1
|
Chubarenko I, Krivoshlyk P, Esiukova E, Zobkov M, Fetisov S. Natural sorting of sediments in the wave run-up zone works for microplastics as well. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 208:117060. [PMID: 39361990 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.117060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/03/2024] [Revised: 09/15/2024] [Accepted: 09/25/2024] [Indexed: 10/05/2024]
Abstract
The distribution of plastic pollution in the marine environment is highly variable in time and space, making it difficult to assess pollution levels. This study shows that mixing and natural sorting of material in the wave run-up zone of a sandy beach results in a relatively stable abundance of microplastics in the size range 0.5-2 mm (S-MPs). Based on 175 samples collected over 14 months during 42 monitoring surveys at 6 stations along the shore of the Vistula Spit (Baltic Sea), the mean abundance of S-MPs was found to be 64 ± 36 items/kg DW (98.6 % fibers), with a coefficient of variation of only 56 % over more than one year. Statistical tests confirmed its independence from current wind speed, significant wave height, mean sediment grain size, sediment sorting, percentage of certain sand fractions, month, season, or location along the shore. It can therefore be used as a suitable indicator for long-term monitoring of increasing plastic pollution in the marine environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Irina Chubarenko
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 36, Nakhimovskiy prospekt, Moscow 117997, Russia.
| | - Polina Krivoshlyk
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 36, Nakhimovskiy prospekt, Moscow 117997, Russia; Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, 14, Alexander Nevsky str., Kaliningrad 236041, Russia
| | - Elena Esiukova
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 36, Nakhimovskiy prospekt, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Mikhail Zobkov
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 36, Nakhimovskiy prospekt, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Sergei Fetisov
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 36, Nakhimovskiy prospekt, Moscow 117997, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Fetisov S, Esiukova E, Lobchuk O, Chubarenko I. Abundance and mass of plastic litter on sandy shore: Contribution of stormy events. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 207:116911. [PMID: 39241369 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116911] [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: 07/01/2024] [Revised: 08/17/2024] [Accepted: 08/28/2024] [Indexed: 09/09/2024]
Abstract
The accumulation of marine litter on beaches has a detrimental impact on the environment, human health, and recreational activities. A total of 116 monitoring surveys were conducted along the shore of the Kaliningrad region between 2019 and 2023. Sampling of anthropogenic and plastic litter (>0.5 cm) was carried out under various meteorological conditions on eight sandy beaches. The greatest abundance and mass of plastic marine litter (mean ± SE: 13.75 ± 8.61 items/m2 and 19.97 ± 5.92 gDW/m2, correspondingly) were observed in the aftermath of storms within beach-cast accumulation stains at the shoreline, where it was intermixed with organic debris. This is two orders of magnitude greater than the plastic litter contamination obtained using the OSPAR methodology at the same beach during fine weather (0.11 ± 0.01 items/m2, 0.33 ± 0.02 gDW/m2). The results suggest that the most effective strategy for beach cleaning is to implement it in the post-storm period.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sergei Fetisov
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 36, Nakhimovsky Prosp., Moscow 117997, Russia.
| | - Elena Esiukova
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 36, Nakhimovsky Prosp., Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Olga Lobchuk
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 36, Nakhimovsky Prosp., Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Irina Chubarenko
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 36, Nakhimovsky Prosp., Moscow 117997, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Cocozza P, Serranti S, Setini A, Cucuzza P, Bonifazi G. Monitoring of contamination by microplastics on sandy beaches at Vulcano Island (Sicily, Italy) by hyperspectral imaging. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024:10.1007/s11356-024-34972-6. [PMID: 39320598 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-34972-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/11/2024] [Accepted: 09/09/2024] [Indexed: 09/26/2024]
Abstract
In this work, the monitoring and characterization of large microplastics (1-5 mm) collected from sandy beaches of Vulcano Island (Aeolian Islands, Sicily, Italy) were carried out for the first time. Microplastics were sampled from two beaches, "Gelso" and "Sabbie Nere," in three different time periods. The following characteristics of microplastic samples were assessed: quantity, distribution, categories, color, polymer type, size, and shape parameters. The polymers were identified using hyperspectral imaging, whereas an automatic image analysis approach was employed to determine microplastics' morphological and morphometrical attributes. Finally, the microplastic diversity integrated index was computed to obtain information on the potential emission sources of microplastics. It was found that the concentration of microplastics varies from 0.27 particles/kg_dw to 1.35 particles/kg_dw with fragment being the main collected category, with minor amount of pellet, foam, film, and filament. The predominant color of microplastics was by far white, followed by blue and yellow. The identified polymers were polyethylene and polypropylene followed by expanded polystyrene, polyamide, polystyrene, and polyethylene terephthalate. The morphological and morphometrical characterization highlighted a large variability for most size and shape parameters. Finally, the Microplastics Diversity Integrated Index results showed average indices compared to the literature, with higher values for the "Gelso" site (0.656), indicating a higher heterogeneity of sources, with respect to "Sabbie Nere" beach (0.530).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Pietro Cocozza
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Materials and Environment, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Eudossiana 18, 00184, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Serranti
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Materials and Environment, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Eudossiana 18, 00184, Rome, Italy.
| | - Andrea Setini
- Department of Biology and Biotechnology "Charles Darwin, Sapienza University of Rome, Section of Zoology Viale Dell'Università, 32, 00185, Rome, Italy
| | - Paola Cucuzza
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Materials and Environment, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Eudossiana 18, 00184, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Bonifazi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Materials and Environment, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Eudossiana 18, 00184, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Dacewicz E, Łobos-Moysa E, Chmielowski K. Identification Tools of Microplastics from Surface Water Integrating Digital Image Processing and Statistical Techniques. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 17:3701. [PMID: 39124364 PMCID: PMC11313241 DOI: 10.3390/ma17153701] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/26/2024] [Revised: 07/17/2024] [Accepted: 07/20/2024] [Indexed: 08/12/2024]
Abstract
The primary objective of this study was to demonstrate the potential of digital image analysis as a tool to identify microplastic (MP) particles in surface waters and to facilitate their characterisation in terms of 2D and 3D morphology. Digital image analysis preceded by microscopic analysis was used for an exhaustive quantitative and qualitative evaluation of MPs isolated from the Vistula River. Using image processing procedures, 2D and 3D shape descriptors were determined. Principal Component Analysis was used to interpret the relationships between the parameters studied, characterising MP particle geometry, type and colour. This multivariate analysis of the data allowed three or four main factors to be extracted, explaining approximately 90% of the variation in the data characterising MP morphology. It was found that the first principal component for granules, flakes and films was largely represented by strongly correlated with 2D shape descriptors (area, perimeter, equivalent area diameter) and 3D shape descriptors (Corey Shape Factor, Compactness, Dimensionality). Considering the scraps, principal component PC1 was represented by only five of the above descriptors, and the Compactness variable had the largest contribution to principal component PC2. In addition, for granules, flakes and films, a relationship between 2D shape and the colour of their particles could be observed. For the most numerous MP group identified of multicoloured scraps, no such association was found. The results of our study can be used for further multivariate analysis regarding the presence of microplastic floating on the river surface, with a particular focus on particles of secondary origin. This is of key importance for optimising future efforts in conducting small-scale and multidimensional monitoring of and reducing plastics in the aquatic environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ewa Dacewicz
- Department of Sanitary Engineering and Water Management, Faculty of Environmental Engineering and Land Surveying, University of Agriculture in Kraków, Adam Mickiewicz Ave. 24/28, 30-059 Kraków, Poland
| | - Ewa Łobos-Moysa
- Department of Water and Wastewater Engineering, Faculty of Power and Environmental Engineering, Silesian University of Technology, Akademicka 2A Str., 44-100 Gliwice, Poland;
| | - Krzysztof Chmielowski
- Department of Natural Gas Engineering, Faculty of Drilling, AGH University of Science and Technology, Oil and Gas, Adam Mickiewicz Ave. 30, 30-059 Kraków, Poland;
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Galli M, Baini M, Panti C, Tepsich P, Rosso M, Giannini F, Galgani F, Fossi MC. Paraffin waxes in the North-Western Mediterranean Sea: A comprehensive assessment in the Pelagos Sanctuary, a Specially Protected Area of Mediterranean Importance. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 467:133677. [PMID: 38340565 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133677] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/29/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Paraffin waxes are widely recognized as emerging marine pollutants, even their classification by the recent monitoring programs and the knowledge of their occurrence, and sources of contamination in marine ecosystems are poorly defined and reported. Wax presence and distribution have been evaluated in different environmental compartments in the Pelagos Sanctuary (Mediterranean Sea) floating on the sea surface and stranded on beaches, focussing on their characterization, accumulation areas and pollution inputs. More than 2500 yellow paraffin residues were detected and analysed in the study area showing a prevailing dimension smaller than 5 mm. The Genoa Canyon and the waters facing Gorgona Island resulted in the more polluted areas representing two distinct hotspots of wax accumulation potentially related to the high density of tanker vessels sailing to and from the harbour of Genova and Livorno. Higher concentrations of beached particles were found along the Tuscan coast (11 items/100 m) and on Pianosa Island (110 items/m2). This study gives valuable insights into paraffin wax pollution in the Pelagos Sanctuary, emphasizing the need for harmonized monitoring and detection methods to elucidate the potential impacts on marine organisms. Moreover, mitigating actions are crucial to prevent and curb the waxes pollution of marine ecosystems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- M Galli
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Italy
| | - M Baini
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Italy; NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, Palermo, Italy.
| | - C Panti
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Italy; NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, Palermo, Italy
| | - P Tepsich
- NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, Palermo, Italy; CIMA Research Foundation, 17100 Savona, Italy
| | - M Rosso
- NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, Palermo, Italy; CIMA Research Foundation, 17100 Savona, Italy
| | - F Giannini
- National Park of the Tuscan Archipelago, 57037 Portoferraio, Italy
| | - F Galgani
- IFREMER, Unit RMPF, Vairao, Tahiti, French Polynesia
| | - M C Fossi
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, Italy; NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, Palermo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
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
|
7
|
Marcus L, Mardones JI, Rioseco JT, Pinochet J, Montes C, Corredor-Acosta A, Moreno-Meynard P, Garcés-Vargas J, Jorquera E, Iriarte JL, Urbina MA. Evidence of plastic pollution from offshore oceanic sources in southern Chilean Patagonian fjords. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 911:168706. [PMID: 37992835 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168706] [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: 08/20/2023] [Revised: 10/26/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 11/24/2023]
Abstract
The Chilean Patagonian fjords are globally renowned as one of the few remaining pristine environments on Earth; however, their ecosystems are under significant threat from climatic and anthropogenic pressures. Of particular concern is the lack of research into the impact of plastic pollution on the waters and biodiversity of these fjords. In this study, the marine environment of a secluded and sparsely populated fjord system in southern Patagonia was sampled to assess microplastics in seawater, beaches, bottom sediment, and zooplankton. Microplastics were found to be widespread across the water surface of the fjord, but with low abundances of 0.01 ± 0.01 particles m-3 (mean ± SD). The presence of microplastics in sedimentary environments (e.g., beaches and bottom sediments, 15.6 ± 15.3 and 9.8 ± 24 particles kg of dry sediment-1, respectively) provided additional evidence of plastic debris accumulation within the fjord system. Furthermore, microplastics were already bioavailable to key zooplankton species of the Patagonian food web (0.01 ± 0.02 particles individual-1), suggesting bioaccumulation. A comprehensive examination of potential microplastic inputs originating from coastal runoff, coupled with distribution of water masses, suggested minimal local contribution of microplastics to the fjord, strongly indicating that plastic litter is likely entering the area through oceanic currents. The composition and type of microplastics, primarily consisting of polyester fibers (approx. 60 %), provided further support for the proposed distant origin and transportation into the fjord by oceanographic drivers. These results raise significant concern as reveal that despite a lack of nearby population, industrial or agricultural activity, remote Patagonian fjords are still impacted by plastic pollution originating from distant sources. Prioritizing monitoring efforts is crucial for effectively assessing the future trends and ecological impact of plastic pollution in these once so-called pristine ecosystems.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lara Marcus
- Facultad de Medicina y Ciencia, Universidad San Sebastián, Lago Panguipulli 1390, 5501842 Puerto Montt, Chile.
