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Battisti C, Cesarini G, Gallitelli L, Moretti F, Scalici M. Anthropogenic litter in a Mediterranean coastal wetland: A heterogeneous spatial pattern of historical deposition. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 201:116163. [PMID: 38401392 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116163] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/06/2024] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/12/2024] [Indexed: 02/26/2024]
Abstract
Coastal wetlands represent areas that can testify historical accumulation of litter. We analyzed the anthropogenic litter deposited on the channel bottom of a coastal wetland area that experienced water stress due to extreme summer dryness after about 20 years. We hypothesize that the litter accumulated in the different areas over the years reflects the different social user categories (i.e., fishermen, beach users, hunters) and exposure to meteo-marine events. Our findings highlight that historically accumulated litter is composed of plastics (78.8 %), clothes (8.9 %), and glass (4.9 %). Moreover, litter concentration averages 53.6 items/ha in the 8 sectors. The most found categories were common household items (25.4 %), diverse (professional and consumer) items (24.2 %), and food and beverages packaging (21.4 %). Finally, litter diversity indices and the Detrended Correspondence Analysis showed sector and litter type similarities. We reported for the first time the presence of litter accumulated for 20 years testifying non-more occurring recreational activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corrado Battisti
- 'Torre Flavia' LTER (Long Term Ecological Research) Station, Città Metropolitana di Roma Capitale, Italy
| | - Giulia Cesarini
- National Research Council - Water Research Institute (CNR-IRSA), Corso Tonolli 50, 28922 Verbania, Italy
| | - Luca Gallitelli
- University of Roma Tre, Department of Sciences, Viale Guglielmo Marconi, 446 00146 Rome, Italy.
| | - Filippo Moretti
- ENEA Italian National Agency for New Technologies, Energy and Sustainable Economic Development, Agrifood Sustainability, Quality and Safety Laboratory BIOAG-PROBIO, Via Anguillarese 301, 00123 Santa Maria di Galeria (RM), Italy
| | - Massimiliano Scalici
- University of Roma Tre, Department of Sciences, Viale Guglielmo Marconi, 446 00146 Rome, Italy; National Biodiversity Future Center (NBFC), Università di Palermo, Piazza Marina 61, 90133 Palermo, Italy
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2
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Menicagli V, Balestri E, Giommoni F, Vannini C, Lardicci C. Plastic litter changes the rhizosphere bacterial community of coastal dune plants. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 880:163293. [PMID: 37030390 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.163293] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2023] [Revised: 03/30/2023] [Accepted: 04/01/2023] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
The presence of plastic litter in coastal environments like beach-dune systems has been well documented, and recent studies have shown that this pollutant can influence sand properties as well as dune vegetation. However, the effects of plastics on rhizosphere bacterial communities of dune plants have largely been neglected. This is an ecologically relevant issue since these communities may play an important role in improving plant growth and resilience of dune systems. Here, we explored the impact of plastic litter made of either non-biodegradable polymers (NBP) or biodegradable/compostable polymers (BP) on the structure and composition of rhizosphere bacterial communities associated with two widespread species along coastal European dunes, Thinopyrum junceum and Sporobolus pumilus, by using a one-year field experiment combined with metabarcoding techniques. Both plastics did not affect neither the survival nor the biomass of T. junceum plants, but they significantly increased alpha-diversity of rhizosphere bacterial communities. They also changed rhizosphere composition by increasing the abundance of the phyla Acidobacteria, Chlamydiae, and Nitrospirae, and of the family Pirellulaceae, and reducing the abundance of the family Rhizobiaceae. NBP reduced drastically the survival of S. pumilus while BP increased its root biomass compared to controls. BP also increased the abundance of the phylum Patescibacteria of the rhizosphere bacterial communities. Our findings provide the first evidence that NBP and BP can change rhizosphere bacterial communities associated with dune plants and highlight the importance of investigating how these changes can affect the resilience of coastal dunes to climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Claudia Vannini
