciences, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Md Kawser Ahmed
- Department of Oceanography, Faculty of Earth & Environmental Sciences, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, 1000, Bangladesh
- International Centre for Ocean Governance (ICOG), Faculty of Earth & Environmental Sciences, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, 1000, Bangladesh
| | - Kazi Belayet Hossain
- Coastal and Ocean Management Institute, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China
- College of Environment and Ecology, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China
- State Key Laboratory of Marine Environmental Science, Xiamen University, Xiamen, 361102, China
| | - Muhammad Saiful Islam
- Fiber and Polymer Research Division, BCSIR Laboratories Dhaka, Bangladesh Council of Scientific and Industrial Research, Dhaka, 1205, Bangladesh
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Bayo J, López-Castellanos J, Olmos S, Rojo D. A holistic approach on the impact of microplastic discharge from WWTPs to the neighboring environment in Southeast Spain. WATER RESEARCH 2023; 244:120516. [PMID: 37651865 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.120516] [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: 08/11/2023] [Accepted: 08/21/2023] [Indexed: 09/02/2023]
Abstract
The present study investigated the release of microplastics (MPs) from wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) to the neighboring environment, including marine and coastal sediments, and fish. Here, we comprehensively investigated MP abundance in 34 samples of marine sediment, corresponding to 5,530.5 g of sediment (d.w.) collected at -8.0 m, -12.5 m, and -24.0 m, 69 samples of coastal sediment, accounting for 13,617.4 g (d.w.) from 17 different beaches from Mar Menor, and stomach and intestine of 17 fish samples of Sparus aurata, in the vicinity of Cartagena, a port city in Southeast Spain. The results showed that MPs were detected in all marine sediment samples, with an average abundance of 19.4 ± 2.4 items/kg (d.w.), in coastal sediments, with an average abundance of 52.5 ± 5.3 items/kg (d.w.), and fish samples, with an average of 8.2 ± 1.4 items per individual. The contribution of MPs from WWTPs to marine sediments is expected to be slow, as effluents were mostly dominated by fiber and film shapes, and by polymers less dense than seawater. There were no significant variations in the MP abundance of marine sediments after the atmospheric phenomenon named DANA, although a significant smaller MP size was reported, indicating a high mobility for tiny sizes. The same results were revealed for coastal sediment, although variations after DANA were statistically significant. Coastal sediment samples closer to WWTPs and agricultural fields with plastic mulching displayed higher MP concentrations, and an increase in the removal rate of MPs from WWTP effluents was negatively correlated with a decrease in MPs from fish collected. This study highlights the importance of sewage treatment plants in transporting MPs to the aquatic and terrestrial surrounding environment, which warrants further research on human health risks associated to MP pollution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Javier Bayo
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena, Paseo Alfonso XIII 44 E-30203, Cartagena, Spain.
| | - Joaquín López-Castellanos
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena, Paseo Alfonso XIII 44 E-30203, Cartagena, Spain
| | - Sonia Olmos
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena, Paseo Alfonso XIII 44 E-30203, Cartagena, Spain
| | - Dolores Rojo
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena, Paseo Alfonso XIII 44 E-30203, Cartagena, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Sheikhi H, Mirzaei R. Occurrence and abundance of macro, meso and microplastics along the coasts of the Persian Gulf (case study: Bushehr Province coast). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 194:115261. [PMID: 37437519 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115261] [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: 05/27/2023] [Revised: 07/01/2023] [Accepted: 07/03/2023] [Indexed: 07/14/2023]
Abstract
One of the most critical emerging pollutants in aquatic environments is plastic waste. During this study, the presence and abundance of macro, meso, and microplastics at 17 stations on the coast of Bushehr province were investigated. The average abundances of macro-plastics and meso-plastics in coastal sediment were 41.0 and 121.8 items/m2, respectively. The mean abundance of microplastics at depths of 0-5 cm, 5-15 cm, 0-15 cm and the mean of two depth abundance were 226.2 ± 76.7 and 47.1 ± 16.1, 273.4 ± 78.8, and 136.7 ± 39.4 particles/kgd.w., respectively. Fibers with 55 %, black microplastics with 40 %, and microplastic size of <500 μm with 48 % had the highest abundance, respectively. According to the FTIR spectra, polyethylene, polystyrene, polyethylene terephthalate, and nylon were the most common types of polymers in plastics. Although plastics were observed at all stations, a comparison of our results, with other studies around the world shows that the region is moderately contaminated with plastics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hossein Sheikhi
- Department of Environment, Faculty of Natural Resources and Earth Sciences, University of Kashan, Kashan, Isfahan, Iran
| | - Rouhollah Mirzaei
- Department of Environment, Faculty of Natural Resources and Earth Sciences, University of Kashan, Kashan, Isfahan, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Rodrigues JP, Rivera-Hernández JR, Bernárdez P, Rocha-Santos T, Duarte AC, Santos-Echeandía J. Metal(oid)s in plastic debris, with distinct features, from Spanish Mediterranean beaches with different anthropogenic pressure: Are these particles potential monitors for metal pollution? MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 193:115107. [PMID: 37327722 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115107] [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: 03/31/2023] [Revised: 05/16/2023] [Accepted: 05/25/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Metal(oid)s concentrations have been quantified in plastic pieces collected from four beaches located in the Mediterranean coast of Spain with different characteristics (i.e. anthropogenic pressure, zone). Metal(oid)s content was also related to selected plastic criteria (i.e. color, degradation status, polymer). The selected elements were quantified with mean concentrations in the sampled plastics with the following order: Fe > Mg > Zn > Mn > Pb > Sr > As > Cu > Cr > Ni > Cd > Co. Moreover, black, brown, PUR, PS, and coastal line plastics concentrated the higher metal(oid)s levels. Local of sampling (influence of mining exploitation) and severe degradation were key factors for uptake of metal(oid)s from water by plastics as modification of surfaces strengths their adsorption capacity. Determined high levels of Fe, Pb and Zn in plastics reflected the pollution degree of the marine areas. Therefore, this study is a contribution for the potential use of plastics as pollution monitors.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Joana Patrício Rodrigues
- Department of Chemistry & CESAM, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - José Roberto Rivera-Hernández
- Instituto de Ciencias del Mar y Limnología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Unidad Académica Mazatlán, Joel Montes Camarena s/n Cerro del Vigía, 82047 Mazatlán, Sinaloa, Mexico
| | - Patricia Bernárdez
- Centro Oceanográfico de Vigo (IEO, CSIC), Subida a Radio Faro 50, 36390 Vigo, Spain
| | - Teresa Rocha-Santos
- Department of Chemistry & CESAM, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Armando Costa Duarte
- Department of Chemistry & CESAM, University of Aveiro, Campus de Santiago, 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Juan Santos-Echeandía
- Centro Oceanográfico de Vigo (IEO, CSIC), Subida a Radio Faro 50, 36390 Vigo, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Raju MP, Veerasingam S, Suneel V, Saha M, Rathore C, Naik A, Suneetha P, Ramakrishna SSVS. Seasonal variation and spatial distribution of microplastic pellets and their associated contaminants along the central east coast of India. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2023; 30:68489-68503. [PMID: 37126173 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-023-27100-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/12/2022] [Accepted: 04/14/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pellets (MPPs) are one of the significant sources of plastic pollution on shorelines worldwide. In this study, for the first time, we have examined the occurrence of MPPs and their spatial and seasonal distributions, adsorbed contaminants, polymer composition, and ecological risks at eight renowned beaches of Andhra Pradesh, central east coast of India. A total of 3950 MPPs were collected from eight beaches along the central east coast of India during October 2020, representing pre-northeast monsoon (pNEM), and during January 2021, representing the northeast monsoon (NEM). The abundance of MPPs was higher during the NEM than those found in the pNEM. ATR-FTIR and SEM analyses were conducted to characterize the polymer types and weathering patterns of MPPs. Energy-Dispersive X-ray spectrometer (EDS) results show the MPP adsorbance of heavy metals such as Ni, Cr, Cu, Pb, and Zn. The degree of contamination and polymer hazard risks of MPPs were assessed using the pollution load index (PLI) and polymer hazard index (PHI). The conducive wind and currents during the NEM lead to higher MPP abundance than during the pNEM. However, the spatial variations of MPPs showed significant differences among the beaches. This study revealed that the presence of MPPs on the beaches along the central east coast of India might pose a considerable polymer hazard risk to the ecosystem. The substantial surface weathering features of MPPs would lead to more toxic nanoplastics in the future.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mallela Pruthvi Raju
- Department of Meteorology and Oceanography, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam, 530003, India
| | | | - Vasimalla Suneel
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Goa, 403004, Dona Paula, India.
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, 201002, India.
| | - Mahua Saha
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Goa, 403004, Dona Paula, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, 201002, India
| | - Chayanika Rathore
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Goa, 403004, Dona Paula, India
- Academy of Scientific and Innovative Research (AcSIR), Ghaziabad, Uttar Pradesh, 201002, India
| | - Akshata Naik
- CSIR-National Institute of Oceanography, Goa, 403004, Dona Paula, India
| | - Pilli Suneetha
- Department of Meteorology and Oceanography, Andhra University, Visakhapatnam, 530003, India
| | | |
Collapse
|
16
|
Taghipour H, Ghayebzadeh M, Ganji F, Mousavi S, Azizi N. Tracking microplastics contamination in drinking water in Zahedan, Iran: From source to consumption taps. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 872:162121. [PMID: 36773917 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.162121] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/04/2022] [Revised: 02/04/2023] [Accepted: 02/05/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) that pollute drinking water are inherently toxic, act as an adsorbent of hazardous pollutants, and threaten human health. So, the fate of microplastics in drinking water from the source to consumption taps (CTs) was assessed in spring and winter in Zahedan city in Iran. Sampling was performed from 4 reservoirs (raw water), before and after two water treatment plants (WTPs), and 10 CTs. The reservoirs were sampled using a plankton net (pore size = 100 μm), and the remaining samples were taken using a sampling device (containing a stainless steel membrane as a filter with pore size = 5 μm). The combination of density separation techniques, digestion, observation, Micro-Raman and FTIR, and SEM analysis was performed to recognize MPs. The average number of MPs in raw water varied between 15.4 and 44.7 MP/m3 (winter) and 22-51.8 MP/m3 (spring). The results before and after the treatment plant showed that about 64 % and 75 % of particles were eliminated in WTP1 and WTP2, respectively. The average number of MPs in CTs was more than treatment water (CTa = 85-390 MP/m3 and CTb = 75-400 MP/m3), which is a probable confirmation of secondary contamination (abrasion from pipes, installations, and sealing materials). The dominant type of polymer detected in raw water, treated water, and consumption taps were PS. The estimated daily intake for children and adults was about 0.16-15 MP/kg/bw/year and 0.07-5.7 MP/kg/bw/year, respectively. The surface morphology of MPs showed that the particles were affected by continuous weathering, mechanical breakage, and oxidation. MPs threaten the environment and human health due to the adsorption and transport of hazardous pollution and their intrinsic toxicity, so a solution must be thought of to prevent the pollution of drinking water by MPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hassan Taghipour
- Health and Environment Research Center, School of Public Health, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Mehdi Ghayebzadeh
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Health Promotion Research Center, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran; Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran.