| | - Jorge I Mardones
- Centro de Estudios de Algas Nocivas (CREAN), Instituto de Fomento Pesquero (IFOP), Puerto Montt, Chile; Centro de Investigación en Recursos Naturales y Sustentabilidad (CIRENYS), Universidad Bernardo O'Higgins, Santiago, Chile
| | - Jazmin Toledo Rioseco
- Departamento de Zoología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Oceanográficas, Universidad de Concepción, Chile
| | - Javier Pinochet
- Departamento de Zoología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Oceanográficas, Universidad de Concepción, Chile.; Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Católica de La Santísima Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - Caroline Montes
- Laboratory of Ecotoxicology and Laboratory of Marine Environmental Monitoring Research (LAPMAR), Federal University of Pará (UFPA), Belém, Pará, Brazil
| | - Andrea Corredor-Acosta
- Centro FONDAP de Investigación en Dinámica de Ecosistemas Marinos de Altas Latitudes (IDEAL), Valdivia 5090000, Chile
| | | | - José Garcés-Vargas
- Centro FONDAP de Investigación en Dinámica de Ecosistemas Marinos de Altas Latitudes (IDEAL), Valdivia 5090000, Chile; Instituto de Ciencias Marinas y Limnológicas, Universidad Austral de Chile, Valdivia 5090000, Chile
| | - Erika Jorquera
- Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad Católica de La Santísima Concepción, Concepción, Chile
| | - José Luis Iriarte
- Centro FONDAP de Investigación en Dinámica de Ecosistemas Marinos de Altas Latitudes (IDEAL), Valdivia 5090000, Chile; Instituto de Acuicultura, Universidad Austral de Chile, Puerto Montt, Chile
| | - Mauricio A Urbina
- Departamento de Zoología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Oceanográficas, Universidad de Concepción, Chile.; Instituto Milenio de Oceanografía (IMO), Universidad de Concepción, PO Box 1313, Concepción, Chile
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Anderson RJ, Turner A. Microplastic transport and deposition in a beach-dune system (Saunton Sands-Braunton Burrows, southwest England). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 909:168535. [PMID: 37977395 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168535] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/14/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/10/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
Although microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitous contaminants that have been extensively studied in the marine setting, there remain gaps in our understanding of their transport and fate in the coastal zone. In this study, MPs isolated from surface sediments sampled from a large beach-dune complex in southwest England have been quantified and characterised. Concentrations above a detectable size limit of 30 to 50 μm ranged from about 40 to 560 MP kg-1 dry weight but, despite local sources of plastics such as an estuary and seasonal tourism, there were no significant differences in median concentrations between different orthogonal foreshore transects and the dunes or according to zonal location on the beach. The majority of MPs were black and blue fibres of <1 mm in length that were constructed of polymers of density > 1 g cm-3 (e.g., rayon, polyester, acrylic). A significant correlation was found between MP concentration and the proportion of very fine sand (100 to 250 μm) but relationships with other granulometric or compositional markers of sediment (e.g., volume-weighted mean diameter, circularity, calcium content) were not evident. An association of MP concentration with very fine sand was attributed to similar particle depositional characteristics and the entrapment of fibres within small interstitial spaces. Overall, the observations reflect the wavelaid and windlaid deposition of MPs from a diffuse, offshore source, and, despite their role as accumulators of particles from the foreshore, dunes do not appear to act as a landward barrier of MPs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Rachael J Anderson
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK
| | - Andrew Turner
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Plymouth, Drake Circus, Plymouth PL4 8AA, UK.
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Saliu F, Lasagni M, Clemenza M, Chubarenko I, Esiukova E, Suaria G. The interactions of plastic with tar and other petroleum derivatives in the marine environment: A general perspective. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 197:115753. [PMID: 37952374 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115753] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/01/2023] [Revised: 10/31/2023] [Accepted: 11/02/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Plastic and oil pollution are closely linked to our dependence on petroleum derivatives. Their excessive use and inefficiencies in their management, have led to negative impacts on marine ecosystems since their very introduction. Agglomerates of tar, plastic, paraffins, and other petrochemicals and oil derivatives with naturally occurring materials, are increasingly widespread in coastal environments, stalling as an iconic and readable sign of environmental degradation. Starting from a historical review of the available reports on the occurrence of similar aggregates dating back to 1971, we highlight how most of these observations are based on the morphological description of the petroleum residues with no chemical fingerprinting and are mainly related to materials stranded on the coastline, with few and unclear indications for the open sea. We discuss here a list of scientific questions and knowledge gaps, that need to be examined by future studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Francesco Saliu
- Earth and Environmental Science Department, University of Milano Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 1, 20126 Milano, Italy.
| | - Marina Lasagni
- Earth and Environmental Science Department, University of Milano Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 1, 20126 Milano, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Clemenza
- National Institute of Nuclear Physic (INFN) Milano Bicocca branch, Piazza della Scienza 2, 20126 Milano, Italy
| | - Irina Chubarenko
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 36 Nakhimovsky Prosp., Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Elena Esiukova
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 36 Nakhimovsky Prosp., Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Giuseppe Suaria
- CNR-ISMAR, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, Istituto di Scienze Marine, Pozzuolo di Lerici, 19032 La Spezia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Howard SA, Carr CM, Sbahtu HI, Onwukwe U, López MJ, Dobson ADW, McCarthy RR. Enrichment of native plastic-associated biofilm communities to enhance polyester degrading activity. Environ Microbiol 2023; 25:2698-2718. [PMID: 37515381 PMCID: PMC10947123 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.16466] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/01/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/30/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution is an increasing worldwide problem urgently requiring a solution. While recycling rates are increasing globally, only 9% of all plastic waste has been recycled, and with the cost and limited downstream uses of recycled plastic, an alternative is needed. Here, we found that expanded polystyrene (EPS) promoted high levels of bacterial biofilm formation and sought out environmental EPS waste to characterize these native communities. We demonstrated that the EPS attached communities had limited plastic degrading activity. We then performed a long-term enrichment experiment where we placed a robust selection pressure on these communities by limiting carbon availability such that the waste plastic was the only carbon source. Seven of the resulting enriched bacterial communities had increased plastic degrading activity compared to the starting bacterial communities. Pseudomonas stutzeri was predominantly identified in six of the seven enriched communities as the strongest polyester degrader. Sequencing of one isolate of P. stutzeri revealed two putative polyesterases and one putative MHETase. This indicates that waste plastic-associated biofilms are a source for bacteria that have plastic-degrading potential, and that this potential can be unlocked through selective pressure and further in vitro enrichment experiments, resulting in biodegradative communities that are better than nature.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sophie A. Howard
- Centre for Inflammation Research and Translational Medicine, Division of Biosciences, Department of Life Sciences, College of Health and Life SciencesBrunel University LondonUxbridgeUK
| | - Clodagh M. Carr
- School of MicrobiologyUniversity College CorkCorkIreland
- SSPC‐SFI Research Centre for PharmaceuticalsUniversity College CorkCorkIreland
| | - Habteab Isaack Sbahtu
- Centre for Inflammation Research and Translational Medicine, Division of Biosciences, Department of Life Sciences, College of Health and Life SciencesBrunel University LondonUxbridgeUK
| | - Uchechukwu Onwukwe
- Experimental Techniques Centre, College of Engineering, Design and Physical SciencesBrunel University LondonUxbridgeUK
| | - Maria J. López
- Department of Biology and Geology, CITE II‐BUniversity of Almería, Agrifood Campus of International Excellence ceiA3, CIAIMBITALAlmeriaSpain
| | - Alan D. W. Dobson
- School of MicrobiologyUniversity College CorkCorkIreland
- SSPC‐SFI Research Centre for PharmaceuticalsUniversity College CorkCorkIreland
| | - Ronan R. McCarthy
- Centre for Inflammation Research and Translational Medicine, Division of Biosciences, Department of Life Sciences, College of Health and Life SciencesBrunel University LondonUxbridgeUK
| |
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: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [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
|
Gómez VA, Pozo K, Clérandeau C, Cachot J, Montes C, Přibylová P, Glabán-Malagón C, Clarke B, Klanova J, Morin B. Plastic debris, persistent organic pollutants and their toxicity impacts in coastal areas in Central Chile. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 194:115361. [PMID: 37579596 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115361] [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: 05/10/2023] [Revised: 07/19/2023] [Accepted: 07/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/16/2023]
Abstract
The chemical components of plastic wastes have made their disposal a major economic, social, and environmental problem worldwide. This study evaluated the acute toxicity and genotoxicity of marine plastic debris on the beaches of Concepción Bay, Central Chile, taken during three periods (spring, summer, and winter). An integrated approach was used, including chemical and toxicological data, using the Microtox® test with Vibrio fischeri and SOS chromotest with Escherichia coli and concentrations of polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), Organochlorine Pesticides (OCPs) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs). The results presented here exclusively include the novel data obtained from the winter campaign, revealing high concentrations of PBDEs (238 ± 521 ng g-1). In addition, the genotoxicity and acute toxicity tests were sensitive for most of the samples studied. This investigation is the first attempt to analyse the toxicity of plastic debris in coastal areas along the Chilean coast.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Victoria A Gómez
- Department of Physical, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Siena, 53100, Italy,; Centro GEMA (Genómica, Ecología y Medio Ambiente), Universidad Mayor, Huechuraba, Santiago 8580000, Chile; Anillo en Ciencia y Tecnología Antártica POLARIX, Chile.
| | - Karla Pozo
- Facultad de Ingeniería, Arquitectura y Diseño, Universidad San Sebastián, Lientur, 1457, Concepción 4080871, Chile; Masaryk University, Faculty of Science (RECETOX), Kamenice 753/5, 62500, Brno, Czech Republic.