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy; Center for Instrument Sharing University of Pisa (CISUP), University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy; Center for Climate Change Impact, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - Claudio Lardicci
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy; Center for Instrument Sharing University of Pisa (CISUP), University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy; Center for Climate Change Impact, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
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3
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Calderisi G, Cogoni D, Loni A, Fenu G. Difference between invasive alien and native vegetation in trapping beach litter: A focus on a typical sandy beach of W-Mediterranean Basin. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 192:115065. [PMID: 37216878 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115065] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/03/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/11/2023] [Indexed: 05/24/2023]
Abstract
Beach litter is one of the most pervasive pollution issues in coastal environments worldwide. In this study, we aim to assess the amount and distribution of beach litter on Porto Paglia beach, its entrapment across psammophilous habitats, and whether the invasive Carpobrotus acinaciformis (L.) L.Bolus plays a different role in trapping litter than native vegetation. To this end, two seasonal samplings (in spring and autumn) were conducted using a paired sampling method that considers plots in all coastal habitats with and without C. acinaciformis. Our results confirm that the main beach litter category is plastic, and that its distribution varies across habitats: the white dune seems to play a greater role in trapping and filtering beach litter, reducing its amount in the backdune. A correlation was found between the Naturalness index (N) and the beach litter amount, supporting the finding that invaded habitats trap beach litter better than native ones.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Calderisi
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences (DiSVA), University of Cagliari, Viale Sant'Ignazio da Laconi 13, 09123 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Donatella Cogoni
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences (DiSVA), University of Cagliari, Viale Sant'Ignazio da Laconi 13, 09123 Cagliari, Italy.
| | - Alessandra Loni
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences (DiSVA), University of Cagliari, Viale Sant'Ignazio da Laconi 13, 09123 Cagliari, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Fenu
- Department of Life and Environmental Sciences (DiSVA), University of Cagliari, Viale Sant'Ignazio da Laconi 13, 09123 Cagliari, Italy
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4
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Valderrama-Herrera M, Cardenas SA, Calvo-Mac C, Celi-Vértiz RG, Chumpitaz-Levano VL, Flores-Miranda WE, Lopez-Tirado ZMT, Molina-Alvarez M, Rubio-Cheon DN, Trucios-Castro M, Fernández Severini MD, Forero López AD, Ramos W, Pretell V, Castro IB, Ribeiro VV, Dobaradaran S, Espinoza-Morriberón D, Ben-Haddad M, Dioses-Salinas DC, De-la-Torre GE. Rajids ovipositing on marine litter: A potential threat to their survival. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 191:114941. [PMID: 37080019 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Revised: 04/08/2023] [Accepted: 04/10/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
Marine litter is a complex environmental issue threatening the well-being of multiple organisms. In the present study, we present an overlooked pathway by which marine litter interaction with certain ovigerous skates (Family: Rajidae) communities could compromise their survival. We propose that skates from the genus Sympterygia deposit their egg capsules on marine litter substrates by accident, which are then washed ashore still unhatched. We conducted 10 monitoring surveys on three beaches of La Libertad Region, on the north coast of Peru, looking for marine litter conglomerates to determine the presence of egg capsules. We registered a total of 75 marine litter conglomerates, containing 1595 egg capsules, out of which only 15.9 % were presumably hatched, and 15.8 % were still fresh. Fishing materials were identified as the main item in marine litter conglomerates. We conclude that this behavior could contribute to the decline of Sympterygia communities, although further research is needed.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Sara Amada Cardenas
- ONG Conservacción, Calle Ugarte y Moscoso 535, San Isidro, Lima, Peru; Universidad Peruana Cayetano Heredia, Av. Honorio Delgado 430, San Martín de Porres, Lima, Peru