| | - Fatemeh Ganji
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Zahedan University of Medical Sciences, Zahedan, Iran
| | - Saeid Mousavi
- Department of Statistics and Epidemiology, Tabriz University of Medical Sciences, Tabriz, Iran
| | - Nahid Azizi
- Department of Environmental Health Engineering, School of Public Health, Tehran University of Medical Sciences, Tehran, Iran
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Sánchez-García N, Sanz-Lázaro C. Darwin's paradise contaminated by marine debris. Understanding their sources and accumulation dynamics. ☆. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 324:121310. [PMID: 36804143 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121310] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 02/14/2023] [Accepted: 02/16/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution is a global environmental threat. Remote and pristine islands are not safe from this threat. Here, we estimated beach macro- (>25 mm), meso- (5-25 mm) and microdebris (<5 mm) levels in Galapagos and studied the role of environmental variables determining their accumulation. The vast majority of beach macro- and mesodebris were plastic, while most microdebris were cellulosic. The levels of beach macro-, meso- and microplastics were notably high and comparable with exceptional levels reported in contaminated areas. Oceanic currents and the anthropic pressure of use of the beach were the main factors that determined the level of macro- and mesoplastics, as well as the diversity of items, with more types of items in the beaches facing the predominant current. Microplastic levels were mainly driven by the slope and, to some extent, the grain size of the sediment in the beach. The absence of relationship between the levels of large size debris and the level of microplastics suggests that secondary microplastics that accumulated in the beaches were previously fragmented before arriving to the beach. This differential influence of environmental factors in the accumulation of marine debris according to their size should be taken into account when developing strategies to mitigate plastic pollution. Additionally, this study reports high levels of marine debris reported in a remote and protected area such as Galapagos, which are comparable to areas with direct sources of marine debris. This is especially worrying for Galapagos since the sampled beaches are cleaned at least annually. This fact highlights the global dimension of this environmental threat that demands further extensive international commitment to conserve some of the last paradises on Earth.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Natalia Sánchez-García
- Multidisciplinary Institute for Environmental Studies (MIES), Universidad de Alicante, P.O. Box 99, E-03080 Alicante, Spain; Department of Ecology, University of Alicante, PO Box 99, E-03080 Alicante, Spain.
| | - Carlos Sanz-Lázaro
- Multidisciplinary Institute for Environmental Studies (MIES), Universidad de Alicante, P.O. Box 99, E-03080 Alicante, Spain; Department of Ecology, University of Alicante, PO Box 99, E-03080 Alicante, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
18
|
Dalvand M, Hamidian AH. Occurrence and distribution of microplastics in wetlands. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 862:160740. [PMID: 36496018 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.160740] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/17/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 12/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Presence of microplastic particles has been reported in all over the world, even in remote areas with no human activities. Wetlands are important transitional areas between terrestrial and aquatic systems. However, microplastic pollution in wetlands is less studied than other aquatic ecosystems. In this review, documented researches about microplastic occurrence and distribution in different components of wetland systems (except constructed wetlands) were investigated. In this regard, all available articles from different science databases with the keywords microplastic, wetland and lagoon in title were examined and results were proposed by text, table and diagram, after standardization of data express units. Based on results, wetland ecosystems are prone to microplastic pollution. Based on particle properties, PE/PP and fiber/fragment were the most dominant reported chemical composition and particle shapes, respectively.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mahdieh Dalvand
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Tehran, P.O. Box 4314, Karaj 31587-77878, Iran
| | - Amir Hossein Hamidian
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Tehran, P.O. Box 4314, Karaj 31587-77878, Iran.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
Pasqualini V, Garrido M, Cecchi P, Connès C, Couté A, El Rakwe M, Henry M, Hervio-Heath D, Quilichini Y, Simonnet J, Rinnert E, Vitré T, Galgani F. Harmful algae and pathogens on plastics in three mediterranean coastal lagoons. Heliyon 2023; 9:e13654. [PMID: 36895393 PMCID: PMC9988496 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e13654] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/05/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2023] [Accepted: 02/07/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2023] Open
Abstract
Plastic is now a pervasive pollutant in all marine ecosystems. The microplastics and macroplastic debris were studied in three French Mediterranean coastal lagoons (Prevost, Biguglia and Diana lagoons), displaying different environmental characteristics. In addition, biofilm samples were analyzed over the seasons to quantify and identify microalgae communities colonizing macroplastics, and determine potentially harmful microorganisms. Results indicate low but highly variable concentrations of microplastics, in relation to the period and location of sampling. Micro-Raman spectroscopy analyses revealed that the majority of macroplastic debris corresponded to polyethylene (PE) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE), and to a far lesser extent to polypropylene (PP). The observations by Scanning Electron Microscopy of microalgae communities colonizing macroplastic debris demonstrated differences depending on the seasons, with higher amounts in spring and summer, but without any variation between lagoons and polymers. Among the Diatomophyceae, the most dominant genera were Amphora spp., Cocconeis spp., and Navicula spp.. Cyanobacteria and Dinophyceae such as Prorocentrum cordatum, a potentially toxic species, were also found sporadically. The use of Primer specific DNA amplification tools enabled us to detect potentially harmful microorganisms colonizing plastics, such as Alexandrium minutum or Vibrio spp. An additional in situ experiment performed over one year revealed an increase in the diversity of colonizing microalgae in relation to the duration of immersion for the three tested polymers PE, LDPE and polyethylene terephthalates (PET). Vibrio settled durably after two weeks of immersion, whatever the polymer. This study confirms that Mediterranean coastal lagoons are vulnerable to the presence of macroplastic debris that may passively host and transport various species, including some potentially harmful algal and bacterial microorganisms.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vanina Pasqualini
- UMR SPE CNRS - UMS Stella Mare CNRS, University of Corsica, BP 52, 20250, Corte, France
| | - Marie Garrido
- Environmental Agency of Corsica, 7 Avenue Jean Nicoli, 20250, Corte, France
| | - Philippe Cecchi
- UMR MARBEC, IRD CNRS IFREMER, University of Montpellier, CC093, 34095, Montpellier Cedex 5, France
| | - Coralie Connès
- IFREMER, Laboratoire Environnement Ressources Provence-Azur-Corse (LER/PAC), Station de Bastia, Zone Industrielle de Furiani, 20600, Bastia, France
| | - Alain Couté
- Muséum National d'Histoire Naturelle, Département RDDM, FRE 3206, USM 505, 57 rue Cuvier, 75005, Paris, France
| | - Maria El Rakwe
- IFREMER, Laboratoire Détection, Capteurs et Mesures (LDCM), Centre Bretagne, ZI de la Pointe du Diable, CS 10070, 29280, Plouzané, France
| | - Maryvonne Henry
- IFREMER, Laboratoire Environnement Ressources Provence-Azur-Corse (LER/PAC), Station de Toulon, Zone Portuaire de Brégaillon, CS 20330, 83507, La Seyne sur Mer, France
| | - Dominique Hervio-Heath
- IFREMER, Laboratoire Adaptation, Reproduction et Nutrition des Poissons (LARN), Centre Bretagne, ZI de la Pointe du Diable, CS 10070, 29280, Plouzané, France
| | - Yann Quilichini
- UMR SPE CNRS - UMS Stella Mare CNRS, University of Corsica, BP 52, 20250, Corte, France
| | - Jérémy Simonnet
- IFREMER, Laboratoire Santé, Environnement et Microbiologie (LSEM), Centre Bretagne, ZI de la Pointe du Diable, CS 10070, 29280, Plouzané, France
| | - Emmanuel Rinnert
- IFREMER, Laboratoire Cycle Géochimique et Ressources (LCG), Centre Bretagne, ZI de la Pointe du Diable, CS 10070, 29280, Plouzané, France
| | - Thomas Vitré
- IFREMER, Laboratoire Adaptation, Reproduction et Nutrition des Poissons (LARN), Centre Bretagne, ZI de la Pointe du Diable, CS 10070, 29280, Plouzané, France
| | - François Galgani
- IFREMER, Laboratoire Environnement Ressources Provence-Azur-Corse (LER/PAC), Station de Bastia, Zone Industrielle de Furiani, 20600, Bastia, France
| |
Collapse
|
20
|
Silva-Cavalcanti JS, Silva JCP, de Andrade FM, Brito AMSS, Costa MFD. Microplastic pollution in sediments of tropical shallow lakes. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 855:158671. [PMID: 36099957 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.158671] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 09/04/2022] [Accepted: 09/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Forty-eight tropical shallow lakes (depth ≤ 4 m) across a climatic gradient were assessed for microplastic (MPs; <5 mm) pollution based on MPs concentrations in archive samples from lake shore sediments. The MPs were classified by type (fragments or fibres), colour (yellow, black, red, green, blue, white, and transparent), size (0.55 to 4.93 mm), and polymer (polyester, polyethylene, chlorinated polyethylene, and polyamide). Sediments were predominantly medium sand, and all samples (144) contained MPs, consisting of 24 % fragments (6.3 ± 11.3 MPs·300 g-1) and 76 % fibres (21.25 ± 12.7 MPs·300 g-1). The lake climate (humid, transitional, or semi-arid), type of surrounding land use (urban, semi-arid, or rural), and distance from the shoreline (0, 5 or 10 m) did not explain the differences in MPs concentrations, partially refuting the initial hypothesis. The only significant difference was between the sample medians for the number of fragments based on the region (H = 7.586; p = 0.0481). The number of fragments in the lakes in the humid region was greater than that in the semi-arid region (p < 0.05). Poor sanitation, sewage effluents, and solid wastes reaching and accumulating in the lakes may be the primary and transversal conditioning factors for this small difference among diverse environments. Freshwater lakes are investigated in all continents, and the present study contributes to the first record of MPs in shallow lake sediments in eastern South America. The 48 shallow lakes assessed showed a relatively low concentration of MPs compared to other lake contaminants reported in the international literature. This information coincides with public policies issued, regarding the control and reduction of plastics and MPs in Brazil, and the study region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Jayne Crisleny Pereira Silva
- Federal Rural University of Pernambuco, R. Dom Manuel de Medeiros, s/n, Recife 52171-900, Brazil; Federal University of Pernambuco, Av. Arquitetura, s/n, Recife 50740-540, Brazil
| | | | | | | |
Collapse
|
21
|
Li Y, Xiao P, Donnici S, Cheng J, Tang C. Spatial and seasonal distribution of microplastics in various environmental compartments around Sishili Bay of North Yellow Sea, China. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 186:114372. [PMID: 36442313 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.114372] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2022] [Revised: 11/08/2022] [Accepted: 11/11/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution in the marine environment is closely linked to human activities, particularly in coastal areas. Seasonal samples were collected on the beach, in rivers, surface water, bottom water, and subtidal sediments from May 2019 to February 2020. Microplastics in environment metrices showed different seasonal variation characteristics of both abundance and shapes, and their spatial distribution varied in different environment metrices. The most common shapes of microplastic in water and sediment were fibers and fragments. Foams were evident on the beach sand with seasonal distribution. Results from this study show that microplastics in coastal areas are vulnerable to human activities, such as marine aquaculture and fishery activity. The variation in vertical profiles indicated the presence of a complicated mechanism in water column. The typical microplastics inventory suggested sediment as the main sink in coastal area. More investigations are needed to understand the distribution of microplastic in the coastal region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Yanfang Li
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research (YIC), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shandong, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes, YICCAS, Yantai, Shandong, China; Center for Ocean Mega-Science, CAS, Qingdao, China
| | - Pei Xiao
- Marine Environmental monitoring and Forecast Centre, Yantai Municipal Bureau of Marine Development and Fisheries, Yantai, Shandong, China
| | - Sandra Donnici
- National Research Council, Institute of Geosciences and Earth Resources, Via Gradenigo, 6, 35131 Padova, Italy
| | - Jiaojiao Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research (YIC), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shandong, China
| | - Cheng Tang
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research (YIC), Chinese Academy of Sciences (CAS), Shandong, China; Shandong Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes, YICCAS, Yantai, Shandong, China; Center for Ocean Mega-Science, CAS, Qingdao, China.