| | | | - Jérôme Cachot
- Univ. Bordeaux, CNRS, Bordeaux INP, EPOC, UMR 5805, F-33600 Pessac, France
| | - Caroline Montes
- Departamento de Zoología, Facultad de Ciencias Naturales y Oceanográficas, Universidad de Concepción, 4070386, Chile
| | - Petra Přibylová
- Masaryk University, Faculty of Science (RECETOX), Kamenice 753/5, 62500, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Cristóbal Glabán-Malagón
- Centro GEMA (Genómica, Ecología y Medio Ambiente), Universidad Mayor, Huechuraba, Santiago 8580000, Chile; Anillo en Ciencia y Tecnología Antártica POLARIX, Chile; Institute of Environment, Florida International University, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Bradley Clarke
- School of Chemistry, Australian Laboratory for Emerging Contaminants (ALEC), The University of Melbourne, Grattan Street, Melbourne, Victoria 3010, Australia
| | - Jana Klanova
- Masaryk University, Faculty of Science (RECETOX), Kamenice 753/5, 62500, Brno, Czech Republic
| | - Bénédicte Morin
- Univ. Bordeaux, CNRS, Bordeaux INP, EPOC, UMR 5805, F-33600 Pessac, France.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Şener İ, Yabanlı M. Macro- and microplastic abundance from recreational beaches along the South Aegean Sea (Türkiye). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 194:115329. [PMID: 37499467 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115329] [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: 05/21/2023] [Revised: 07/18/2023] [Accepted: 07/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
This study aimed to evaluate the abundance and diversity of macro- and microplastics in sand samples collected during summer and winter from eight different beaches used for recreational purposes located on the South Aegean coasts of Türkiye. According to the results, microplastic in fiber shape was dominant on all the beaches. The highest microplastic abundance was determined at Ölüdeniz Kumburnu Beach (360.00 ± 237.66 particles kg-1 dw) in summer and at Aktur Beach (358.33 ± 397.24 particles kg-1 dw) in winter. A significant positive correlation was found in the winter between microplastic amounts and wind speed. The study area is an important touristic center faraway from major cities and industrial areas. Thus, plastic pollution in this area may be the result of tourism activities in the summer, discharge waters from wastewater treatment plants or transportation by meteorological factors (like waves, wind or river flows).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- İdris Şener
- Department of Aquatic Sciences, Faculty of Fisheries, Mugla Sitki Kocman University, Mugla, Turkey.
| | - Murat Yabanlı
- Department of Aquatic Sciences, Faculty of Fisheries, Mugla Sitki Kocman University, Mugla, Turkey
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Lenz M, Brennecke D, Haeckel M, Knickmeier K, Kossel E. Spatio-temporal variability in the abundance and composition of beach litter and microplastics along the Baltic Sea coast of Schleswig-Holstein, Germany. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 190:114830. [PMID: 36989596 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 02/26/2023] [Accepted: 03/08/2023] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Abundance and composition of beach litter and microplastics (20-5000 μm, excluding fibres) were assessed in spring and autumn 2018 at various beaches along the Baltic Sea coast of Schleswig-Holstein, Northern Germany. The beach litter survey followed the OSPAR guidelines, while microplastics were extracted from sediment samples using density separation and were then identified with Raman μ-spectroscopy. We observed seasonality in the abundance and composition, but not in the mass of beach litter. The median microplastic abundance was 2 particles per 500 g of dry sediment in spring as well as in autumn, while six different synthetic polymers (PE, PP, PS, PET, PVC, POM) were detected. We found no correlation between the abundances of beach litter and microplastics. Our data represent the first systematic co-assessment of macro- and micro beach litter along the Baltic Sea coast of Schleswig-Holstein.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Mark Lenz
- Marine Ecology Department, GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel, Düsternbrooker Weg 20, 24105 Kiel, Germany.
| | - Dennis Brennecke
- Kiel Science Factory, Leibniz Institute for Science and Mathematics Education (IPN) and Kiel University, Am Botanischen Garten 16i, 24118 Kiel, Germany
| | - Matthias Haeckel
- Marine Geosystems, GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel, Wischhofstraße 1-3, 24148 Kiel, Germany
| | - Katrin Knickmeier
- Kiel Science Factory, Leibniz Institute for Science and Mathematics Education (IPN) and Kiel University, Am Botanischen Garten 16i, 24118 Kiel, Germany
| | - Elke Kossel
- Marine Geosystems, GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel, Wischhofstraße 1-3, 24148 Kiel, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Yang G, Yu Z, Baki ABM, Yao W, Ross M, Chi W, Zhang W. Settling behaviors of microplastic disks in water. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 188:114657. [PMID: 36736259 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114657] [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: 09/24/2022] [Revised: 01/19/2023] [Accepted: 01/22/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) disks have not been studied for settling behaviors in aquatic environments, which affects the transport and fate of MPs. Therefore, settling experiments were conducted on MP disks of three shapes and four common-seen materials. Lighter MP disks (with density ρs = 1.038 g/cm3 and length l ≤ 5 mm) followed rectilinear vertical trajectories, while heavier MP disks (ρs = 1.161-1.343 g/cm3 and l = 5 mm) followed zigzag trajectories with oscillations and rotations. The mean terminal settling velocities of MP disks were 19.6-48.8 mm/s. Instantaneous settling velocities of heavier MP disks fluctuated. Existing formulas could not accurately predict the settling velocity of MP disks; thus, a new model was proposed with an error of 15.5 %. Finally, the Red - I* diagram (Red is the disk Reynolds number and I* is the dimensionless moment of inertia) was extended for MP disks to predict settling trajectories.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ge Yang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1H9, Canada
| | - Zijian Yu
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1H9, Canada
| | - Abul B M Baki
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Clarkson University, Potsdam, NY 13699, USA
| | - Weiwei Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulics and Mountain River Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Matthew Ross
- Department of Physical Sciences, MacEwan University, Edmonton, AB T5J 4S2, Canada
| | - Wanqing Chi
- The First Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, 266061 Qingdao, China
| | - Wenming Zhang
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Alberta, Edmonton, AB T6G 1H9, Canada.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Wu X, Zhong C, Wang T, Zou X. Assessment on the pollution level and risk of microplastics on bathing beaches: a case study of Liandao, China. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2023; 195:383. [PMID: 36763164 PMCID: PMC9911957 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-023-10994-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/20/2022] [Accepted: 01/28/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution on bathing beaches threatens the health of human beings and coastal organisms. There is a lack of assessment on the level of microplastic pollution and the health risk associated with plastics. As one of the earliest open bathing beaches in China, Liandao is well known as the two high-quality beaches. However, little is known about the extent of microplastic pollution on these bathing beaches. Based on the analysis of microplastic pollution abundance, distribution, shape, size, color, and composition at the Liandao bathing beaches, this study puts forward a novel approach to comprehensively evaluate the microplastic pollution level and risk level by using the Nemerow pollution index (NPI) and polymer hazard index (PHI). The results show that the average abundance of microplastics on the Liandao bathing beaches is 135.42 ± 49.58 items/kg; the main shapes are fibers, fragments, and granules. Most of the microplastics are transparent, brown, and black, accounting for 71.54%, and they have an average particle size of 0.63 ± 0.43 mm. The main components are PE, PP, PS, PET, and nylon, of which nylon appears in the highest proportion (54.77%). The microplastic NPI and PHI values are 0.38 and 74.81, respectively, indicating that the pollution level and health risk index of microplastics on the Liandao bathing beaches are both low. With the increase in population and per capita consumption, plastic waste generated on land will continue to increase. Finally, this study puts forward some suggestions regarding microplastic monitoring, plastic waste management, and environmental attitudes and behavior.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xiaowei Wu
- School of History, Culture and Tourism, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian, 223300, China
| | - Chongqing Zhong
- School of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Huaiyin Normal University, Huaian, 223300, China
- School of Geographic and Oceanographic Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China
| | - Teng Wang
- College of Oceanography, Hohai University, Nanjing, 210093, China
| | - Xinqing Zou
- School of Geographic and Oceanographic Sciences, Nanjing University, Nanjing, 210093, China.
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Ashrafy A, Liza AA, Islam MN, Billah MM, Arafat ST, Rahman MM, Rahman SM. Microplastics Pollution: A Brief Review of Its Source and Abundance in Different Aquatic Ecosystems. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS ADVANCES 2023; 9:100215. [DOI: 10.1016/j.hazadv.2022.100215] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 09/27/2023]
|
18
|
Laurino IRA, Lima TP, Turra A. Effects of natural and anthropogenic storm-stranded debris in upper-beach arthropods: Is wrack a prey hotspot for birds? THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 857:159468. [PMID: 36257422 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.159468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 09/14/2022] [Accepted: 10/12/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Storm-stranded debris (i.e., wrack) are important components for the functioning of beach ecosystems. With the current increase in extreme storm events, beached wrack is expected to change globally. However, little is known about how different types of wrack can affect beach biodiversity. Here, we hypothesized that natural debris (algae and land-plant debris) would optimize the short-term aggregation of benthic arthropods on the beach ecosystem, while anthropogenic debris (plastics) would not perform this function. We also expected that short-term aggregations of arthropods in the natural debris would create a transient prey hotspot (i.e., points of high prey concentration) for birds on the beach. Thus, we performed manipulative field experiments with debris addition and predator exclusion by cage on a short temporal scale (maximum 20 days). We found that natural debris aggregated higher community abundances than anthropic debris and treatments without debris, while community richness was not affected by wrack. No differences were noted when comparing the community aggregation on plastic debris and treatments without debris. The coleopterans were the group responsible for this aggregation, mainly represented by Phaleria testacea, which aggregated on natural debris with abundances five times greater than those on plastic debris. Nevertheless, we did not find any evidence of increased predation by birds on the coleopterans aggregated in the natural debris. We conclude that arthropod aggregation in the wrack is a phenomenon primarily associated with natural debris, not occurring in plastic debris, although the role of this faunal aggregation as a prey hotspot for birds was not evident in the short term. These results showed that the wrack type matters in terms of consequences for beach arthropods, creating concerns against beach cleaning methods that are adopted indiscriminately, also signaling the need for long-term studies to proceed with investigating the wrack functions for top predators on sandy beaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ivan Rodrigo Abrão Laurino
- Oceanographic Institute, University of São Paulo (USP), Praça do Oceanográfico, 191, Cidade Universitária, CEP: 05508-120 São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| | - Tamiris Pereira Lima
- Biosciences Institute, São Paulo State University (UNESP), Coastal Campus, Praça Infante Dom Henrique, s/n, Parque Bitaru, CEP: 11330-900 São Vicente, SP, Brazil.