| | - Carlos Calvo-Mac
- ONG Conservacción, Calle Ugarte y Moscoso 535, San Isidro, Lima, Peru
| | | | | | | | | | | | | | | | - Melisa D Fernández Severini
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), CONICET/UNS, CCT-Bahía Blanca, Camino La Carrindanga, km 7.5, Edificio E1, Bahía Blanca B8000FWB, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana D Forero López
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO), CONICET/UNS, CCT-Bahía Blanca, Camino La Carrindanga, km 7.5, Edificio E1, Bahía Blanca B8000FWB, Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Williams Ramos
- Universidad Nacional de Ingeniería, Av. Túpac Amaru 210, Lima 25, Lima, Peru
| | - Victor Pretell
- Universidad Nacional de Ingeniería, Av. Túpac Amaru 210, Lima 25, Lima, Peru
| | - Italo B Castro
- Institute of Oceanography, Universidade Federal Do Rio Grande, Brazil; Instituto do Mar Universidade Federal de São Paulo, Santos, SP 11070, Brazil
| | | | - Sina Dobaradaran
- Systems Environmental Health and Energy Research Center, The Persian Gulf Biomedical Sciences Research Institute, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran; Department of Environmental Health Engineering, Faculty of Health and Nutrition, Bushehr University of Medical Sciences, Bushehr, Iran; Instrumental Analytical Chemistry and Centre for Water and Environmental Research (ZWU), Faculty of Chemistry, University of Duisburg-Essen, Universitätsstr. 5, Essen, Germany
| | - Dante Espinoza-Morriberón
- Universidad Tecnológica del Perú (UTP), Facultad de Ingeniería, Jirón Hernán Velarde 260, Cercado de Lima, 15046 Lima, Peru; Universidad Científica del Sur, Facultad de Ciencias Veterinarias y Biológicas, Carrera de Biología Marina, Antigua Panamericana Sur Km. 19, Villa El Salvador, Lima, Peru
| | - Mohamed Ben-Haddad
- Laboratory of Aquatic Systems, Marine and Continental Environments (AQUAMAR), Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir 80000, Morocco
| | | | - Gabriel Enrique De-la-Torre
- Grupo de Investigación de Biodiversidad, Medio Ambiente y Sociedad, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Lima, Peru.
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5
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Meyer G, Puig-Lozano R, Fernández A. Anthropogenic litter in terrestrial flora and fauna: Is the situation as bad as in the ocean? A field study in Southern Germany on five meadows and 150 ruminants in comparison with marine debris. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 323:121304. [PMID: 36804141 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.121304] [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: 12/06/2022] [Revised: 02/13/2023] [Accepted: 02/14/2023] [Indexed: 06/18/2023]
Abstract
In contrast to the abundance of research on marine debris, terrestrial anthropogenic litter and its impacts are largely lacking scientific attention. Therefore, the main objective of the present study is to find out whether ingested litter produces pathological consequences to the health of domestic ruminants, as it does in their relatives in the ocean, the cetaceans. For this purpose, five meadows (49°18'N, 10°24'E) with a total survey area of 139,050 m2 as well as the gastric content of 100 slaughtered cattle and 50 slaughtered sheep have been examined for persistent man-made debris in Northern Bavaria, Germany. All the five meadows contained garbage, and plastics were always part of it. Including glass and metal, 521 persistent anthropogenic objects were detected altogether, equalling a litter density of 3747 items per km2. Of the examined animals, 30.0% of the cattle and 6.0% of the sheep harboured anthropogenic foreign bodies in their gastric tract. As in the case of cetaceans, plastics were the most dominant litter material. Bezoars had formed around plastic fibres of agricultural origin in two young bulls, whereas pointed metal objects were associated in cattle with traumatic lesions in the reticulum and the tongue. Of all the ingested anthropogenic debris, 24 items (26.4%) had direct equivalents in the studied meadows. Comparing with marine litter, 28 items (30.8%) were also present in marine environments and 27 items (29.7%) were previously reported as foreign bodies in marine animals. At least in this study region, waste pollution affected terrestrial environments and domestic animals, with clear equivalents in the marine world. Ingested foreign bodies produced lesions that may have reduced the animals' welfare and, regarding commercial purposes, their productivity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Gabriele Meyer
- Veterinarian, Department of Public Security, City Administration of Ansbach, Germany.