| |
Collapse
|
22
|
Garcés-Ordóñez O, Saldarriaga-Vélez JF, Espinosa-Díaz LF, Canals M, Sánchez-Vidal A, Thiel M. A systematic review on microplastic pollution in water, sediments, and organisms from 50 coastal lagoons across the globe. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 315:120366. [PMID: 36240966 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.120366] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2022] [Revised: 09/12/2022] [Accepted: 10/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Coastal lagoons are transitional environments between continental and marine aquatic systems. Globally, coastal lagoons are of great ecological and socioeconomic importance as providers of valuable ecosystem services. However, these fragile environments are subject to several human pressures, including pollution by microplastics (MPs). The aim of this review was to identify and summarize advances in MP pollution research in coastal lagoons across the world. We consider peer-reviewed publications on this topic published in English and Spanish between 2000 and April 21, 2022, available in Scopus and Google Scholar. We found 57 publications with data on MP abundances and their characteristics in 50 coastal lagoons from around the world, 58% of which have some environmental protection status. The number of publications on this type of pollution in lagoons has increased significantly since 2019. Methodological differences amongst studies of MPs in coastal lagoons were nevertheless a limiting factor for wide-ranging comparisons. Most studies (77%) were conducted in single environmental compartments, and integration was limited, hampering current understanding of MP dynamics in such lagoons. MPs were more abundant in lagoons with highly populated shores and watersheds, which support intensive human activities. On the contrary, lagoons in natural protected areas had lower abundances of MPs, mostly in sediments and organisms. Fiber/filament and fragment shapes, and polyethylene, polyester, and polypropylene polymers were predominant. MPs had accumulated in certain areas of coastal lagoons, or had been exported to the sea, depending on the influence of seasonal weather, hydrodynamics, anthropogenic pressures, and typology of MPs. It is advised that future research on MP pollution in coastal lagoons should focus on methodological aspects, assessment/monitoring of pollution itself, MP dynamics and impacts, and prevention measures as part of a sound environmental management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ostin Garcés-Ordóñez
- Instituto de Investigaciones Marinas y Costeras "José Benito Vives de Andréis"-INVEMAR, Programa Calidad Ambiental Marina, Calle 25 No. 2-55 Rodadero, Santa Marta, Colombia; CRG Marine Geosciences, Department of Earth and Ocean Dynamics, Earth Sciences Faculty, University of Barcelona, E-08028, Barcelona, Spain; Red de Vigilancia para la Conservación y Protección de las Aguas Marinas y Costeras de Colombia, REDCAM, Colombia.
| | - Juan F Saldarriaga-Vélez
- Instituto de Investigaciones Marinas y Costeras "José Benito Vives de Andréis"-INVEMAR, Programa Calidad Ambiental Marina, Calle 25 No. 2-55 Rodadero, Santa Marta, Colombia; Red de Vigilancia para la Conservación y Protección de las Aguas Marinas y Costeras de Colombia, REDCAM, Colombia
| | - Luisa F Espinosa-Díaz
- Instituto de Investigaciones Marinas y Costeras "José Benito Vives de Andréis"-INVEMAR, Programa Calidad Ambiental Marina, Calle 25 No. 2-55 Rodadero, Santa Marta, Colombia; Red de Vigilancia para la Conservación y Protección de las Aguas Marinas y Costeras de Colombia, REDCAM, Colombia
| | - Miquel Canals
- CRG Marine Geosciences, Department of Earth and Ocean Dynamics, Earth Sciences Faculty, University of Barcelona, E-08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Anna Sánchez-Vidal
- CRG Marine Geosciences, Department of Earth and Ocean Dynamics, Earth Sciences Faculty, University of Barcelona, E-08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Martin Thiel
- Universidad Católica del Norte, Facultad Ciencias del Mar, Larrondo, 1281, Coquimbo, Chile; Millennium Nucleus Ecology and Sustainable Management of Oceanic Island (ESMOI), Coquimbo, Chile; Centro de Estudios Avanzados en Zonas Áridas (CEAZA), Coquimbo, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Characterisation of different manufactured plastic microparticles and their comparison to environmental microplastics. POWDER TECHNOL 2022. [DOI: 10.1016/j.powtec.2022.117960] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
|
24
|
Jaouani R, Mouneyrac C, Châtel A, Amiard F, Dellali M, Beyrem H, Michelet A, Lagarde F. Seasonal and spatial distribution of microplastics in sediments by FTIR imaging throughout a continuum lake - lagoon- beach from the Tunisian coast. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 838:156519. [PMID: 35690197 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.156519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2022] [Revised: 06/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/02/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Plastics pollution in marine environment has become an issue of increasing scientific concern. This work aims to study the temporal and spatial distribution of plastics in sediments from three different Tunisian ecosystems; Rimel Beach, Bizerta lagoon and Ichkeul lake. Sediment sampling was conducted in surface (2 cm) and depth (15 cm) during spring, summer and winter. Plastics debris were separated by size fractions: macro (>5 mm), meso (1-5 mm) and microplastics (<1 mm) to optimize the time necessary for their characterisation. Macroplastics and mesoplastics were identified using an IR Attenuated total reflectance (ATR) and microplastics with Imaging Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) spectroscopy after an optimized extraction protocol. Results indicate that, the lowest contamination degree with macroplastics was recorded in Ichkeul lake, 2 macro debris/m2 (marine protected area, national parc of Ichkeul). Mesoparticles were only detected in lagoon of Bizerte in large quantities (4900 item/kg of sediment in surface and 680 item/kg of sediment in depth) and were identified principally as paint products. For microplastics, the repartition was quite homogeneous between the three sites with an average abundance was 130.55 ± 65.61 items/kg for all seasons. The variations of microplastics abundances on the three sites could not be clearly related to the seasons. Whereas the polymer characterisation in the surface and depth sediments of the three studied areas were principally due to eight types of polymers (PVC, PET, PP, PE PS, Polyamide (PA) and polymeric methyl methacrylate (PMMA)) as reported in many other studies, surprisingly all MPs recovered in the study were smaller than 300 μm, >70 % being fragments. This study brings new results as regards to the state of plastic contamination in Tunisian coast and shows the importance of investigating different ecosystems in such studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rihab Jaouani
- Institut des Molécules et Matériaux du Mans (IMMM, UMR CNRS 6283), Le Mans Université, Avenue Olivier Messiaen, F-72085 Le Mans, France; Laboratoire Biologie des Organismes, Stress, Santé, Environnement (BIOSSE), Université Catholique de l'Ouest, F-49000 Angers, France; Laboratoire de biosurveillance de l'environnement, Faculté des Sciences de Bizerte, Zarzouna 7021, Tunisie.