| | - Alexander Turra
- Oceanographic Institute, University of São Paulo (USP), Praça do Oceanográfico, 191, Cidade Universitária, CEP: 05508-120 São Paulo, SP, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
19
|
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: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [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
|
20
|
Narloch I, Gackowska A, Wejnerowska G. Microplastic in the Baltic Sea: A review of distribution processes, sources, analysis methods and regulatory policies. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2022; 315:120453. [PMID: 36272601 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.120453] [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: 07/06/2022] [Revised: 10/05/2022] [Accepted: 10/14/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics pollution is an issue of great concern for scientists, governmental bodies, ecological organisations, and the general public. Microplastics pollution is widespread and is a great environmental problem on account of its potential toxicity for marine biota and human health. Today, almost all the world's seas and oceans are polluted with microplastics. The Baltic Sea is a semi-enclosed reservoir of brackish water and is a hotspot for contamination in terms of eutrophication and the presence of organic matter. Microplastics are quite intense, based on data from studies of marine litter and microplastics in the Baltic Sea. The number of microplastics in the Baltic Sea water is 0.07-3300 particles/m3, and in sediments 0-10179 particles/kg. These amounts prove that the waters and sediments of the Baltic Sea are heavily contaminated with microplastics. This article provides a comprehensive review of the microplastic origins and transport routes to the Baltic Sea. The data is presented as the concentration of microplastics in surface waters, sediments, and sea sand. The extraction methods used and the microplastics techniques are also presented. The possibilities and limitations of water and sediment sampling methods for microplastics determination were summarised, taking into account sampling tools, volume and depth. Extraction, separation, filtration, and visual sorting are outlined as sample preparation techniques for microplastic analysis. This review also focuses on the problems of obtaining data relevant to the development of the mathematical models necessary to monitor trends in the spread of microplastics in the Baltic Sea. Finally, several important laws and policies, which are in place in the Baltic States to control and manage microplastic pollution in the region, are highlighted.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Izabela Narloch
- Department of Food Analysis and Environmental Protection, Faculty of Chemical Technology and Engineering, Bydgoszcz University of Science and Technology, 3 Seminaryjna Street, 85-236, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| | - Alicja Gackowska
- Department of Food Analysis and Environmental Protection, Faculty of Chemical Technology and Engineering, Bydgoszcz University of Science and Technology, 3 Seminaryjna Street, 85-236, Bydgoszcz, Poland.
| | - Grażyna Wejnerowska
- Department of Food Analysis and Environmental Protection, Faculty of Chemical Technology and Engineering, Bydgoszcz University of Science and Technology, 3 Seminaryjna Street, 85-236, Bydgoszcz, Poland
| |
Collapse
|
21
|
Abomohra A, Hanelt D. Recent Advances in Micro-/Nanoplastic (MNPs) Removal by Microalgae and Possible Integrated Routes of Energy Recovery. Microorganisms 2022; 10:microorganisms10122400. [PMID: 36557653 PMCID: PMC9788109 DOI: 10.3390/microorganisms10122400] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2022] [Revised: 11/29/2022] [Accepted: 11/30/2022] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
Reliance on plastic has resulted in the widespread occurrence of micro-/nanoplastics (MNPs) in aquatic ecosystems, threatening the food web and whole ecosystem functions. There is a tight interaction between MNPs and microalgae, as dominant living organisms and fundamental constituents at the base of the aquatic food web. Therefore, it is crucial to better understand the mechanisms underlying the interactions between plastic particles and microalgae, as well as the role of microalgae in removing MNPs from aquatic ecosystems. In addition, finding a suitable route for further utilization of MNP-contaminated algal biomass is of great importance. The present review article provides an interdisciplinary approach to elucidate microalgae-MNP interactions and subsequent impacts on microalgal physiology. The degradation of plastic in the environment and differences between micro- and nanoplastics are discussed. The possible toxic effects of MNPs on microalgal growth, photosynthetic activity, and morphology, due to physical or chemical interactions, are evaluated. In addition, the potential role of MNPs in microalgae cultivation and/or harvesting, together with further safe routes for biomass utilization in biofuel production, are suggested. Overall, the current article represents a state-of-the-art overview of MNP generation and the consequences of their accumulation in the environment, providing new insights into microalgae integrated routes of plastic removal and bioenergy production.
Collapse
|
22
|
Lyu C, Paterson HL, Fogarty J. The spatiotemporal dynamics, distribution, and characteristics of beached plastics along the remote south coast of Western Australia. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 184:114126. [PMID: 36162291 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.114126] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/01/2022] [Revised: 09/06/2022] [Accepted: 09/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Understanding the accumulation mechanism for beached plastics is important for marine debris research. Similar to the global accumulation pattern for beached plastics, we find that along the remote south coast of Western Australia (SCWA) white, hard, microplastics dominate the microplastic pollution accumulating on beaches. We estimate that along the SCWA, plastics are present at a density of 2.01 items·m-2, but also find that the density of plastic pollution is higher at the eastern end of bays. Significantly fewer plastics were found after easterly winds (austral summer-prevailing winds), and regional physical ocean process, including the Leeuwin Current, and the Ekman transport effect may be relevant to the rate of plastic accumulation on SCWA beaches.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Chao Lyu
- The University of Western Australia, 35 Stirling Highway, Perth, WA 6009, Australia.
| | - Harriet Louise Paterson
- The University of Western Australia, Centre of Excellence in Natural Resource Management, PO Box 5771, Albany, WA 6332, Australia; Ocean Institute, Western Australia, Australia.
| | - James Fogarty
- The University of Western Australia, School of Agriculture and Environment, 35 Stirling Highway, Perth, WA 6009, Australia.
| |
Collapse
|
23
|
Fajković H, Cukrov N, Frančišković-Bilinski S, Huljek L, Kostanjšek I, Kwokal Ž, Matekalo R, Pikelj K, Cuculić V. Correlation of metals and degraded marine (micro)plastic litter in geologically similar coastal areas with different anthropogenic characteristics. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 183:114041. [PMID: 35999083 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.114041] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/03/2022] [Revised: 07/30/2022] [Accepted: 08/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
The association and statistical correlation of anthropogenically important trace metals (TM) Cd, Cu, Pb, Zn and degraded marine microplastic (MP) extracted from the bulk debris samples at two locations from two marine systems, estuarine and coastal, in the Croatian Adriatic coastal area were assessed. The abundance of MP particles at both sites were primarily defined by local wave climate, with the open coastal site containing 9-fold more microplastic particles (>4 mm) as compared to the semi-closed estuarine, or twice as much considering bulk plastics. Generally, the higher abundance of adsorbed metal on MP were observed in the more anthropogenically influenced estuary than in the open coastal site and followed the order: polystyrene > polypropylene > low density polyethylene. The amounts of adsorbed zinc were the highest on all types of plastics at both sites, while the affinity of polystyrene for metals followed: Zn > Pb ≈ Cu > Cd.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hana Fajković
- University of Zagreb, Faculty of Science, Department of Geology, Horvatovac 102a, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Neven Cukrov
- Ruđer Bošković Institute, Division for Marine and Environmental Research, Bijenička cesta 54, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | | | - Laura Huljek
- University of Zagreb, Faculty of Science, Department of Geology, Horvatovac 102a, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Iva Kostanjšek
- University of Zagreb, Faculty of Science, Department of Geology, Horvatovac 102a, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Željko Kwokal
- Ruđer Bošković Institute, Division for Marine and Environmental Research, Bijenička cesta 54, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Renata Matekalo
- University of Zagreb, Faculty of Science, Department of Geology, Horvatovac 102a, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Kristina Pikelj
- University of Zagreb, Faculty of Science, Department of Geology, Horvatovac 102a, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia
| | - Vlado Cuculić
- Ruđer Bošković Institute, Division for Marine and Environmental Research, Bijenička cesta 54, 10000 Zagreb, Croatia.
| |
Collapse
|
24
|
Grini H, Metallaoui S, González-Fernández D, Bensouilah M. First evidence of plastic pollution in beach sediments of the Skikda coast (northeast of Algeria). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 181:113831. [PMID: 35714545 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113831] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2021] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
This study is the first attempt to provide original data on plastics debris occurrence in beach sediments of the Gulf of Skikda in Algeria (southwestern Mediterranean). Sediment samples from seven beaches were collected to extract, quantify and characterize mesoplastics and microplastics. Particles were classified by size into mesoplastics (5-25 mm) and large microplastics (1-5 mm). Overall, microplastics were the most abundant size fraction in terms of number of items. The average mass of mesoplastics was twice that of microplastics, revealing a notable reservoir of plastics that is scarcely ever reported in the literature. The predominant types were fragments and pellets, white/transparent in color. The average concentrations of total plastic were 1067.19 ± 625.62 items/m2, 106.98 ± 62.39 items/kg, and 50.65 ± 9.82 g/m2, showing variability between beaches and within sampling sites. Thus, the Skikda coast has high levels of pollution compared to other areas of the Mediterranean Sea.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Halima Grini
- Department of Natural and Life Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, University of 20 août 1955-Skikda, Skikda, Algeria; Laboratory of Physico-Chemistry Research on Surfaces and Interfaces, University of 20 août 1955-Skikda, Skikda, Algeria.
| | - Sophia Metallaoui
- Department of Natural and Life Sciences, Faculty of Sciences, University of 20 août 1955-Skikda, Skikda, Algeria; Research Laboratory on Interactions of Biodiversity, Ecosystems and Biotechnology, University of 20 août 1955-Skikda, Skikda, Algeria
| | - Daniel González-Fernández
- Department of Biology, University Institute of Marine Research INMAR, University of Cádiz and European University of the Seas, Puerto Real, Spain
| | - Mourad Bensouilah
- Eco-Biology Laboratory for Marine Environments and Costal Areas, Marine Sciences Department, University of Badji Mokhtar-Annaba, Annaba, Algeria
| |
Collapse
|
25
|
Cesarini G, Secco S, Battisti C, Questino B, Marcello L, Scalici M. Temporal changes of plastic litter and associated encrusting biota: Evidence from Central Italy (Mediterranean Sea). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 181:113890. [PMID: 35785720 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/15/2022] [Revised: 06/13/2022] [Accepted: 06/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the temporal changes from spring to summer of the stranded litter and the composition of plastic encrusting biota along an Italian beach. Our findings highlight a higher quantity of litter (average value 1510.67 ± 581.27 items) in spring, particularly plastic material with a composition driven by currents, winds and waves transported from rivers to sea. During summer the source was caused by anti-social behaviours (e.g. cigarettes). Regarding the plastic size, the most is macroplastic (85.96 %), followed by mesoplastic (13.74 %) and megaplastic (0.30 %) overall, and no seasonal trend was observed. Concerning the encrusting biota, Mollusca was the most frequent phylum found on plastic beach litter, whereas Porifera the most abundant overall. During spring a greater abundance of individuals was recorded compared to summer. The trend of taxa richness was decreasing from spring to summer. Arthropoda, Porifera and Mollusca phyla were significantly more abundant in spring, while Algae in summer.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Cesarini
- Department of Sciences, University of Roma Tre, viale G. Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Secco
- Department of Sciences, University of Roma Tre, viale G. Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy.
| | - Corrado Battisti
- Torre Flavia LTER (Long Term Ecological Research) Station, Protected Areas - Regional Park Service, Citta ` Metropolitana di Roma Capitale, viale G. Ribotta, 41, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Beatrice Questino
- Department of Sciences, University of Roma Tre, viale G. Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Leonardo Marcello
- Department of Sciences, University of Roma Tre, viale G. Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Scalici
- Department of Sciences, University of Roma Tre, viale G. Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
26
|
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
|
27
|
Chubarenko B, Kileso A, Esiukova E, Pinchuk V, Simon FG. Dataset on geosynthetic material debris contamination of the South-East Baltic shore. Data Brief 2022; 40:107778. [PMID: 35028350 PMCID: PMC8741436 DOI: 10.1016/j.dib.2021.107778] [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: 10/30/2021] [Revised: 12/11/2021] [Accepted: 12/29/2021] [Indexed: 11/25/2022] Open
Abstract
The database gives information on the contamination of the shore of the South-Eastern Baltic with the debris of geosynthetic materials for the period 2018–2020. This new type of coastal pollution enters the natural environment due to the destruction of coastal protection structures and construction activities. The database contains sections: (1) a list of types of geosynthetic material residues, their photographic images and photographs illustrating examples of finds in natural conditions [1 List_geosynthetic_debris_SEB], (2) monitoring data on the contamination of the beach strip with the debris of geotextiles, braids from gabions, geocontainers (big bags), geocells and geogrids for the beaches of the South-Eastern Baltic for the period 2018–2020 [2 Monitoring_geosynthetic_debris_SEB]; (3) statistical distributions of the found geosynthetic debris by size [3 Scales_geosynthetic_debris_SEB] and (4) results of test surveys on the shores of Lithuania and Poland adjacent to Kaliningrad Oblast. All data refer to the beaches of the Kaliningrad Oblast (Russia), including the Russian parts of the Vistula and Curonian Spits, but also contains information on a one-time assessment of the pollution of the beaches of the adjacent territories: the Polish shore from the Poland-Russia border on the Vistula Spit to the mouth of the Vistula River, the Lithuanian shore from the border Lithuania-Russia on the Curonian Spit to the border of Latvia-Lithuania. Materials were collected during field surveys within the ERANET-RUS_Plus joint project EI-GEO, ID 212 (RFBR 18-55-76002 ERA_a, BMBF 01DJ18005).