| | - Raquel Puig-Lozano
- Division of Histology and Animal Pathology, University Institute for Animal Health and Food Safety (IUSA), Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain
| | - Antonio Fernández
- Division of Histology and Animal Pathology, University Institute for Animal Health and Food Safety (IUSA), Veterinary School, University of Las Palmas de Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, Spain
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6
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Gallitelli L, Battisti C, Scalici M. Dunal plants intercepting macrolitter: Implications for beach clean-ups. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 187:114585. [PMID: 36638716 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114585] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/17/2022] [Revised: 12/27/2022] [Accepted: 01/03/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Coastal vegetation intercepts macroplastics and, consequently, it may represent a reservoir of anthropogenic litter and organic wrack. We aimed at investigating (i) the abundance variation of macrolitter from the beach to foredune and backdune (three cross-shore plots over 20 long-shore sectors) and (ii) the role of the halo-psammophilous plants and Phragmites australis reedbed in intercepting the macrolitter, respectively, in the foredunes and backdunes. The vegetation in the foredunes (mainly halo-psammophilous species) acted as a first interception belt for macrolitter, while the bigger litter reached the backdunes. Our results might be of great concern with implications for beach clean-ups - which must also be mainly focused in foredunes and backdunes, however warning operators in advance that they could damage the vegetation by trampling on.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luca Gallitelli
- Department of Sciences, University of Rome Tre, Rome, Italy.
| | - Corrado Battisti
- "Torre Flavia" LTER (Long Term Ecological Research) Station, Protected Areas Service, Città Metropolitana di Roma Capitale, Rome, Italy.
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7
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Ben-Haddad M, Abelouah MR, Hajji S, Rangel-Buitrago N, Alla AA. The halophyte Cakile maritima Scop. 1772 as a trap of plastic litter on the Moroccan coast. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 187:114574. [PMID: 36634536 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114574] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/03/2022] [Revised: 12/25/2022] [Accepted: 01/01/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
Some plant communities of coastal dunes may affect the magnitude and distribution of litter on the ecosystem. In this study, the aim is to assess the aptitude of the halophyte Cakile maritima Scop. 1772 to be a trap and sink of plastic litter on the Moroccan Atlantic coast. Overall, a significant difference was noted between plastic litter trapped in C. maritima patches (1173 items) and control plots (502 items). Food containers and ropes were the most common trapped items. Shoreline and recreational activities, followed by dumping and ocean/waterway activities are the main sources of the trapped plastic items. The findings suggest the expansion of the cleaning operations to include coastal dunes, the need to change behavior among beachgoers in regard to food plastics disposal, as well the control of C. maritima distribution in the study area, and similar plant species in other regions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Ben-Haddad
- Laboratory of Aquatic Systems, Marine and Continental Environments (AQUAMAR), Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir 80000, Morocco.
| | - Mohamed Rida Abelouah
- Laboratory of Aquatic Systems, Marine and Continental Environments (AQUAMAR), Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir 80000, Morocco
| | - Sara Hajji
- Laboratory of Aquatic Systems, Marine and Continental Environments (AQUAMAR), Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir 80000, Morocco.
| | - Nelson Rangel-Buitrago
- Programa de Biologia, Facultad de Ciencias Basicas, Universidad del Atlantico, Barranquilla, Atlantico, Colombia; Programa de Física, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Atlántico, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia.
| | - Aicha Ait Alla
- Laboratory of Aquatic Systems, Marine and Continental Environments (AQUAMAR), Faculty of Sciences, Ibn Zohr University, Agadir 80000, Morocco.