| | - Catherine Mouneyrac
- Laboratoire Biologie des Organismes, Stress, Santé, Environnement (BIOSSE), Université Catholique de l'Ouest, F-49000 Angers, France
| | - Amélie Châtel
- Laboratoire Biologie des Organismes, Stress, Santé, Environnement (BIOSSE), Université Catholique de l'Ouest, F-49000 Angers, France
| | - Frédéric Amiard
- Institut des Molécules et Matériaux du Mans (IMMM, UMR CNRS 6283), Le Mans Université, Avenue Olivier Messiaen, F-72085 Le Mans, France
| | - Mohamed Dellali
- Laboratoire de biosurveillance de l'environnement, Faculté des Sciences de Bizerte, Zarzouna 7021, Tunisie
| | - Hamouda Beyrem
- Laboratoire Biologie des Organismes, Stress, Santé, Environnement (BIOSSE), Université Catholique de l'Ouest, F-49000 Angers, France
| | - Alexandre Michelet
- Perkin Elmer, ZA Courtaboeuf, 12, 14 Avenue de la Baltique, 91140 Villebon sur Yvette, France
| | - Fabienne Lagarde
- Institut des Molécules et Matériaux du Mans (IMMM, UMR CNRS 6283), Le Mans Université, Avenue Olivier Messiaen, F-72085 Le Mans, France
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Fagiano V, Compa M, Alomar C, García-Marcos K, Deudero S. Marine plastics in Mediterranean islands: Evaluating the distribution and composition of plastic pollution in the surface waters along four islands of the Western Sea Basin. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 305:119268. [PMID: 35398154 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.119268] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/21/2021] [Revised: 03/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
To study the spatial distribution of sea surface plastics in marine protected and non-protected areas, 65 sea surface trawls were carried out using a Hydro-bios manta net coupled with a 335-μm mesh. A total of 19 sampling sites along the coastal waters of Mallorca, the "Parque Nacional Marítimo-Terrestre del Archipiélago de Cabrera" and Menorca in the Balearic Islands as well as along coastal waters of The Natural Park of Columbretes Islands (NW Mediterranean Sea) were sampled. A total of 10,637 plastic items were identified and a subset of these items was categorized by shape, color, size and polymer composition. Plastic particles were found at each sampling site and in all samples. No microscale nor mesoscale variability in floating marine plastics abundance (particles/m2) was encountered throughout the study area where similar values were found in protected areas with no local land-based contamination sources, such as Columbretes [0.04 (±0.03) particles/m2], and in high anthropized areas, such as the island of Mallorca [0.04 (±0.07) particles/m2]. However, differences were found in characteristics of plastic items (shape, polymer, and size range), with the protected area of Columbretes characterized by the presence of the highest density of very small plastic items composed mainly of fragments (93%). Quantified plastics from the marine environment were composed mainly of polyethylene (PE, 63.3%), polypropylene (PP; 24.9%), polycarbonate (PC; 4.6%) and polystyrene (PS, 3.3%). The polymer composition showed a homogenous composition between islands and differences were detected only amongst Columbretes and the other islands. Results from this study provide further evidence of the ubiquity of plastics in the marine environment and highlight that remote and protected areas, such as Columbretes, are not exempt from plastic pollution, but receptor areas for small and aged floating plastics composed mainly by fragments, which might have potentially harmful effects on protected ecosystems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- V Fagiano
- Centro Oceanográfico de Baleares (IEO, CSIC), Muelle de Poniente S/n, 07015, Mallorca, Spain; University of Balearic Islands, Palma de Mallorca, Spain.
| | - M Compa
- Centro Oceanográfico de Baleares (IEO, CSIC), Muelle de Poniente S/n, 07015, Mallorca, Spain
| | - C Alomar
- Centro Oceanográfico de Baleares (IEO, CSIC), Muelle de Poniente S/n, 07015, Mallorca, Spain
| | - K García-Marcos
- Centro Oceanográfico de Baleares (IEO, CSIC), Muelle de Poniente S/n, 07015, Mallorca, Spain
| | - S Deudero
- Centro Oceanográfico de Baleares (IEO, CSIC), Muelle de Poniente S/n, 07015, Mallorca, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
Use of the Sentinel-2 and Landsat-8 Satellites for Water Quality Monitoring: An Early Warning Tool in the Mar Menor Coastal Lagoon. REMOTE SENSING 2022. [DOI: 10.3390/rs14122744] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/07/2022]
Abstract
During recent years, several eutrophication processes and subsequent environmental crises have occurred in Mar Menor, the largest hypersaline coastal lagoon in the Western Mediterranean Sea. In this study, the Landsat-8 and Sentinel-2 satellites are jointly used to examine the evolution of the main water quality descriptors during the latest ecological crisis in 2021, resulting in an important loss of benthic vegetation and unusual mortality events affecting different aquatic species. Several field campaigns were carried out in March, July, August, and November 2021 to measure water quality variables over 10 control points. The validation of satellite biogeochemical variables against on-site measurements indicates precise results of the water quality algorithms with median errors of 0.41 mg/m3 and 2.04 FNU for chlorophyll-a and turbidity, respectively. The satellite preprocessing scheme shows consistent performance for both satellites; therefore, using them in tandem can improve mapping strategies. The findings demonstrate the suitability of the methodology to capture the spatiotemporal distribution of turbidity and chlorophyll-a concentration at 10–30 m spatial resolution on a systematic basis and in a cost-effective way. The multitemporal products allow the identification of the main critical areas close to the mouth of the Albujon watercourse and the beginning of the eutrophication process with chlorophyll-a concentration above 3 mg/m3. These innovative tools can support decision makers in improving current monitoring strategies as early warning systems for timely assistance during these ecological disasters, thus preventing detrimental conditions in the lagoon.
Collapse
|
27
|
Bayo J, Rojo D, Olmos S. Weathering indices of microplastics along marine and coastal sediments from the harbor of Cartagena (Spain) and its adjoining urban beach. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 178:113647. [PMID: 35429837 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113647] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2021] [Revised: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 04/03/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
Marine and coastal sediments from the harbor of Cartagena (Spain) and its adjoining beach were investigated regarding their microplastic burden. Fibers accounted for 47.62% and 61.66% in marine and coastal sediments, respectively, followed by films (31.43% and 18.76%) and fragments (20.95% and 18.65%). Polyvinyl (36.07%), polypropylene (21.31%), and polyethylene (18.03%) were isolated for marine sediments, and low-density polyethylene (40.71%), polypropylene (20.16%), and acrylate (11.37%) for coastal sediments. Highest concentrations were found in the deepest marine sediments (24.0 m) and in the furthest zone from the seashore for coastal sediments (18 m). Carbonyl index increased in the intermediate area (12.5 m) for marine sediments (0.51), whilst vinyl index was maximum for the deepest samples (1.94), reporting Norrish type I and II reactions, respectively. Coastal sediments collected close to the high tide line displayed the highest average values for both indices, 1.57 and 1.29, respectively, indicating a higher exposition to weathering variables.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Javier Bayo
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena, Paseo Alfonso XIII 44, E-30203 Cartagena, Spain.
| | - Dolores Rojo
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena, Paseo Alfonso XIII 44, E-30203 Cartagena, Spain
| | - Sonia Olmos
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, Technical University of Cartagena, Paseo Alfonso XIII 44, E-30203 Cartagena, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Seasonal Distribution, Composition, and Inventory of Plastic Debris on the Yugang Park Beach in Zhanjiang Bay, South China Sea. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2022; 19:ijerph19084886. [PMID: 35457751 PMCID: PMC9032269 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph19084886] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2022] [Revised: 04/08/2022] [Accepted: 04/15/2022] [Indexed: 02/05/2023]
Abstract
Plastic debris contamination in marine environments is a global problem that poses a considerable threat to the sustainability and health of coastal ecosystems. Marine beaches, as the key zones where terrestrial plastic debris reach coastal waters, are faced with the increasing pressures of human activities. In this study, we explored the distribution, composition, and inventory of plastic debris over seasonal and tidal zones at the Yugang Park Beach (YPB) in Zhanjiang Bay, South China Sea, to provide a baseline for plastic debris on a marine beach. The results showed mean abundance of plastic debris in summer (6.00 ± 2.10 items/m2) was significantly greater than that in winter (3.75 ± 2.12 items/m2). In addition, the composition of plastic debris ranged in size mainly from 1 to 5 mm and 0.5 to 2.5 cm in winter and summer, respectively. In terms of composition, white plastic debris was the most common (81.1%), and foam was the most abundant (64.4%). Moreover, there was a significant relationship between the abundance of plastic debris and sand grain size fraction (p < 0.05), implying the abundances of microplastic debris were more easily impacted by sand grain size (>2 mm). In total inventory, there were about 1.18 × 105 and 2.95 × 105 items of plastic debris on the YPB in winter and summer, respectively. The tidal variation and human activities are responsible for the plastic debris accumulation. This study provided a method to quantify the inventory of plastic debris on a beach and could be helpful to consider regional tidal variations and critical source areas for effective plastic debris clean-up.
Collapse
|
29
|
Gao Z, Wontor K, Cizdziel JV, Lu H. Distribution and characteristics of microplastics in beach sand near the outlet of a major reservoir in north Mississippi, USA. MICROPLASTICS AND NANOPLASTICS 2022; 2:10. [PMID: 38911023 PMCID: PMC11192453 DOI: 10.1186/s43591-022-00029-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2021] [Accepted: 02/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
Plastic debris both affects and is affected by the beaches it accumulates on. Most studies of microplastics (MPs) in beach sand are focused on coastal beaches or beaches of large lakes near population centers. Here, we assessed MP pollution at a sandy beach near the outlet of a major flood control reservoir (Sardis Lake) in a relatively unpopulated area in north Mississippi, USA, focusing on two prominent wrack zones and areas in-between. Putative MPs were isolated by density separation and matrix digestion, and then examined using stereomicroscopy, with a subset of samples additionally analyzed by μ-FTIR. MP abundance (particles/kg ± 1 standard error (SE), n = 15) averaged of 590 ± 360, with 950 ± 100 in the lower wrack zone, 540 ± 40 in the upper wrack zone, and 270 ± 30 in areas between; these differences were statistically significant (p < 0.01). The MPs generally had similar size and shape characteristics across sites. The majority were fibers (64%), followed by fragments (23%), beads (7%) and films (6%), with a slightly greater proportion of fibers in the wrack zones compared to areas in-between. The number of MPs rose dramatically with decreasing size. Beads were only found in the < 500 μm size fraction. Clear and blue were the predominant colors for all MPs. A total of 29 different types of polymers were detected, with more than half of the particles being composed of polyethylene and polyamide, followed by poly(methyl methacrylate), polyethylene terephthalate, polycarbonate, polypropylene, and others; although this distribution varied some depending on size fraction and location. Because there are no major wastewater discharges into Sardis Lake, the source of the MPs is likely degradation of carelessly discarded plastic, as well as atmospheric fallout. Overall, we found that MP concentrations were highest in the wrack zones and influenced by rates and duration of discharge from the reservoir. Thus, like coastal beaches, wrack zones on freshwater beaches along or downstream of reservoirs accumulate both macro- and micro-plastics and are prime locations for plastic cleanup. Finally, we show that MPs made from naturally weathered LDPE plastic film are prone to fragmentation during pretreatment procedures, which may result in its overestimation.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqiang Gao
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
| | - Kendall Wontor
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
| | - James V. Cizdziel
- Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Mississippi, University, MS 38677, USA
| | - Haitao Lu
- South China Institute of Environmental Science, Ministry of Environmental Protection, Guangzhou 510535, China
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Riani E, Cordova MR. Microplastic ingestion by the sandfish Holothuria scabra in Lampung and Sumbawa, Indonesia. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 175:113134. [PMID: 34823866 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.113134] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/27/2021] [Revised: 10/27/2021] [Accepted: 11/08/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
This study investigated the abundances and characteristics of microplastics in sediments and sandfish (Holothuria scabra) in Lampung and Sumbawa, Indonesia. Microplastics were found in 89.02% of all sandfish samples, with an average abundance of 2.01 ± 1.59 particles individual-1. The abundance of microplastics was 58.42 ± 24.33 particles kg-1 in surface sediments. Furthermore, there was a positive relationship between the abundance of microplastics in sandfish and sediments. Fragments and fibers with small-sized microplastics (300-1000 μm) were the most abundant types found in sandfish and sediments. Fourier-transform infrared (FTIR) analysis showed that polyethylene (30.08%), polypropylene (30.08%), polyurethane (12.20%), and polyethylene terephthalate (8.94%) were the most abundant polymers in the samples. Our results strongly indicate that microplastics in Lampung and Sumbawa originate from the fragmentation of large plastics. Better solid waste management in Indonesia is needed to reduce plastic waste leakage, which could become microplastics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Etty Riani
- Department of Aquatic Resources Management, Faculty of Fishery and Marine Science, Bogor Agricultural University, Jalan Rasamala Kampus IPB Dramaga, Bogor 16680, Indonesia.