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Boris Chubarenko
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Alexander Kileso
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 117997, Russia.,Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, Kaliningrad 236041, Russia
| | - Elena Esiukova
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - Vasiliy Pinchuk
- Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, Kaliningrad 236041, Russia
| | - Franz-Georg Simon
- BAM Federal Institute for Materials Research and Testing, Berlin 12200, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
28
|
Esiukova E, Lobchuk O, Haseler M, Chubarenko I. Microplastic contamination of sandy beaches of national parks, protected and recreational areas in southern parts of the Baltic Sea. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 173:113002. [PMID: 34598092 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.113002] [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: 07/19/2021] [Revised: 09/18/2021] [Accepted: 09/21/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The distribution of small (0.5-2 mm, S-MPs) and large (2-5 mm, L-MPs) microplastics and mesoplastic particles in 51 samples of surface beach sands at 7 locations along the southern shore of the Baltic Sea was investigated. MPs particles (3267 in total) were found at all the sites and in all the beach zones. The bulk mean MPs (0.5-5 mm) contamination is 68 ± 117 (median 33) items/kg DW (n = 51). The results were confirmed by μ-Raman spectroscopy analysis. National park areas did not differ substantially from other beaches. Expanded polystyrene fragments accounted for about 38% of the total collected particles. Fibres were the predominant type of MPs (55%). The highest contamination was found within the current wrack line (60.1 ± 36.6 items/kg DW of S-MPs). A consistent picture for S-MPs was observed at the beach face, where the mean values in different locations varied between 21.0 and 58.1 items/kg DW, with a bulk mean of 30.4 ± 13.7 items/kg DW.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E Esiukova
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 36, Nahimovskiy prospect, Moscow 117997, Russia.
| | - O Lobchuk
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 36, Nahimovskiy prospect, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - M Haseler
- Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde, Seestrasse 15, D-18119 Rostock, Germany
| | - I Chubarenko
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 36, Nahimovskiy prospect, Moscow 117997, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
29
|
Robbe E, Woelfel J, Balčiūnas A, Schernewski G. An Impact Assessment of Beach Wrack and Litter on Beach Ecosystem Services to Support Coastal Management at the Baltic Sea. ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2021; 68:835-859. [PMID: 34505177 PMCID: PMC8578072 DOI: 10.1007/s00267-021-01533-3] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/09/2021] [Accepted: 08/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
As accumulation zones, sandy beaches are temporal sinks for beach wrack and litter, both often seen as nuisances to tourists. Consequently, there is a need for beach management and an enhanced political interest to evaluate their ecosystem services. We applied a new online multidisciplinary assessment approach differentiating between the provision, potential, and flow at German and Lithuanian beaches (Southern Baltic Sea). We selected a set of services and assessed four beach scenarios developed accordingly to common management measures (different beach wrack and litter accumulations). We conducted comparative assessments involving 39 external experts using spread-sheets and workshops, an online survey as well as a combined data-based approach. Results indicated the relative importance of cultural (52.2%), regulating and maintenance (37.4%), and provisioning services (10.4%). Assessed impact scores showed that the removal of beach wrack is not favorable with regard to the overall ecosystem service provision. Contrarily, the removal of litter can increase the service flow significantly. When removing beach wrack, synergies between services should be used, i.e., use of biomass as material or further processing. However, trade-offs prevail between cultural services and the overall provision of beach ecosystem services (i.e., coastal protection and biodiversity). We recommend developing new and innovative beach cleaning techniques and procedures, i.e., different spatio-temporal patterns, e.g., mechanical vs. manually, daily vs. on-demand, whole beach width vs. patches. Our fast and easy-to-apply assessment approach can support decision-making processes within sustainable coastal management allowing us to show and compare the impacts of measures from a holistic ecosystem services perspective.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Esther Robbe
- Coastal and Marine Management Group, Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde, Rostock, Germany.
- Marine Research Institute, Klaipeda University, Klaipeda, Lithuania.
| | - Jana Woelfel
- Institute of Biological Sciences, Aquatic Ecology, University of Rostock, Rostock, Germany
| | - Arūnas Balčiūnas
- Marine Research Institute, Klaipeda University, Klaipeda, Lithuania
| | - Gerald Schernewski
- Coastal and Marine Management Group, Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde, Rostock, Germany
- Marine Research Institute, Klaipeda University, Klaipeda, Lithuania
| |
Collapse
|
30
|
Dou PC, Mai L, Bao LJ, Zeng EY. Microplastics on beaches and mangrove sediments along the coast of South China. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 172:112806. [PMID: 34388449 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112806] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/17/2021] [Revised: 07/29/2021] [Accepted: 07/31/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Accumulation of microplastics (MPs) data on a global scale is key to supporting plastic waste management for protecting ecosystems. To respond this call, a sampling campaign was conducted in the summer and winter seasons of 2018 to collect beach and mangrove sediment samples from 32 sites along the coastline of South China. The MPs concentrations in the intertidal zone along the coast of South China were comparable to those in other regions around the world. Polystyrene foams and fibers were the most abundant debris in the 0.2-5 mm and 0.02-2 mm MPs, respectively. Principal component and correlation analyses indicated that the abundances of MPs were related to wind direction, wastewater discharge amount, and tourist and fishing activities. Risk assessments suggested that potential ecological risks induced by MPs on beaches and mangrove forest along the coast of South China should not be overlooked.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Peng-Cheng Dou
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Center for Environmental Microplastics Studies, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
| | - Lei Mai
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Center for Environmental Microplastics Studies, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
| | - Lian-Jun Bao
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Center for Environmental Microplastics Studies, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China.
| | - Eddy Y Zeng
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Environmental Pollution and Health, Center for Environmental Microplastics Studies, School of Environment, Jinan University, Guangzhou 511443, China
| |
Collapse
|
31
|
Li X, Liang R, Li Y, Zhang Y, Wang Y, Li K. Microplastics in inland freshwater environments with different regional functions: A case study on the Chengdu Plain. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 789:147938. [PMID: 34058585 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.147938] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/03/2021] [Revised: 04/25/2021] [Accepted: 05/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
As an emerging pollutant, microplastic has been demonstrated to widely cover water and sediments in marine and freshwater environments globally. Due to the differences in the regional functions of cities, the abundance and characteristics of microplastic pollution in rivers are different. Taking the Minjiang River as the research object, which flows through the Chengdu Plain, the abundance, composition, shape, and size of microplastics in the water and sediments of the Minjiang River were investigated. The results showed that serious microplastic pollution occurred in the Chengdu section of the Minjiang River, with an abundance ranging from 6.11-44.08 n/L in the water and from 573.84-2878.97 n/kg in the sediments. By using the "regional function index (Q)", the relationships between the characteristics of microplastic pollution and regional functions were analyzed. Areas with a high Q proved to be more polluted by microplastics. Densely populated areas with large construction areas and high human activity intensity tended to generate microplastics with larger sizes and a more fiber-like shapes. Rayon (RA) and nylon (PA) were identified as typical urban microplastics, while polypropylene (PP) and polyethylene (PE) were identified as typical agricultural microplastics. This study elucidated the microplastic pollution in the Chengdu section of the Minjiang River, a tributary in the upper reaches of the Yangtze River. It also provided a new direction for the study of microplastic pollution characteristics of freshwater environments with different regional functions and microplastic pollution source control.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Xintong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulics and Mountain River Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Ruifeng Liang
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulics and Mountain River Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China.
| | - Yong Li
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulics and Mountain River Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Yaodan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulics and Mountain River Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China; PowerChina Chengdu Engineering Corporation Limited, Chengdu 611130, China
| | - Yuanming Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulics and Mountain River Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Kefeng Li
- State Key Laboratory of Hydraulics and Mountain River Engineering, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| |
Collapse
|
32
|
Esiukova EE, Lobchuk OI, Volodina AA, Chubarenko IP. Marine macrophytes retain microplastics. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 171:112738. [PMID: 34343752 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/14/2021] [Revised: 07/14/2021] [Accepted: 07/15/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs, 0.2-5 mm) contamination of water outside/inside thickets of macrophytes in the Baltic Sea was studied. The amount of MPs particles in water samples taken within thickets is on average 1.7 times higher than in water samples taken in the areas outside thickets. Fibres are the predominant type of MPs (92.5%). For algae growing on boulders, the abundance of MPs is 1245 ± 1020 items/m2. Per kilogram of dry algae mass the MPs abundance is 376 ± 404 items/kgDW for all shapes of MPs particles. This value is one order of magnitude higher than in sands of the swash zone in the given area. It is shown that filamentous algae retain more fibres than cartilaginous ones: 1.9-8.5 versus 1-1.1 items/l on average. Obviously, areas covered by sea grasses are much more contaminated than water and sediments in the given region.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- E E Esiukova
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 36, Nahimovskiy prospekt, Moscow 117997, Russia.
| | - O I Lobchuk
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 36, Nahimovskiy prospekt, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - A A Volodina
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 36, Nahimovskiy prospekt, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - I P Chubarenko
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 36, Nahimovskiy prospekt, Moscow 117997, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
33
|
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
|
34
|
Sánchez-Hernández LJ, Ramírez-Romero P, Rodríguez-González F, Ramos-Sánchez VH, Márquez Montes RA, Romero-Paredes Rubio H, Sujitha SB, Jonathan MP. Seasonal evidences of microplastics in environmental matrices of a tourist dominated urban estuary in Gulf of Mexico, Mexico. CHEMOSPHERE 2021; 277:130261. [PMID: 34384177 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2021.130261] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/19/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The study evaluated the spatial and seasonal variations of microplastic abundances in water, sediments, and commercial fishes of a semi-urban tourist impacted estuary in the Gulf of Mexico, Mexico. The prevalence of microplastics (MPs) elucidated diffuse sources namely long-range transport, domestic, agricultural, fishing, industrial and recreational activities and the local climatic conditions. Seasonally, the mean abundances of MPs in both water and sediments were high during Nortes (strong winds) followed by the dry and rainy seasons. Overall, black and blue colored MPs dominated the region and all the recovered plastics were fibers. The commercial fishes (n = 187) contained 881 MPs in their gastrointestinal tracts, suggesting that the food web of the estuary is highly prone to microplastic contamination. SEM images of extracted plastic fibers presented surface morphologies that are impacted by physical strains. Further, the elemental characterization of fibers using EDX displayed significant peaks of Al, As, Cl, Cr, Cu, Pb, and Zn that were used as additives during the production of plastics. The main types of polymers included low-density polyethylene, polyester, polypropylene, polycarbonate, rayon, polyvinyl chloride, polyacrylonitrile, polyamide, nylon and polyethylene terephthalate. MP abundances demonstrated in this study elucidate that estuaries are a major conduit for land-derived plastics to the ocean and the results will aid in implementing remedial/clean up actions of the estuary for better conservation of the ecosystem.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lirio Jazmín Sánchez-Hernández
- Posgrado en Energía y Medio Ambiente, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, Av. San Rafael Atlixo #186, Col. Vicentina, Iztapalapa, Ciudad de Mexico (CDMX), Mexico
| | - Patricia Ramírez-Romero
- Dept. de Hidrobiología, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, Av. San Rafael Atlixco #186, Col. Vicentina, Iztapalapa, C.P. 09340, Ciudad de Mexico (CDMX), México.