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8
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Menicagli V, Balestri E, Fulignati S, Raspolli Galletti AM, Lardicci C. Plastic litter in coastal sand dunes: Degradation behavior and impact on native and non-native invasive plants. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2023; 316:120738. [PMID: 36435282 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2022.120738] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Revised: 11/02/2022] [Accepted: 11/22/2022] [Indexed: 06/16/2023]
Abstract
Pollution associated to marine plastic litter is raising increasing concerns due to its potential harmful effects on human health, biota, and coastal ecosystems. However, limited information is available on the degradation behavior of plastics, especially biodegradable ones, in dune habitats. Moreover, the effects of plastics on dune plant growth and ability to withstand environmental stresses and invasion by non-native plants have been largely neglected. This is a particularly relevant issue since biological invasions are major threats to dune ecosystems. In this 18-month study, we examined the degradation behavior of two plastic bags, non-biodegradable (NBP) or biodegradable/compostable (BP), in the dune environment by visual observations and analytical techniques. Concomitantly, we investigated the individual and combined effects of bag type and sand burial (no burial vs. partial burial) on the performance of a native dune plant (Thinopyrum junceum) and an invasive plant (Carpobrotus sp.) and on their interaction. NBP did not show relevant degradation signs over the experimental period as expected. BP exhibited gradual surface modifications and changes in chemical functionality and were almost disintegrated after 18 months. Bags and burial reduced independently T. junceum survival and growth, and most plants died within 8 months of plastic exposure. Bags and burial did not affect Carpobrotus survival. However, burial decreased Carpobrotus growth while NBP increased it. Both plastics increased Carpobrotus competitive ability, and no T. junceum plants survived to co-occurrent Carpobrotus, BP, and burial. These findings indicate that removing all littered plastics from beach-dune systems not only is critical to reduce plastic pollution but also to prevent further spread of invasive species in coastal dunes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Menicagli
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Derna 1, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Elena Balestri
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Derna 1, 56126, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Sara Fulignati
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Via Giuseppe Moruzzi 13, Pisa, Italy
| | | | - Claudio Lardicci
- Center for Instrument Sharing University of Pisa (CISUP), University of Pisa, via S. Maria 53, Pisa, Italy; Center for Climate Change Impact, University of Pisa, Via Del Borghetto 80, Pisa, Italy; Department of Earth Sciences, University of Pisa, via S. Maria 53, Pisa, Italy
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9
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Menicagli V, Balestri E, Biale G, Corti A, La Nasa J, Modugno F, Castelvetro V, Lardicci C. Leached degradation products from beached microplastics: A potential threat to coastal dune plants. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 303:135287. [PMID: 35690174 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.135287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/13/2022] [Revised: 06/06/2022] [Accepted: 06/07/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Plants play a fundamental role in maintaining coastal dunes but also accumulate littered microplastics (MPs). Migration tests suggest that naturally weathered MPs can leach out a broader range of potentially phytotoxic chemicals than virgin MPs. Thus, assessing MPs effects on plants using beached-collected particles rather than virgin ones is critically important. Here, the effects on plants of leachates from two pools of beach-collected and virgin MPs, high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and polypropylene (PP), and their mixture, were explored combining toxicity tests and chemical analyses. Phytotoxicity of MP leachates at different dilutions was evaluated under standard laboratory conditions using test species and under environmentally realistic conditions using the dune species Thinopyrum junceum. Leachates from beached PP and HDPE adversely affected all species, and the extent of these effects varied according to polymer type, concentration, and species. Virgin MPs had weaker effects than beached ones. Several potentially phytotoxic oxidized compounds were detected in water by GC/MS analysis, and their amount estimated. Results indicate that the molecular species leaching from beached MPs - at ppm concentration levels for the individual chemical species - can inhibit plant growth, and the effects of leachates from mixtures of degraded MPs can differ from those from individual polymers, highlighting the need for further investigation of MPs consequences for coastal ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Menicagli
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Via Derna 1, Pisa, Italy; Center for the Integration of Scientific Instruments of the University of Pisa (CISUP), Via S. Maria 53, Pisa, Italy
| | - Elena Balestri
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Via Derna 1, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Greta Biale
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Via Giuseppe Moruzzi 13, Pisa, Italy
| | - Andrea Corti
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Via Giuseppe Moruzzi 13, Pisa, Italy