| | - Muhammad Reza Cordova
- Research Center for Oceanography, Indonesian Institute of Sciences, Jl, Pasir Putih 1, Ancol Timur, Jakarta 14430, Indonesia; Research Center for Oceanography, National Research and Innovation Agency, Jl, Pasir Putih 1, Ancol Timur, Jakarta 14430, Indonesia.
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Nabi I, Bacha AUR, Zhang L. A review on microplastics separation techniques from environmental media. JOURNAL OF CLEANER PRODUCTION 2022; 337:130458. [DOI: 10.1016/j.jclepro.2022.130458] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/02/2023]
|
32
|
Arreola-Alarcón IM, Reyes-Bonilla H, Sakthi JS, Rodríguez-González F, Jonathan MP. Seasonal tendencies of microplastics around coral reefs in selected Marine Protected National Parks of Gulf of California, Mexico. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 175:113333. [PMID: 35123271 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113333] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2021] [Revised: 12/29/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
This study focuses on the presence of MPs in the sediment beds around coral reefs of MPNPs in Baja California Sur, México. Based on seasonal sampling results, comparison of MPs from Cabo Pulmo (avg. 680.25 items/100 g-1 d.w) recorded higher values than Espiritu Santo Island (avg. 321.75 items/100 g-1 d.w) from backshore/foreshore regions. Fibrous MPs are the dominant morphotypes followed by fragments and spheres. SEM/EDS analysis revealed that the MPs are altered texturally in surface and is bioavailable to marine organisms independent of size/shape. FTIR analysis indicate different polymers (in %) in the form of PP (70), PET (65), HDPE (59), LDPE (50), PS (30), PC (18), PU (10) and RYN (10). Most of the MPs are secondary in origin resulting from man-made and tourist's activities controlled by wave transportation and tidal currents. Existence of MPs in sediment beds around the coral reefs signals the ways for future investigations.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- I Montserrat Arreola-Alarcón
- Departamento Académico de Ciencias Marinas y Costeras, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California Sur, Carretera al Sur K.M 5.5, Apartado Postal 19-B, C.P.23080 La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico
| | - H Reyes-Bonilla
- Departamento Académico de Ciencias Marinas y Costeras, Universidad Autónoma de Baja California Sur, Carretera al Sur K.M 5.5, Apartado Postal 19-B, C.P.23080 La Paz, Baja California Sur, Mexico
| | - J S Sakthi
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Investigaciones y Estudios sobre Medio Ambiente y Desarrollo (CIIEMAD), Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), Calle 30 de Junio de 1520, Barrio la Laguna Ticomán, Del. Gustavo A. Madero, C.P.07340 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - Francisco Rodríguez-González
- Centro de Desarrollo de Productos Bióticos (CEPROBI), Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), Carretera Yautepec-Jojutla Km. 6, Calle CEPROBI No. 8, Col. San Isidro, Yautepec, Morelos C.P. 62731, Mexico
| | - M P Jonathan
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Investigaciones y Estudios sobre Medio Ambiente y Desarrollo (CIIEMAD), Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), Calle 30 de Junio de 1520, Barrio la Laguna Ticomán, Del. Gustavo A. Madero, C.P.07340 Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
Deme GG, Ewusi-Mensah D, Olagbaju OA, Okeke ES, Okoye CO, Odii EC, Ejeromedoghene O, Igun E, Onyekwere JO, Oderinde OK, Sanganyado E. Macro problems from microplastics: Toward a sustainable policy framework for managing microplastic waste in Africa. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 804:150170. [PMID: 34517317 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.150170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 24] [Impact Index Per Article: 12.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/18/2021] [Revised: 09/01/2021] [Accepted: 09/02/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution is a ubiquitous and emerging environmental and public health concern in Africa due to increased plastic production, product and waste importation, and usage. While studies on the environmental monitoring and characterization of microplastics demonstrated the urgent need for a drastic reduction in plastic waste generation, the effectiveness of the various regulatory and policy interventions implemented or proposed in Africa countries remains poorly understood. We critically examined policies, legislations, and regulations enacted to control microplastic pollution in Africa to develop a sustainable, harmonized framework for the coordinated reduction of plastic waste generation across Africa. Analysis of the interventions revealed most African countries employed traditional perspective (i.e., command-and-control) approaches, whereby state instruments such as plastic ban, production and importation levies, and consumer taxes were enacted. However, the continued increase in microplastic waste generation suggests traditional perspective approaches might not be effective in Africa. Although rarely used in Africa, market-oriented approaches such as private-public waste management are often effective in controlling plastic pollution. Hence, we proposed a bottom-up hybrid regulatory approach for managing microplastics pollution in Africa, involving price-based, right-base, legislation and behavioral frameworks based on best practices in microplastic waste management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Gideon Gywa Deme
- Key Laboratory of Animal Ecology and Conservation Biology, Institute of Zoology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100101, PR China; Organization of African Academic Doctor (OAAD), Off Kamiti Road, P. O. Box 25305000100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - David Ewusi-Mensah
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lake of Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China; Organization of African Academic Doctor (OAAD), Off Kamiti Road, P. O. Box 25305000100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Oluwatosin Atinuke Olagbaju
- TOF-MR, PET/CT, Molecular Imaging Research Center, Harbin Medical University & Biological Trace Element Laboratory, Department of Physics and Engineering Physics, Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile-Ife, Nigeria; Organization of African Academic Doctor (OAAD), Off Kamiti Road, P. O. Box 25305000100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Emmanuel Sunday Okeke
- Department of Biochemistry, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Nigeria, Nsukka 41000, Enugu State, Nigeria; Natural Science Unit, School of General Studies, University of Nigeria, Nsukka 41000, Enugu State, Nigeria; School of Environment and safety engineering, Jiangsu University, China; Organization of African Academic Doctor (OAAD), Off Kamiti Road, P. O. Box 25305000100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Charles Obinwanne Okoye
- School of Environment and safety engineering, Jiangsu University, China; Department of Zoology and Environmental Biology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria; Organization of African Academic Doctor (OAAD), Off Kamiti Road, P. O. Box 25305000100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Elijah Chibueze Odii
- Department of Zoology and Environmental Biology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria; Organization of African Academic Doctor (OAAD), Off Kamiti Road, P. O. Box 25305000100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Onome Ejeromedoghene
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southeast University, Jiangning District, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 211189, PR China; Organization of African Academic Doctor (OAAD), Off Kamiti Road, P. O. Box 25305000100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Eghosa Igun
- Department of Environmental Management and Toxicology, Western Delta University, Ogara, Nigeria & Key Laboratory of Regional Climate-Environment for Temperate East Asia, Institute of Atmospheric Physic, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing; Organization of African Academic Doctor (OAAD), Off Kamiti Road, P. O. Box 25305000100, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Joseph Okoro Onyekwere
- Department of Zoology and Environmental Biology, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Nigeria; Organization of African Academic Doctor (OAAD), Off Kamiti Road, P. O. Box 25305000100, Nairobi, Kenya.