| | - 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, C.P. 62731, Morelos, Mexico
| | - Víctor H Ramos-Sánchez
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Chihuahua, Nuevo Campus Universitario, Circuito Universitario, C.P. 31125, Chihuahua, Mexico
| | - Raúl Antonio Márquez Montes
- Facultad de Ciencias Químicas, Universidad Autónoma de Chihuahua, Nuevo Campus Universitario, Circuito Universitario, C.P. 31125, Chihuahua, Mexico
| | - Hernando Romero-Paredes Rubio
- Área de Ingeniería en Recursos Energéticos, Universidad Autónoma Metropolitana-Iztapalapa, Av. San Rafael Atlixco # 186, Col. Vicentina, Iztapalapa, C.P. 09340, Ciudad de Mexico (CDMX), Mexico
| | - S B Sujitha
- Centro Mexicano para La Producción Más Limpia (CMP+L), Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), Av. Acueducto S/n, Col. Barrio La Laguna Ticomán, Delg. Gustavo A. Madero, C.P. 07340, Ciudad de Mexico (CDMX), Mexico; Escuela Superior de Ingeniería y Arquitectura (ESIA), Unidad Ticoman, Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), Calz. Ticomán 600, Delg. Gustavo A. Madero, C.P. 07340, Ciudad de Mexico (CDMX), 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 Mexico (CDMX), Mexico.
| |
Collapse
|
35
|
Hildebrandt L, Zimmermann T, Primpke S, Fischer D, Gerdts G, Pröfrock D. Comparison and uncertainty evaluation of two centrifugal separators for microplastic sampling. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2021; 414:125482. [PMID: 34030400 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2021.125482] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/17/2020] [Revised: 02/06/2021] [Accepted: 02/19/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
For commonly applied microplastic sampling approaches based on filtration, high throughput and no size-discrimination are conflicting goals. Therefore, we propose two efficient centrifugal separators for small microplastic sampling, namely the utilization of a hydrocyclone as well as a continuous flow centrifuge. Thorough method optimization was followed by application in an extensive sampling study to investigate the separators' retention behavior for particulate plastics from estuarine waters. Microplastic concentrations ranged from 193 to 2072 particles m-3. The most dominant identified polymer types were polypropylene, acrylates, polyvinyl chloride and polyethylene. More than 95% of particles were < 100 µm. For the first time in microplastic research, an expanded uncertainty was calculated according to the "Guide to the expression of Uncertainty in Measurement" (JCGM 100:2008). Bottom-up uncertainty evaluation revealed the different sampling methods (~ 44%), sample replicates (~ 26%) and the different detection techniques (~ 16%) as the major sources of uncertainty. Depending on the number of particles detected in the samples, the relative expanded uncertainty (Urel (k = 2)) ranged from 24% up to > 200% underpinning tremendous importance of sound uncertainty evaluation. Our results indicate that scientist should rethink many "observed patterns" in the literature due to being insignificant and herewith not real.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lars Hildebrandt
- Department for Marine Bioanalytical Chemistry, Helmholtz-Zentrum Geesthacht, Centre for Materials and Coastal Research, Geesthacht, Germany; Department of Chemistry, Inorganic and Applied Chemistry, Universität Hamburg, Hamburg, Germany.
| | - Tristan Zimmermann
- Department for Marine Bioanalytical Chemistry, Helmholtz-Zentrum Geesthacht, Centre for Materials and Coastal Research, Geesthacht, Germany
| | - Sebastian Primpke
- Department of Microbial Ecology, Biologische Anstalt Helgoland, Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Helgoland, Germany
| | - Dieter Fischer
- Department Analytics - Group Microplastics, Leibniz Institute of Polymer Research Dresden, Dresden, Germany
| | - Gunnar Gerdts
- Department of Microbial Ecology, Biologische Anstalt Helgoland, Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Helgoland, Germany
| | - Daniel Pröfrock
- Department for Marine Bioanalytical Chemistry, Helmholtz-Zentrum Geesthacht, Centre for Materials and Coastal Research, Geesthacht, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
36
|
Current Progress on Marine Microplastics Pollution Research: A Review on Pollution Occurrence, Detection, and Environmental Effects. WATER 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/w13121713] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2022]
Abstract
Recently, microplastics pollution has attracted much attention in the environmental field, as researchers have found traces of microplastics in both marine and terrestrial ecological environments. Here, we reviewed and discussed the current progress on microplastics pollution in the marine environment from three main aspects including their identification and qualification methods, source and distribution, and fate and toxicity in a marine ecosystem. Microplastics in the marine environment originate from a variety of sources and distribute broadly all around the world, but their quantitative information is still lacking. Up to now, there have been no adequate and standard methods to identify and quantify the various types of microplastics, which need to be developed and unified. The fate of microplastics in the environment is particularly important as they may be transferred or accumulated in the biological chain. Meanwhile, microplastics may have a high adsorption capacity to pollutants, which is the basic research to further study their fate and joint toxicity in the environment. Therefore, all the findings are expected to fill the knowledge gaps in microplastics pollution and promote the development of relative regulations.
Collapse
|
37
|
Chouchene K, Prata JC, da Costa J, Duarte AC, Rocha-Santos T, Ksibi M. Microplastics on Barra beach sediments in Aveiro, Portugal. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 167:112264. [PMID: 33780756 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112264] [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: 10/13/2020] [Revised: 03/09/2021] [Accepted: 03/09/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MPs) pollution has been recognized as a serious threat to marine environment with the growing use of plastics. There is no sufficient data on the extent and characteristics of MPs pollution in the beach sediments and sand in the Atlantic Ocean. The coastal area is one of the main tourist zones in Aveiro in Portugal, thus, impacted by both tourism and maritime traffic, which are major sources of MPs. Considering this issue, 33 sediment samples were collected from the Praia da Barra beach in Aveiro. This pilot study showed that large quantities of MPs are accumulated on this beach with a median concentration of 100 MP kg-1 (15-320 MP kg-1), that is dominated by polyethylene (30%), polypropylene (27%), polystyrene (18%), nylon (12%), and polyester (6%). Size <1 mm constituted 99.5% of particles, mostly of transparent or black colors, with highest concentrations closest to the water line.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Khawla Chouchene
- Université de Sfax, Laboratoire de Génie de l'Environnement et Ecotechnologie, GEET-ENIS, Route de Soukra km 4, Po. Box 1173, Sfax 3038, Tunisia.
| | - Joana C Prata
- CESAM and Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Portugal
| | - João da Costa
- CESAM and Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Portugal
| | - Armando C Duarte
- CESAM and Department of Chemistry, University of Aveiro, Portugal
| | | | - Mohamed Ksibi
- Université de Sfax, Laboratoire de Génie de l'Environnement et Ecotechnologie, GEET-ENIS, Route de Soukra km 4, Po. Box 1173, Sfax 3038, Tunisia
| |
Collapse
|
38
|
Schröder K, Kossel E, Lenz M. Microplastic abundance in beach sediments of the Kiel Fjord, Western Baltic Sea. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:26515-26528. [PMID: 33484462 PMCID: PMC8159790 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-12220-x] [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: 05/27/2020] [Accepted: 12/22/2020] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
We assessed the abundance of microplastics (0.2-5 mm) in drift line sediments from three sites in Kiel Fjord, Western Baltic Sea. The first site is intensively used by beach visitors, the second is in close proximity to a sewage plant and the third is polluted with large-sized plastic litter. Samples were split into three grain size classes (0.2-0.5, 0.5-1, 1-5 mm), washed with calcium chloride solution, and filtered at 0.2 mm. Filters were then visually inspected, and a total of 180 fragments was classified as microplastics, of which 39% were analyzed using Raman spectroscopy. At the site that is close to a sewage plant as well as at the site with intense beach use, 1.8 and 4.5 particles (fibers plus fragments) per kg of dry sediment were found, respectively, while particle abundances reached 30.2 per kg of dry sediment at the site with high litter loads. Our data suggest that the fragmentation of large plastic debris at site seems to be a relevant source for microplastics in Western Baltic Sea beach sediments.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kevin Schröder
- Faculty of Agricultural and Nutritional Sciences, University of Kiel, Olshausenstr. 40, 24098, Kiel, Germany
| | - Elke Kossel
- Marine Biogeochemistry, GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel, Wischhofstr. 1 - 3, 24148, Kiel, Germany
| | - Mark Lenz
- Marine Ecology, GEOMAR Helmholtz Centre for Ocean Research Kiel, Düsternbrooker Weg 20, 24105, Kiel, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
39
|
Bagaev A, Esiukova E, Litvinyuk D, Chubarenko I, Veerasingam S, Venkatachalapathy R, Verzhevskaya L. Investigations of plastic contamination of seawater, marine and coastal sediments in the Russian seas: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:10.1007/s11356-021-14183-z. [PMID: 33961191 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-021-14183-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/08/2020] [Accepted: 04/26/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Twelve seas with an integral coastline length of about 38,000 km wash upon the Russian coasts. They belong to the basins of the Atlantic, the Arctic, and the Pacific Oceans and stretch over temperate, subpolar, and polar climate zones. This review of 32 studies published between 2015 and August 2020 analyses the available peer-reviewed scientific publications related to the topic of plastic contamination. At present, plastic contamination of the marine environments is confirmed by field investigations in 7 out of 12 Russian seas. Pollution levels vary widely: from 0.6 to 336,000 items/m3 for microplastics in water and from 1.3 to 10,179 items/kg (DW)-in sediments, while median macroplastics abundance is around 1.0 item/m2 at the coast. One monitoring survey of the Barents Sea reported mean macroplastics concentration in the upper 60 m as 0.011 mg/m3 and 2.9 kg/km2 at the sea floor. The identification of the polymer types with spectroscopy techniques is performed only in 9 studies (28%); most researchers use visual identification which makes the results difficult to compare. Most projects aimed at the plastic contamination research use their own collection and extraction methods that poorly agree with other studies. Since the pollution levels in most of the areas are relatively low, sampling is inhomogeneous in space and time. The most extensively studied areas are the beaches of the Baltic Sea, while the least examined is the Arctic region. Our study highlights the need for a discussion on harmonizing sampling methodology and identification techniques among different studies.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrei Bagaev
- Marine Hydrophysical Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, Sevastopol, 299011, Russia.
| | - Elena Esiukova
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 117997, Russia
| | - Daria Litvinyuk
- A.O. Kovalevsky Institute of Biology of the Southern Seas of RAS, Sevastopol, 299011, Russia
| | - Irina Chubarenko
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, Moscow, 117997, Russia
| | | | | | - Liudmila Verzhevskaya
- Marine Hydrophysical Institute, Russian Academy of Sciences, Sevastopol, 299011, Russia
| |
Collapse
|
40
|
Microplastics in the Aquatic Environment: Occurrence, Persistence, Analysis, and Human Exposure. WATER 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/w13070973] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
Microplastics (MP) have recently been considered as emerging contaminants in the water environment. In the last number of years, the number of studies on MP has grown quickly due to the increasing consciousness of the potential risks for human health related to MP exposure. The present review article discusses scientific literature regarding MP occurrence and accumulation on the aquatic compartment (river, lake, wastewater, seafood), the analytical methods used to assess their concentration, their fate and transport to humans, and delineates the urgent areas for future research. To better analogize literature data regarding MP occurrence in the aquatic compartment we subdivided papers based on sampling, analytical methods, and concentration units with the aim to help the reader identify the similarities and differences of the considered research papers, thus making the comparison of literature data easier and the individuation of the most relevant articles for the reader’s interests faster. Furthermore, we argued about several ways for MP transport to humans, highlighting some gaps in analytical methods based on the reviewed publications. We suggest improving studies on developing standardized protocols to collect, process, and analyze samples.