| | - Olayinka Kehinde Oderinde
- School of Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, Southeast University, Jiangning District, Nanjing, Jiangsu Province 211189, PR China; Organization of African Academic Doctor (OAAD), Off Kamiti Road, P. O. Box 25305000100, Nairobi, Kenya
| | - Edmond Sanganyado
- Guangdong Provincial Laboratory of Marine Biotechnology, Institute of Marine Science, Shantou University, Shantou, Guangdong 515063, China; Organization of African Academic Doctor (OAAD), Off Kamiti Road, P. O. Box 25305000100, Nairobi, Kenya
| |
Collapse
|
34
|
Peñalver R, Ortiz A, Arroyo-Manzanares N, Campillo N, López-García I, Viñas P. Non-targeted analysis by DLLME-GC-MS for the monitoring of pollutants in the Mar Menor lagoon. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 286:131588. [PMID: 34293555 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.131588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2021] [Revised: 07/08/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Non-targeted analysis for the monitoring of organic pollutants resulting from agricultural and industrial practices, plastics and pharmaceutical products of seawater from the Mar Menor lagoon (SE Spain) is proposed using dispersive liquid-liquid microextraction (DLLME) and gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Initially, a home-made MS database including 118 environmental organic pollutants, whose presence in different ecosystems has already been reported, was created. The analytical method was applied for the analysis of 42 samples and a total of 18 pollutants were detected and identified. Samples were obtained from different sites around the Mar Menor in three sampling campaigns, enabling the assessment of impact of rain on the input of the detected chemicals and their distribution. In addition, this methodology was validated using a standard mixture containing 54 of the environmental pollutants included in the database, allowing the quantification of the 9 of the identified compounds (dibutyl phthalate, diisobutyl phthalate, diethyl phthalate, bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, anthracene, 2-methylnaphthalene, hexachlorocyclopentadiene, bis(2-ethylhexyl) adipate and oleamide) with concentration between 3 and 271 μg L-1.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rosa Peñalver
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, E-30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - Alberto Ortiz
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, E-30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - Natalia Arroyo-Manzanares
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, E-30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - Natalia Campillo
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, E-30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - Ignacio López-García
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, E-30100, Murcia, Spain
| | - Pilar Viñas
- Department of Analytical Chemistry, Faculty of Chemistry, Regional Campus of International Excellence "Campus Mare Nostrum", University of Murcia, E-30100, Murcia, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Kwak JI, Liu H, Wang D, Lee YH, Lee JS, An YJ. Critical review of environmental impacts of microfibers in different environmental matrices. Comp Biochem Physiol C Toxicol Pharmacol 2022; 251:109196. [PMID: 34601087 DOI: 10.1016/j.cbpc.2021.109196] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Revised: 09/13/2021] [Accepted: 09/22/2021] [Indexed: 12/11/2022]
Abstract
Microfibers, as globally emerging environmental pollutants, have received increasing attention over recent years. In ecosystems, natural textile microfibers are the predominant fibers. The inadvertent ingestion of microplastics by organisms in an ecosystem provides a channel for microfibers to enter biological webs. Based on existing research on microfibers, this review summarizes the potential adverse impacts of microfibers on organisms living in marine, freshwater, and soil ecosystems, and provides a brief introduction to the source of microfibers, as well as the related current status and future challenges. Although previous studies have recorded the adverse effects of microfibers on ecosystems, there remains a lack of evidence on the toxic effects of microfibers on the primary producer level in food chains (e.g., phytoplankton). This is essential, as the long-term effects of microfiber toxicity on different ecosystems ultimately affect human health. The analysis of microfiber toxicity paves the way for the field of environmental research and provides future perspectives for researchers in the fields of ecotoxicology and microplastics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jin Il Kwak
- Department of Environmental Health Science, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, South Korea
| | - Huanliang Liu
- Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Diseases in Ministry of Education, School of Public Health, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Dayong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Developmental Genes and Human Diseases in Ministry of Education, Medical School, Southeast University, Nanjing 210009, China
| | - Young Hwan Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, South Korea
| | - Jae-Seong Lee
- Department of Biological Sciences, College of Science, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 16419, South Korea
| | - Youn-Joo An
- Department of Environmental Health Science, Konkuk University, Seoul 05029, South Korea.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Corami F, Rosso B, Morabito E, Rensi V, Gambaro A, Barbante C. Small microplastics (<100 μm), plasticizers and additives in seawater and sediments: Oleo-extraction, purification, quantification, and polymer characterization using Micro-FTIR. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 797:148937. [PMID: 34303248 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.148937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2021] [Revised: 06/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
In this study, the abundance and the distribution of small microplastics (<100 μm, SMPs) and of other components of micro-litter (i.e., additives, plasticizers, natural and non-plastic synthetic fibers, APFs) were investigated in sediments and seawater of three different sites of a transitional environment; different anthropogenic impacts and environmental features characterize these three sites. The pretreatment method developed (oleo-extraction and purification procedures) allowed the collection of particles (SMPs and APFs) in a wide range of densities, e.g., from low-density plastics to high-density plastics, avoiding further degradation/denaturation of polymers. An analytical method for quantification and simultaneous identification of SMPs and APFs via Micro-FTIR was developed. Higher abundances of SMPs were observed in sediments compared to the abundance observed in seawater. SMPs were not the major component of the micro-litter. With natural fibers and non-plastic fibers, additives and plasticizers were quantified and identified in sediments and seawater. These latter are employed to obtain specific characteristics of polymers; hence their presence can be a good proxy of these polymers' presence in the environment. Sources and pathways may influence the abundance and distribution of SMPs and APFs. Differences in abundance and distribution of these pollutants in sediments and seawater of the three sites investigated were statistically significant.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fabiana Corami
- Institute of Polar Sciences, CNR-ISP, Campus Scientifico Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino, 155, 30172 Venezia-Mestre, Italy; Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino, 155, 30172 Venezia-Mestre, Italy.
| | - Beatrice Rosso
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino, 155, 30172 Venezia-Mestre, Italy.
| | - Elisa Morabito
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino, 155, 30172 Venezia-Mestre, Italy.
| | - Veronica Rensi
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino, 155, 30172 Venezia-Mestre, Italy.
| | - Andrea Gambaro
- Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino, 155, 30172 Venezia-Mestre, Italy.
| | - Carlo Barbante
- Institute of Polar Sciences, CNR-ISP, Campus Scientifico Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino, 155, 30172 Venezia-Mestre, Italy; Department of Environmental Sciences, Informatics and Statistics, Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino, 155, 30172 Venezia-Mestre, Italy.
| |
Collapse
|
37
|
Tsukada E, Fernandes E, Vidal C, Salla RF. Beach morphodynamics and its relationship with the deposition of plastic particles: A preliminary study in southeastern Brazil. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 172:112809. [PMID: 34365157 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112809] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/27/2021] [Revised: 07/30/2021] [Accepted: 07/31/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
This study describes the beach profile, characterizes microplastics and correlates their abundance with morphodynamics characteristics on three beaches from the state of São Paulo, Brazil. 745 particles were found in 4 m2 of sediment, mostly styrofoam. Nearly 90% of the fragments were found in Boracéia, the most dissipative beach, while less than 1% were found in Juréia beach, the most reflective one. The chemical composition of microplastics was identified by near-infrared hyperspectral imaging (HSI-NIR). The correlation between the abundance of particles and the slope plus the extension of the sand strip was high, as well as that found with the waves' height. These preliminary results indicate that there might be an intrinsic relation among the morphodynamical forces, the movement and destination of microplastics in marine environments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elisabete Tsukada
- Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar), Sorocaba Campus, Biology Department, Brazil; Post-graduation Program of Biotechnology and Environmental Monitoring - PPGBMA, Brazil.
| | - Ermínio Fernandes
- Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar), Sorocaba Campus, Geography Department, Brazil
| | - Cristiane Vidal
- University of Campinas (UNICAMP), Institute of Chemistry, Brazil
| | - Raquel Fernanda Salla
- Federal University of São Carlos (UFSCar), Sorocaba Campus, Biology Department, Brazil; Post-graduation Program of Biotechnology and Environmental Monitoring - PPGBMA, Brazil
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Scopetani C, Chelazzi D, Martellini T, Pellinen J, Ugolini A, Sarti C, Cincinelli A. Occurrence and characterization of microplastic and mesoplastic pollution in the Migliarino San Rossore, Massaciuccoli Nature Park (Italy). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 171:112712. [PMID: 34246930 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112712] [Citation(s) in RCA: 26] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/05/2021] [Revised: 07/02/2021] [Accepted: 07/05/2021] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics pollution is progressively threatening natural parks across the world. In the framework of monitoring this concerning trend, the present study focuses on the occurrence and identification of mesoplastics (MEPs) and microplastics (MPs) in sand samples collected before and after the summer season from the beach of the Nature Park of Migliarino San Rossore Massaciuccoli (Pisa, Italy). Meso- and microplastics were identified using Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy 2D Imaging, and detected in all samples with average concentrations of 207 ± 30 MPs/kg d.w., and 100 ± 44 MEPs/kg d.w., respectively. Seasonal changes of flow of the Arno River, industrial activities, and urban footprint were considered as the major sources of plastic pollution. Our results showed the occurrence of both natural and synthetic polymers including cellulose, polyethylene, polypropylene, polyamides, polyethylene terephthalate, and acrylonitrile.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Costanza Scopetani
- Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Ecosystems and Environment Research Programme, University of Helsinki, Niemenkatu 73, FI-15140 Lahti, Finland.
| | - David Chelazzi
- Department of Chemistry Ugo Schiff, University of Florence, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019 Florence, Italy; Consorzio Interuniversitario per lo Sviluppo dei Sistemi a Grande Interfase (CSGI), Sesto Fiorentino, 50019 Florence, Italy.
| | - Tania Martellini
- Department of Chemistry Ugo Schiff, University of Florence, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019 Florence, Italy
| | - Jukka Pellinen
- Faculty of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Ecosystems and Environment Research Programme, University of Helsinki, Niemenkatu 73, FI-15140 Lahti, Finland
| | - Alberto Ugolini
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Via Romana 17, 50125 Florence, Italy
| | - Chiara Sarti
- Department of Chemistry Ugo Schiff, University of Florence, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019 Florence, Italy
| | - Alessandra Cincinelli
- Department of Chemistry Ugo Schiff, University of Florence, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019 Florence, Italy; Consorzio Interuniversitario per lo Sviluppo dei Sistemi a Grande Interfase (CSGI), Sesto Fiorentino, 50019 Florence, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Expósito N, Rovira J, Sierra J, Folch J, Schuhmacher M. Microplastics levels, size, morphology and composition in marine water, sediments and sand beaches. Case study of Tarragona coast (western Mediterranean). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 786:147453. [PMID: 33964765 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.147453] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/11/2021] [Revised: 04/22/2021] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Mediterranean Sea has been proposed as the sixth greatest accumulation zone for marine litter and the most affected regarding to microplastics (MPs). Tarragona (Catalonia, NE Spain) coastal region suffers high pressure due to urbanization, tourism, industrial harbour and petrochemical/plastic industries. The present study aims to quantify and characterize in size, morphology and composition the MPs present in sandy beaches, marine sediments, and surface seawaters of Tarragona coastal region. MPs mean abundance were 1.30 items/m3 in surface seawaters, 32.4 items/kg in marine sediments, and 10.7 items/kg in sandy beaches. Polyester fibres were dominant MPs in bottom sediments and seawater meanwhile polyethylene and polypropylene fragments were the main MPs in beaches. The fibres balls associated with bottom sediments, organic matter and plankton were abundant, masking the real quantity of fibres in each reservoir. The abundance by volume of seawater MPs was higher to those found in oceanic areas and similar to other areas of Mediterranean Sea, corroborating that Western Mediterranean Sea as a region of MPs accumulation. MPs composition and abundance suggested the input of numerous land-base-sources, WWTP (wastewater treatment plants) effluents discharges, and emissaries as the most important. Marine MPs pollution were studied from an integrative point of view, that includes superficial sea water, sand from beaches and sediments. The dynamics of MPs in Tarragona coast were characterized by seawater as the media that receive and facilitate dispersion and fragmentation. The shoreline acts as an intermediate reservoir with constant weathering and active exchange with seawater surface and the sediments acts as a significant sink for medium MPs sizes. It is necessary to develop protocols and guidelines for MPs analysis to obtain harmonized and comparable results.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nora Expósito
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Departament d'Enginyeria Quimica, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Av. Països Catalans 26, 43007 Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Joaquim Rovira
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Departament d'Enginyeria Quimica, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Av. Països Catalans 26, 43007 Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain; Laboratory of Toxicology and Environmental Health, School of Medicine, IISPV, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Sant Llorenç 21, 43201 Reus, Catalonia, Spain.
| | - Jordi Sierra
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Departament d'Enginyeria Quimica, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Av. Països Catalans 26, 43007 Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain; Laboratory of Soil Science, Faculty of Pharmacy, Universitat de Barcelona, Av. Joan XXIII s/n, 08028 Barcelona, Catalonia, Spain
| | - Jaume Folch
- Departament de Bioquímica i Biotecnologia, Facultat de Medicina i Ciències de la Salut, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Reus, Tarragona, Spain
| | - Marta Schuhmacher
- Environmental Engineering Laboratory, Departament d'Enginyeria Quimica, Universitat Rovira i Virgili, Av. Països Catalans 26, 43007 Tarragona, Catalonia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Martín-Lara MA, Godoy V, Quesada L, Lozano EJ, Calero M. Environmental status of marine plastic pollution in Spain. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 170:112677. [PMID: 34186451 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2021] [Revised: 06/17/2021] [Accepted: 06/24/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The excessive use of plastic in our society is causing a massive accumulation, since it is a non-biodegradable product and with still poor recycling rates. This effect can be observed in the seas, which more and more plastic waste are accumulating. The present work is a critical review, based on all currently available literature, that reports environmental status of marine plastic pollution, especially microplastic pollution, in Spain. The three Spanish water areas with the highest presence of plastics are the Alboran Sea, the Gulf of Alicante and the vicinity of Barcelona probably related to fishing and industrial activities and high population densities. With regard to microplastic contamination on beaches in Spain, annual monitoring by the Spanish government shows contamination along the entire coast of the country, with particularly high concentrations in the Canary Islands (between 800 and 8800 particles/m2 in spring). Between 40 and 50% of the particles analyzed were pellets and the main factors postulated for the distribution of these particles are marine currents and the geomorphological characteristics. With regards to biota, ingestion of microplastics by fish has been intensely confirmed and, important differences were observed between the locations of the sampling, being bogues (Boops boops) one of the fish species more studied in Spain. Finally, the work includes a revision of European and Spanish legislation about plastics and marine pollution and some strategies to reduce this kind of contamination in Spain.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M A Martín-Lara
- Department of Chemical Engineering University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain.
| | - V Godoy
- Department of Chemical Engineering University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain.
| | - L Quesada
- Department of Chemical Engineering University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain.
| | - E J Lozano
- Department of Chemical Engineering University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain.
| | - M Calero
- Department of Chemical Engineering University of Granada, 18071 Granada, Spain.
| |
Collapse
|
41
|
Environmental Microplastic Particles vs. Engineered Plastic Microparticles-A Comparative Review. Polymers (Basel) 2021; 13:polym13172881. [PMID: 34502921 PMCID: PMC8434362 DOI: 10.3390/polym13172881] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/23/2021] [Revised: 07/16/2021] [Accepted: 08/21/2021] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Microplastic particles (MPs) pose a novel threat to nature. Despite being first noticed in the 1970s, research on this topic has only surged in recent years. Researchers have mainly focused on environmental plastic particles; however, studies with defined microplastic particles as the sample input are scarce. Furthermore, comparison of those studies indicates a discrepancy between the particles found (e.g., in the environment) and those used for further research (e.g., exposure studies). Obviously, it is important to use particles that resemble those found in the environment to conduct appropriate research. In this review, different categories of microplastic particles are addressed, before covering an overview of the most common separation and analysis methods for environmental MPs is covered. After showing that the particles found in the environment are mostly irregular and polydisperse, while those used in studies with plastic microparticles as samples are often not, different particle production techniques are investigated and suggestions for preparing realistic plastic particles are given.
Collapse
|
42
|
Gao F, Li J, Hu J, Sui B, Wang C, Sun C, Li X, Ju P. The seasonal distribution characteristics of microplastics on bathing beaches along the coast of Qingdao, China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 783:146969. [PMID: 33866158 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.146969] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2021] [Revised: 03/15/2021] [Accepted: 04/01/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics pollution in nearshore marine environment has become increasingly prominent and has received widespread attention. As a major leisure and entertainment place in coastal cities, bathing beaches not only provide an environment for microplastics to enter the ocean, but also provide a place for the retention of microplastics. In this paper, the distribution, composition and seasonal variation of microplastics in seawater and sediments of six bathing beaches along the coast of Qingdao were studied. The results showed that the average abundance of microplastics in the sediments of the Qingdao bathing beach was 91.11 ± 26.76 items/m2 (13.77 ± 4.39 items/kg) in the winter and 147.78 ± 34.80 items/m2 (21.98 ± 5.97 items/kg) in the summer. The microplastic abundance in the seawater in the summer (average: 567.50 ± 101.06 items/m3) was significantly higher than that in the winter (average: 326.11 ± 49.03 items/m3, p < 0.05). The abundance of microplastics at the six bathing beaches increased from east to west, consistent with the transport direction of coastal currents. The microplastic abundance in the sediment of non-swimming zone of the bathing beach was significantly higher than that in swimming zone (p < 0.05), and the microplastic abundance in the seawater of the swimming zone was slightly higher than that of the non-swimming zone but with no significant difference (p > 0.05). To an extent, it can reflect the correlation between the abundance of microplastics and human recreational activities. The microplastics detected at the bathing beaches were mainly lines (80.5%) and fragments (7.9%) with a size range of 100 to 1000 μm. Rayon (41.8%) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET, 16.9%) were the main polymer types. The microplastic characteristics showed significant seasonal differences, more diversity in summer than in winter. These results emphasized that the distribution and movement of microplastics in bathing beaches were affected by seasons, human activities and coastal currents.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Fenglei Gao
- Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China; Laboratory of Marine Drugs and Bioproducts, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266071, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Eco-environmental Science and Technology, Marine Bioresource and Environment Research Center, First Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Qingdao 266061, China
| | - Jingxi Li
- Key Laboratory of Marine Eco-environmental Science and Technology, Marine Bioresource and Environment Research Center, First Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Qingdao 266061, China
| | - Jun Hu
- Research Vessel Operation Center, First Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Qingdao 266061, China
| | - Baolu Sui
- Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266042, China
| | - Chuanxing Wang
- Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266042, China
| | - Chengjun Sun
- Laboratory of Marine Drugs and Bioproducts, Pilot National Laboratory for Marine Science and Technology, Qingdao 266071, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Eco-environmental Science and Technology, Marine Bioresource and Environment Research Center, First Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Qingdao 266061, China.
| | - Xianguo Li
- Key Laboratory of Marine Chemistry Theory and Technology, Ministry of Education, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266100, China.
| | - Peng Ju
- Key Laboratory of Marine Eco-environmental Science and Technology, Marine Bioresource and Environment Research Center, First Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Qingdao 266061, China
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Kumar AS, Varghese GK. Microplastic pollution of Calicut beach - Contributing factors and possible impacts. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 169:112492. [PMID: 34051522 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112492] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/13/2021] [Revised: 05/06/2021] [Accepted: 05/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Annual monitoring was carried out in the shoreline sediments of the Calicut beach, from 2016 to 2019 to understand the distribution and abundance of microplastics and its environmental implications. Further, the impact of the severe fluvial floods of Kerala during the August months of 2018 and 2019, on the microplastic pollution of the Calicut beach was also determined. Microplastic concentrations ranged between 80.56 items/kg of dry sand to 467.13 items/kg of dry sand during the sampling period. Polyethylene type was consistently higher in all the samples. There was a surge in microplastics concentration during both the floods with a higher proportion of low-retention-period microplastics. Among the different oceanographic parameters, it was found that significant wave height and surface wind speed are positively correlated to the number of the microplastics in Calicut beach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ashwini Suresh Kumar
- Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology Calicut, India
| | - George K Varghese
- Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology Calicut, India.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Sevwandi Dharmadasa WLS, Andrady AL, Kumara PBTP, Maes T, Gangabadage CS. Microplastic pollution in Marine Protected Areas of Southern Sri Lanka. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 168:112462. [PMID: 33993039 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112462] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 05/01/2021] [Accepted: 05/04/2021] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitous in marine environment. The prevalence of MPs in coastal and lagoon sediments, and water were studied in two Marine Protected Areas (MPAs); Bundala National Park (BNP) and Hikkaduwa Marine National Park (HNP) in Sri Lanka. Both areas are important for turtles, birds and coral ecosystems, all of which are particularly threatened by MPs. Abundance of MPs was generally higher in both coastal sediments and waters in HNP (111±29 MPs/m2 for sediments and 0.515±0.054 MPs/m3 for water) than in the BNP (102±16 MPs/m2 for sediments and 0.276±0.077 MPs/m3 for water). The most common shape and polymer type of MPs were fragments and Polyethylene respectively. This research is the first to survey MPs in MPAs in Sri Lanka and provides a baseline of MPs pollution in these environments for future research and management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- W L S Sevwandi Dharmadasa
- Department of Oceanography and Marine Geology, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences & Technology, University of Ruhuna, Matara, Sri Lanka.
| | - A L Andrady
- Department of Biology and Marine Biology, University of North Carolina at Wilmington, Wilmington, NC 28403, USA
| | - P B Terney Pradeep Kumara
- Department of Oceanography and Marine Geology, Faculty of Fisheries and Marine Sciences & Technology, University of Ruhuna, Matara, Sri Lanka; Marine Environment Protection Authority, No.177, Nawala Road, Narahenpita, Colombo 05, Sri Lanka
| | - T Maes
- Grid-Arendal, Teaterplassen 3, 4836 Arendal, Norway
| | - C S Gangabadage
- Department of Chemistry, Faculty of Science, University of Ruhuna, Matara, Sri Lanka
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Commercial Gilthead Seabream ( Sparus aurata L.) from the Mar Menor Coastal Lagoon as Hotspots of Microplastic Accumulation in the Digestive System. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH AND PUBLIC HEALTH 2021; 18:ijerph18136844. [PMID: 34202236 PMCID: PMC8297190 DOI: 10.3390/ijerph18136844] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2021] [Revised: 06/21/2021] [Accepted: 06/23/2021] [Indexed: 12/17/2022]
Abstract
This paper presents the results on the presence and characterization of microplastics (MP) in the gastrointestinal tract of gilthead seabream (Sparus aurata L.), a species of commercial interest from the Mar Menor coastal lagoon in Southeast Spain. This is the first time that microplastic ingestion is recorded in any species from this semi-enclosed bay. Stomach and intestine from a total of 17 specimens captured by local fishermen were processed, and microplastic particles and fibers found in all of them were displayed. Overall, 40.32% (279/692) of total isolated microparticles proved to be microplastics; i.e., <5 mm, as identified by FTIR spectroscopy. The average value by fish was 20.11 ± 2.94 MP kg-1, corresponding to average concentrations of 3912.06 ± 791.24 and 1562.17 ± 402.04 MP by kg stomach and intestine, respectively. Four MP forms were isolated: fiber (71.68%), fragment (21.15%), film (6.81%), and microbead (0.36%), with sizes ranging from 91 µm to 5 mm, an average of 0.83 ± 0.04 mm, and no statistically significant differences between mean sizes in stomach and intestine samples (F-test = 0.004; p = 0.936). Nine polymer types were detected, although most of fibers remained unidentified because of their small size, the presence of polymer additives, or closely adhered pollutants despite the oxidizing digestion carried out to eliminate organic matter. No significant correlation was found between main biological parameters and ingested microplastics, and high-density polyethylene (HDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polyethylene polypropylene (PEP), and polyvinyl (PV) were identified as the most abundant polymers. The average microplastic ingestion in this study area was higher than those reported in most studies within the Mediterranean Sea, and closely related to microplastic pollution in the surrounding area, although with a predominance of fiber form mainly due to fishery activities.