Collapse
|
41
|
Pérez-Alvelo KM, Llegus EM, Forestier-Babilonia JM, Elías-Arroyo CV, Pagán-Malavé KN, Bird-Rivera GJ, Rodríguez-Sierra CJ. Microplastic pollution on sandy beaches of Puerto Rico. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 164:112010. [PMID: 33485022 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112010] [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: 09/15/2020] [Revised: 12/23/2020] [Accepted: 12/28/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Caribbean islands, including Puerto Rico, are biodiversity hotspots threatened by microplastics (<5 mm). Little is known about the extent of microplastic pollution in coastal sandy beaches of Puerto Rico. Sand from six northern beaches was collected in the high tide line to determine microplastic abundance (0.3-4.75 mm). Península La Esperanza, the most polluted beach, exhibited higher average abundance (17 items/kg dw) and diversity. High urbanization, industrial/port activities, and riverine input are likely sources of plastic debris on this beach. The other beaches showed lower and similar average abundance (3 to 7 items/kg dw) despite having distinct potential point and non-point sources. Overall, fibers (40%), fragments (28%) and foams (27%) predominated (n = 102 particles). Results showed comparable levels to other world beaches, some classified as highly contaminated, but only when transforming units to items/m2. Preliminary ATR-FTIR analysis identified mainly polyethylene. It is imperative to have plastics source reduction through waste management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Kiani M Pérez-Alvelo
- College of Natural Sciences, Rio Piedras Campus, University of Puerto Rico, San Juan 00925, Puerto Rico
| | - Eduardo M Llegus
- Department of Environmental Health, Graduate School of Public Health, Medical Sciences Campus, University of Puerto Rico, PO Box 365067, San Juan 00936-5067, Puerto Rico
| | - Janet M Forestier-Babilonia
- Department of Environmental Health, Graduate School of Public Health, Medical Sciences Campus, University of Puerto Rico, PO Box 365067, San Juan 00936-5067, Puerto Rico
| | - Camila V Elías-Arroyo
- Department of Environmental Health, Graduate School of Public Health, Medical Sciences Campus, University of Puerto Rico, PO Box 365067, San Juan 00936-5067, Puerto Rico
| | - Keisharie N Pagán-Malavé
- Department of Environmental Health, Graduate School of Public Health, Medical Sciences Campus, University of Puerto Rico, PO Box 365067, San Juan 00936-5067, Puerto Rico
| | - Guillermo J Bird-Rivera
- Department of Environmental Health, Graduate School of Public Health, Medical Sciences Campus, University of Puerto Rico, PO Box 365067, San Juan 00936-5067, Puerto Rico
| | - Carlos J Rodríguez-Sierra
- Department of Environmental Health, Graduate School of Public Health, Medical Sciences Campus, University of Puerto Rico, PO Box 365067, San Juan 00936-5067, Puerto Rico.
| |
Collapse
|
42
|
Lorenz C, Schafberg M, Roscher L, Meyer MS, Primpke S, Kraus UR, Gerdts G. Paraffin and other petroleum waxes in the southern North Sea. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 162:111807. [PMID: 33162055 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.111807] [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: 07/02/2020] [Revised: 10/21/2020] [Accepted: 10/21/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Petroleum waxes (PWs) are recognized as ubiquitously emerging marine pollutants. However, knowledge on their occurrence, particularly as persistent floaters of small size (<5 mm) in marine surface water, is scarce. For this study, 24 samples were collected in the North Sea by net-sampling (100 μm-mesh). Particles of wax-like appearance were detected at 14 stations. Similar appearing PWs from six stations with highest abundances were pooled per station and analyzed by ATR-FTIR (Attenuated total reflectance Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy) and gas chromatography. Samples contained paraffin particles, being partly accompanied by substances like fatty acids and fatty alcohols. Using both analytical techniques provided a reliable detection of PWs and more details on their chemical composition. Furthermore, exemplarily the presence of PWs of 20-500 μm size was proven by μFTIR imaging. This study gives valuable insights into PW pollution in the North Sea, emphasizing the need for harmonized detection methods, ideally accompanying microplastics monitoring.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Claudia Lorenz
- Shelf Seas Systems Ecology, Biologische Anstalt Helgoland, Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Kurpromenade 201, 27498 Helgoland, Germany; Department of The Built Environment, Aalborg University, Thomas Manns Vej 23, 9220 Aalborg Øst, Denmark.
| | - Michaela Schafberg
- Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency (BSH), Bernhard-Nocht-Str. 78, 20359 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Lisa Roscher
- Shelf Seas Systems Ecology, Biologische Anstalt Helgoland, Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Kurpromenade 201, 27498 Helgoland, Germany
| | - Melanie S Meyer
- Shelf Seas Systems Ecology, Biologische Anstalt Helgoland, Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Kurpromenade 201, 27498 Helgoland, Germany
| | - Sebastian Primpke
- Shelf Seas Systems Ecology, Biologische Anstalt Helgoland, Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Kurpromenade 201, 27498 Helgoland, Germany
| | - Uta R Kraus
- Federal Maritime and Hydrographic Agency (BSH), Bernhard-Nocht-Str. 78, 20359 Hamburg, Germany
| | - Gunnar Gerdts
- Shelf Seas Systems Ecology, Biologische Anstalt Helgoland, Alfred Wegener Institute, Helmholtz Centre for Polar and Marine Research, Kurpromenade 201, 27498 Helgoland, Germany.
| |
Collapse
|
43
|
Tran Nguyen QA, Nguyen HNY, Strady E, Nguyen QT, Trinh-Dang M, Vo VM. Characteristics of microplastics in shoreline sediments from a tropical and urbanized beach (Da Nang, Vietnam). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2020; 161:111768. [PMID: 33091634 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.111768] [Citation(s) in RCA: 28] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/17/2020] [Revised: 10/10/2020] [Accepted: 10/11/2020] [Indexed: 05/12/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics in shoreline sediments were investigated from Da Nang beach for the first time. Sediment samples at the two depth strata (0-5 cm and 5-10 cm) at eight sites along the entire coast were collected for identifying the characteristics of microplastics, including their concentration, size, shape, color, and nature. The synthetic fiber was the predominant type of microplastics, accounting for 99.2% of the total items. Blue (59.9%) and white (22.9%) were the most common colors of the fibers. Synthetic fibers showed a homogenous distribution at all sampling sites with a mean concentration of 9238 ± 2097 items kg-1 d.w. Meanwhile, the fibers tended to concentrate much more at the surface stratum than the deeper stratum. A large number of synthetic fibers (81.9%) were in the size range of 300-2600 μm, which might pose a threat to marine biota and human health.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Quynh Anh Tran Nguyen
- The University of Da Nang - University of Science and Education, 459 Ton Duc Thang, Danang, Viet Nam
| | - Hoai Nhu Y Nguyen
- The University of Da Nang - University of Science and Education, 459 Ton Duc Thang, Danang, Viet Nam
| | - Emilie Strady
- Aix-Marseille Univ., Mediterranean Institute of Oceanography (MIO), Marseille, Université de Toulon, CNRS/IRD, France; CARE, Ho Chi Minh University of Technology, VNU-HCM, Viet Nam
| | - Quy Tuan Nguyen
- The University of Da Nang - University of Science and Education, 459 Ton Duc Thang, Danang, Viet Nam
| | - Mau Trinh-Dang
- The University of Da Nang - University of Science and Education, 459 Ton Duc Thang, Danang, Viet Nam.
| | - Van Minh Vo
- The University of Da Nang - University of Science and Education, 459 Ton Duc Thang, Danang, Viet Nam.
| |
Collapse
|
44
|
Turner A. Foamed Polystyrene in the Marine Environment: Sources, Additives, Transport, Behavior, and Impacts. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 54:10411-10420. [PMID: 32786582 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c03221] [Citation(s) in RCA: 54] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
Foamed polystyrene (PS) that may be either expanded (EPS) or extruded (XPS) is a rigid, lightweight insulating thermoplastic that has a variety of uses in the consumer, packaging, construction, and marine sectors. The properties of the material also result in waste that is readily generated, dispersed, and fragmented in the environment. This review focuses on foamed PS in the marine setting, including its sources, transport, degradation, acquisition of contaminants, ingestion by animals, and biological impacts arising from the mobilization of chemical additives. In the ocean, foamed PS is subject to wind-assisted transport and fracturing via photolytic degradation. The material may also act as a substrate for rafting organisms while being exposed to elevated concentrations of natural and anthropogenic surface-active chemicals in the sea surface microlayer. In the littoral setting, fragmentation is accentuated by milling in the swash zone and abrasion when beached, with wind transport leading to the temporary burial of significant quantities of material. Ingestion of EPS and XPS has been documented for a variety of marine animals, but principally those that feed at the sea surface or use the material as a habitat. As well as risking injuries due to gastro-intestinal blockage, ingestion of foamed PS exposes animals to harmful chemicals, and of greatest concern in this respect is the presence of the historical, but still recycled, flame-retardant, hexabromocyclododecane. Because foamed PS is particularly difficult to retrieve as a constituent of marine litter, means of reducing its presence and impacts will rely on the elimination of processes that generate foamed waste, modification of current storage and disposal practices, and the development of more durable and sustainable alternatives.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Turner
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences University of Plymouth Plymouth PL4 8AA, U.K
| |
Collapse
|
45
|
Litchfield SG, Schulz KG, Kelaher BP. The influence of plastic pollution and ocean change on detrital decomposition. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2020; 158:111354. [PMID: 32753168 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.111354] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/14/2020] [Revised: 06/04/2020] [Accepted: 06/04/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution and ocean change have mostly been assessed separately, missing potential interactions that either enhance or reduce future impacts on ecosystem processes. Here, we used manipulative experiments with outdoor mesocosms to test hypotheses about the interactive effects of plastic pollution, ocean warming and acidification on macrophyte detrital decomposition. These experiments focused on detritus from kelp, Ecklonia radiata, and eelgrass, Zostera muelleri, and included crossed treatments of (i) no, low and high plastic pollution, (ii) current/future ocean temperatures, and (iii) ambient/future ocean partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO2). High levels of plastic pollution significantly reduced the decomposition rate of kelp and eelgrass by approximately 27% and 36% in comparison to controls respectively. Plastic pollution also significantly slowed the nitrogen liberation from seagrass and kelp detritus. Higher seawater temperatures significantly increased the decomposition rate of kelp and eelgrass by 12% and 5% over current conditions, respectively. Higher seawater temperatures were also found to reduce the nitrogen liberation in eelgrass. In contrast, ocean acidification did not significantly influence the rate of macrophyte decomposition or nutrient liberation. Overall, our results show how detrital processes might respond to increasing plastic pollution and ocean temperatures, which has implications for detrital-driven secondary productivity, nutrient dynamics and carbon cycling.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sebastian G Litchfield
- National Marine Science Centre and Marine Ecology Research Centre, Southern Cross University, PO Box 4321, Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450, Australia.
| | - Kai G Schulz
- Centre for Coastal Biogeochemistry and School of Environment, Science and Engineering, Southern Cross University, PO Box 157, East Lismore, NSW 2480, Australia
| | - Brendan P Kelaher
- National Marine Science Centre and Marine Ecology Research Centre, Southern Cross University, PO Box 4321, Coffs Harbour, NSW 2450, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
46
|
Okuku EO, Kiteresi LI, Owato G, Mwalugha C, Omire J, Mbuche M, Chepkemboi P, Ndwiga J, Nelson A, Kenneth O, Lilian M, Brenda G. Baseline meso-litter pollution in selected coastal beaches of Kenya: Where do we concentrate our intervention efforts? MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2020; 158:111420. [PMID: 32753204 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.111420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2020] [Revised: 06/24/2020] [Accepted: 06/26/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
A total of 23 beaches were surveyed between July and September 2019. Meso-litter was collected by sieving sediment collected from 0.25 m2 quadrats laid along perpendicular transects through 5 mm mesh size sieves. The results showed that plastics were the most abundant litter encountered on all the beaches. Beaches close to urban areas had a higher number of litter categories (i.e. plastic, metal, foam, and paper) compared to the remote beaches that only had plastics. In conclusion, the lack of statistically significant evidence of the influence of proximity to urban centers, the predominant activity in the beaches, and exposure to wave action on the amount of meso-litter attest to the fact that marine litter pollution is a geographical spread problem that will require national, regional, and global action and approach to address. The intervention efforts (including beach clean-ups) should preferably target beaches that have back vegetation compared to those with seawalls.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Eric Ochieng Okuku
- Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, P. O. Box 81651, Mombasa, Kenya.
| | - Linet Imbayi Kiteresi
- Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, P. O. Box 81651, Mombasa, Kenya; Pwani University, P.O. Box 195-80108, Kilifi., Kenya
| | - Gilbert Owato
- Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, P. O. Box 81651, Mombasa, Kenya; Pwani University, P.O. Box 195-80108, Kilifi., Kenya
| | - Catherine Mwalugha
- Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, P. O. Box 81651, Mombasa, Kenya; Pwani University, P.O. Box 195-80108, Kilifi., Kenya
| | - Jill Omire
- Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, P. O. Box 81651, Mombasa, Kenya
| | - Mary Mbuche
- Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, P. O. Box 81651, Mombasa, Kenya
| | - Purity Chepkemboi
- Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, P. O. Box 81651, Mombasa, Kenya
| | - Joey Ndwiga
- Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, P. O. Box 81651, Mombasa, Kenya
| | - Annette Nelson
- Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, P. O. Box 81651, Mombasa, Kenya
| | - Otieno Kenneth
- Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, P. O. Box 81651, Mombasa, Kenya; Technical University of Mombasa, P.O. Box 90420 - 80100, Mombasa, Kenya
| | - Mulupi Lilian
- Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, P. O. Box 81651, Mombasa, Kenya; Pwani University, P.O. Box 195-80108, Kilifi., Kenya
| | - Gwada Brenda
- Kenya Marine and Fisheries Research Institute, P. O. Box 81651, Mombasa, Kenya
| |
Collapse
|
47
|
Occurrence, Composition, and Relationships in Marine Plastic Debris on the First Long Beach Adjacent to the Land-Based Source, South China Sea. JOURNAL OF MARINE SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/jmse8090666] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/15/2022]
Abstract
Land-based sources are the key sources of plastic debris, and mismanaged plastic debris can eventually enter the ocean via marine beaches. In this study, the spatial distribution and amount of plastic debris in the land-based source input zone of First Long Beach (FLB), China, which is a major tourist attraction, were first investigated. By using field investigation, sand samples were collected from two sections on FLB adjacent to land-based sources in December 2019, and the plastic debris in the sand samples was quantified and characterized in the laboratory. The amount of plastic debris ranged from 2 to 82 particles/m2 on this marine sand beach. There was a significant difference in plastic debris amount between the transects along the land-based source input zone (p < 0.05) due to the impacts of wind, ocean currents, and waves. The most abundant size of plastics was 0.5–2.5 cm (44.4%). Moreover, the most common color was white (60.9%). The most abundant shape of plastic debris fell into the fragment category (76.2%). The plastic debris amounts were significantly correlated with multiple sizes. Our results show that land-based wastewater discharge is a large plastic debris source on FLB under coastal water tide variation. Reduction strategies should be carried out by tracing the various land-based sources of plastic debris.
Collapse
|
48
|
Microplastics: Holistic overview of source, identification, interaction, health and environmental implications and strategies of abatement. ACTA ACUST UNITED AC 2020. [DOI: 10.2478/acmy-2021-0004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) is currently a subject of discussion in all parts of the world because it has increasingly over the years become the dominant source of pollution in marine ecosystem. Huge number of these Mps emanate from waste management, decommissioning of ships and oil rigs, plastic products in aquaculture and fishery, sewage treatment, consumer products, agricultural production, transportation, offshore oil and gas production and city dust and wears. Microplastic are characteristically non- biodegradable or durable, exhibits buoyancy, travel long distances, complex with toxic chemicals and bioaccumulate being invisible to the human eye. Classification of MPs into primary and secondary based on source and established standard protocols visa-vis the sampling and identification in matrices were critically reviewed. Physicochemical processes for identification of MPs such as pyrolysis-Gas chromatography/Mass spectrometry, FTIR, Raman spectroscopy, SEM-GS and TGA/MS were reviewed. Deleterious chemicals such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs), dioxins, phthalates, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and persistent organic chemicals (POCs) associated with MPs and mechanisms of chelation were appraised. Several menace and health hazards such as hepatic inflammation, genetic mutation, increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS) /oxidative stress, tissue necrosis and proliferation of cells linked with MPs were also discussed. Furthermore, green approaches to arresting the menace such as replacing polymer products with biopolymer an eco-friendly alternative, recycling of plastic products, use of paper bags and glass materials and abrogation of consumer products laced with microbeads were advocated.
Collapse
|
49
|
Chubarenko I, Esiukova E, Khatmullina L, Lobchuk O, Grave A, Kileso A, Haseler M. From macro to micro, from patchy to uniform: Analyzing plastic contamination along and across a sandy tide-less coast. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2020; 156:111198. [PMID: 32510360 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.111198] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/08/2020] [Revised: 04/17/2020] [Accepted: 04/17/2020] [Indexed: 05/06/2023]
Abstract
In search of an effective method to evaluate plastic contamination, macrolitter (>25 mm), mesolitter (5-25 mm), large microlitter (2-5 mm), large and small microplastics (2-5 mm and 0.5-2 mm) abundances in surface beach sands were simultaneously determined by two methods in four beach zones at six locations along the 100-km-long marine coast of the Curonian Spit National Park and the neighboring cities. Mean (median) content of plastic items per m2 is 0.85 (0.33) for macro-, 1.48 (0.40) for meso-, 3.35 (0.68) for large microlitter, and 3235 (1800) for microplastics (0.5-5 mm). The distribution of litter and microplastics (0.5-5 mm) is highly variable along and across the beach. The abundance of small-microplastics (0.5-2 mm) at the beach face is similar for all the locations and replicates. Swash-zone mixing, water percolation, importance of sediment pore size (rather than grain size), natural sorting of plastic particles at the beach face are considered.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- I Chubarenko
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 36, Nakhimovski prospect, Moscow 117997, Russia.
| | - E Esiukova
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 36, Nakhimovski prospect, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - L Khatmullina
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 36, Nakhimovski prospect, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - O Lobchuk
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 36, Nakhimovski prospect, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - A Grave
- Shirshov Institute of Oceanology, Russian Academy of Sciences, 36, Nakhimovski prospect, Moscow 117997, Russia
| | - A Kileso
- Immanuel Kant Baltic Federal University, 14, A. Nevskogo ul., Kaliningrad 236016, Russia
| | - M Haseler
- Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research Warnemünde, Seestrasse 15, D-18119 Rostock, Germany
| |
Collapse
|
50
|
Urban-Malinga B, Zalewski M, Jakubowska A, Wodzinowski T, Malinga M, Pałys B, Dąbrowska A. Microplastics on sandy beaches of the southern Baltic Sea. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2020; 155:111170. [PMID: 32469780 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.111170] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/31/2019] [Revised: 04/10/2020] [Accepted: 04/11/2020] [Indexed: 05/28/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic occurrence and composition were investigated along the Polish coast (southern Baltic Sea) on 12 beaches differing in terms of intensity of their touristic exploitation, urbanisation and sediment characteristics. Their mean concentrations varied between 76 and 295 items per kg dry sediment. Fibres and plastic fragments were the dominant microplastic types. Overall, no relationship was found between their concentrations and sediment characteristics. Fine sediments were not identified as microplastic pollution traps. The highest microplastic concentrations were recorded at some urban beaches indicating that population density and the level of coastal infrastructure development are important factors affecting microplastic pollution level on beaches. On the other hand, microplastic concentrations in national parks did not differ substantially from the other beaches. Our results suggest that sediment accumulation processes may exceed microplastic accumulation, and overcome the effect of tourism and/or urbanisation, highlighting the role of the beach hydrodynamic status in structuring beach microplastic pollution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Mariusz Zalewski
- National Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Kołłątaja 1, 81-332 Gdynia, Poland
| | - Aneta Jakubowska
- National Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Kołłątaja 1, 81-332 Gdynia, Poland
| | - Tycjan Wodzinowski
- National Marine Fisheries Research Institute, Kołłątaja 1, 81-332 Gdynia, Poland
| | - Maja Malinga
- Gdańsk University of Technology, Faculty of Applied Physics and Mathematics, Gabriela Narutowicza 11/12, 80-233 Gdańsk, Poland
| | - Barbara Pałys
- University of Warsaw, Faculty of Chemistry, Laboratory of Molecular Interactions, Pasteura 1, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| | - Agnieszka Dąbrowska
- University of Warsaw, Faculty of Chemistry, Laboratory of Molecular Interactions, Pasteura 1, 02-093 Warsaw, Poland
| |
Collapse
|