Collapse
|
46
|
Clayer F, Jartun M, Buenaventura NT, Guerrero JL, Lusher A. Bypass of Booming Inputs of Urban and Sludge-Derived Microplastics in a Large Nordic Lake. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2021; 55:7949-7958. [PMID: 34061508 PMCID: PMC8277126 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c08443] [Citation(s) in RCA: 19] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2020] [Revised: 04/30/2021] [Accepted: 05/17/2021] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic research, initially focusing on marine environments, left freshwater ecosystems largely unexplored. Freshwaters are also vulnerable to microplastics and are likely the largest microplastic supplier to the ocean. However, microplastic sources, transport pathways, and fluxes at the catchment level remain to be quantified, compromising efficient actions toward mitigation and remediation. Here we show that 70-90% of microplastics reaching Norway's largest lake, originating primarily from urban waste mismanagement and sludge application on crops, continue their journey toward the ocean without being buried. Indeed, our microplastic budget for the catchment shows that out of the 35.9 tons (7.4-119.4 t) of microplastics annually released into the lake, only 3.5 tons (1.3-8.8 t) are settling to the lake bottom. The spatial and vertical microplastic distribution and diversity in lake sediments, the socio-economic modeling of plastic fluxes and spatial information on land use and potential plastic sources all point toward urban and agricultural areas as emission hotspots of increasing importance. We conclude that the degree to which lake sediments represent a net microplastic sink is likely influenced by the nature of microplastics the lake receives, and ultimately on their origin.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- François Clayer
- Norwegian
Institute for Water Research (NIVA), Gaustadalléen 21, 0349 Oslo, Norway
| | - Morten Jartun
- Norwegian
Institute for Water Research (NIVA), Gaustadalléen 21, 0349 Oslo, Norway
| | - Nina T. Buenaventura
- Norwegian
Institute for Water Research (NIVA), Gaustadalléen 21, 0349 Oslo, Norway
| | - Jose-Luis Guerrero
- Norwegian
Institute for Water Research (NIVA), Gaustadalléen 21, 0349 Oslo, Norway
| | - Amy Lusher
- Norwegian
Institute for Water Research (NIVA), Gaustadalléen 21, 0349 Oslo, Norway
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Assessment of Microplastics in a Municipal Wastewater Treatment Plant with Tertiary Treatment: Removal Efficiencies and Loading per Day into the Environment. WATER 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/w13101339] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/22/2023]
Abstract
This study investigates the removal of microplastics from wastewater in an urban wastewater treatment plant located in Southeast Spain, including an oxidation ditch, rapid sand filtration, and ultraviolet disinfection. A total of 146.73 L of wastewater samples from influent and effluent were processed, following a density separation methodology, visual classification under a stereomicroscope, and FTIR analysis for polymer identification. Microplastics proved to be 72.41% of total microparticles collected, with a global removal rate of 64.26% after the tertiary treatment and within the average retention for European WWTPs. Three different shapes were identified: i.e., microfiber (79.65%), film (11.26%), and fragment (9.09%), without the identification of microbeads despite the proximity to a plastic compounding factory. Fibers were less efficiently removed (56.16%) than particulate microplastics (90.03%), suggesting that tertiary treatments clearly discriminate between forms, and reporting a daily emission of 1.6 × 107 microplastics to the environment. Year variability in microplastic burden was cushioned at the effluent, reporting a stable performance of the sewage plant. Eight different polymer families were identified, LDPE film being the most abundant form, with 10 different colors and sizes mainly between 1–2 mm. Future efforts should be dedicated to source control, plastic waste management, improvement of legislation, and specific microplastic-targeted treatment units, especially for microfiber removal.
Collapse
|
48
|
Tang X, Zhou M, Fan C, Zeng G, Gong R, Xu Q, Song B, Yang Z, Yang Y, Zhou C, Ren X, Wang W. Benzyl butyl phthalate activates prophage, threatening the stable operation of waste activated sludge anaerobic digestion. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 768:144470. [PMID: 33454470 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.144470] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/10/2020] [Revised: 12/07/2020] [Accepted: 12/08/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The stable operation of the anaerobic digestion of waste activated sludge (WAS) is threatened by numerous emerging contaminants. Meanwhile, the extensive microplastic pollution increased the environmental exposure risk of plasticizer benzyl butyl phthalate (BBP), the BBP content has reached a substantial level in WAS. However, the effect of BBP on WAS anaerobic digestion is still unknown. Here we show that high-level BBP brings on anaerobic digestion upset. The presence of 10.0 mg/L BBP (in sludge with 17,640 ± 510 mg/L TSS) led to deferred cell lysis, which was confirmed by the results of continuous parallel factor analysis of dissolved organic matter and the liberation of lactate dehydrogenase. Further, the deferred cell rupture was confirmed associate with prophage activation during WAS anaerobic digestion. Besides solubilization, the hydrolysis, acetogenesis and methanogenesis were also affected by the addition of BBP. The long-term effects of BBP revealed that the dominant microbial structure in anaerobic digester was stable, but the abundance of many functional microorganisms was changed, including short chain fatty acid producers and consumers. This work highlights one of the susceptibility mechanisms for WAS anaerobic digestion processes and provides new perspectives for the comprehensive assessment of emerging contaminant's environmental risks.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Tang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, R.P. China
| | - Man Zhou
- Power China Zhongnan Engineering Corporation Limited, Changsha, Hunan 410014, China
| | - Changzheng Fan
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, R.P. China.
| | - Guangming Zeng
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, R.P. China
| | - Rui Gong
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, R.P. China
| | - Qiuxiang Xu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, R.P. China
| | - Biao Song
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, R.P. China
| | - Zhaohui Yang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, R.P. China
| | - Yang Yang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, R.P. China
| | - Chengyun Zhou
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, R.P. China
| | - Xiaoya Ren
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, R.P. China
| | - Wenjun Wang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University and Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha 410082, R.P. China
| |
Collapse
|
49
|
Cutroneo L, Reboa A, Geneselli I, Capello M. Considerations on salts used for density separation in the extraction of microplastics from sediments. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 166:112216. [PMID: 33684703 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/28/2020] [Revised: 02/15/2021] [Accepted: 02/24/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Environmental contamination by plastics and microplastics is a recognised problem worldwide, and it is the focus of many research teams. In the quantification of microplastics in the environment (plastic items with dimensions between 1 μm and 5 mm), the search for shared and universally recognised protocols and methodologies is still ongoing. In this study, the use of a method for extracting microplastics from marine sediments based on density separation has been considered. Fifty studies were analysed to investigate the scenario of salts exploited during microplastic extraction. The most commonly used salts are NaCl (45.6%), ZnCl2 (19.3%) and NaI (17.5%). Considerations related to cost, availability, hazards of the salts and thus the repeatability of the related extraction method are reported. In light of the findings, NaCl remains the most readily usable, economical and effective salt for the extraction of microplastics from marine sediments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Laura Cutroneo
- DISTAV - University of Genoa, 26 Corso Europa, I-16032 Genoa, Italy.
| | - Anna Reboa
- DISTAV - University of Genoa, 26 Corso Europa, I-16032 Genoa, Italy
| | - Irene Geneselli
- DISTAV - University of Genoa, 26 Corso Europa, I-16032 Genoa, Italy
| | - Marco Capello
- DISTAV - University of Genoa, 26 Corso Europa, I-16032 Genoa, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Sharma VK, Ma X, Guo B, Zhang K. Environmental factors-mediated behavior of microplastics and nanoplastics in water: A review. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 271:129597. [PMID: 33460897 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.129597] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 18.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/15/2020] [Revised: 01/01/2021] [Accepted: 01/05/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
The release of plastics in nature is an increasing global concern due to their degradation from microplastics (MPs) and even to nanoplastics (NPs), which are being recognized as a potential global threat to humans and environment. This paper summarizes the current knowledge on the effect of different environmental factors on the aggregation of MPs and NPs in aquatic environment. Stability (or extent of aggregation) of MPs and NPs varies with pH, ionic strength, ion type (monovalent, divalent, and trivalent), kind of minerals, and natural organic matter (NOM) of the aquatic environment. Electrostatic interactions between particles at different pH and ionic strength caused by salts of different valents govern the aggregation. In the presence of minerals (or inorganic colloids), net surface charge of mineral and surface potential of MPs and NPs (i.e., positive or negative surface functionality) play important roles in the heteroaggregation of MPs and NPs. In the presence of NOM, additional complex interactions including hydrophobic interactions and bridging are also involved in the aggregation of particles. Understanding the interactions of MPs and NPs of different surface charge with diverse environmental factors at a wide range of environmental conditions is pivotal to assess the mobility and the fate of degraded plastic particles and their risk to human health and ecological systems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Virender K Sharma
- Program of the Environment and Sustainability, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
| | - Xingmao Ma
- Zachery Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA.
| | - Binglin Guo
- Program of the Environment and Sustainability, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA; Zachery Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| | - Kaiyi Zhang
- Program of the Environment and Sustainability, Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA; Zachery Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Texas A&M University, College Station, TX, 77843, USA
| |
Collapse
|