| | - Jacopo La Nasa
- Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Via Giuseppe Moruzzi 13, Pisa, Italy
| | - Francesca Modugno
- Center for the Integration of Scientific Instruments of the University of Pisa (CISUP), Via S. Maria 53, Pisa, Italy; Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Via Giuseppe Moruzzi 13, Pisa, Italy
| | - Valter Castelvetro
- Center for the Integration of Scientific Instruments of the University of Pisa (CISUP), Via S. Maria 53, Pisa, Italy; Department of Chemistry and Industrial Chemistry, University of Pisa, Via Giuseppe Moruzzi 13, Pisa, Italy
| | - Claudio Lardicci
- Center for the Integration of Scientific Instruments of the University of Pisa (CISUP), Via S. Maria 53, Pisa, Italy; Department of Earth Sciences, University of Pisa, Via S. Maria 53, Pisa, Italy; Center for Climate Change Impact, University of Pisa, Via Del Borghetto 80, Pisa, Italy
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10
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Hatami T, Rakib MRJ, Madadi R, De-la-Torre GE, Idris AM. Personal protective equipment (PPE) pollution in the Caspian Sea, the largest enclosed inland water body in the world. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 824:153771. [PMID: 35182619 PMCID: PMC8848538 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.153771] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/07/2022] [Revised: 02/05/2022] [Accepted: 02/06/2022] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
The COVID-19 pandemic led to a still ongoing international health and sanity crisis. In the current scenario, the actions taken by the national authorities and the public prioritized measures to control the transmission of the virus, such as social distancing, and face mask-wearing. Unfortunately, due to the debilitated waste management systems and incorrect disposal of single-use face masks and other types of personal protective equipment (PPE), the occurrence of these types of items has led to the exacerbation of marine plastic pollution. Although various studies have focused on surveying marine coasts for PPE pollution, studies on inland water are largely lacking. In order to fill this knowledge gap, the present study assessed PPE pollution in the Iranian coast of the Caspian Sea, the largest enclosed inland water body in the world by following standard monitoring procedures. The results concerning the density (1.02 × 10-4 PPE/m2) composition (face masks represented 95.3% of all PPE) of PPE are comparable to previous studies in marine waters. However, a notable decrease in the occurrence of PPE was observed, probably to behavioral and seasonality reasons. The possible consequences of PPE pollution were discussed, although much more research is needed regarding the ecotoxicological aspects of secondary PPE contaminants, such as microplastics and chemical additives. It is expected that face mask mandates will be eventually halted, and PPE will stop being emitted to the environment. However, based on the lessons learned from the COVID-19 scenario, several recommendations for coastal solid waste management are provided. These are proposed to serve during and after the pandemic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tara Hatami
- School of Environment, College of Engineering, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran
| | - Md Refat Jahan Rakib
- Department of Fisheries and Marine Science, Faculty of Science, Noakhali Science and Technology University, Noakhali, Bangladesh.
| | - Reyhane Madadi
- Environmental Research Laboratory, School of Civil Engineering, Iran University of Science and Technology, Tehran, Iran
| | - Gabriel E De-la-Torre
- Grupo de Investigación de Biodiversidad, Medio Ambiente y Sociedad, Universidad San Ignacio de Loyola, Lima, Peru.
| | - Abubakr M Idris
- Department of Chemistry, College of Science, King Khalid University, Abha 61421, Saudi Arabia; Research Center for Advanced Materials Science (RCAMS), King Khalid University, Abha 61421, Saudi Arabia
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11
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Portz L, Manzolli RP, Villate-Daza DA, Fontán-Bouzas Á. Where does marine litter hide? The Providencia and Santa Catalina Island problem, SEAFLOWER Reserve (Colombia). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 813:151878. [PMID: 34826464 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.151878] [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: 07/23/2021] [Revised: 11/17/2021] [Accepted: 11/18/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
The SEAFLOWER Biosphere Reserve (SBR) is the largest Marine Protected Area in the Caribbean Sea and the second largest in Latin America. Marine protected areas are under pressure from various stressors, one of the most important issues being pollution by marine litter, especially plastic. In this study our aim is to establish the distribution pattern and potential sources of solid waste in the different marine/coastal ecosystems of the islands of Providencia and Santa Catalina (SBR), as well as assess any interconnections between these ecosystems. At the same time, the distribution characteristics of marine litter in the different compartments facilitated a more dynamic understanding of the load of marine litter supplied by the islands, both locally and externally. We observed that certain ecosystems, principally back-beach vegetation and mangroves, act as crucial marine litter accumulation zones. Mangroves are important hotspots for plastic accumulation, with densities above eight items/m2 (minimum 8.38 and maximum 10.38 items/m2), while back-beach vegetation (minimum 1.43 and maximum 7.03 items/m2) also removes and stores a portion of the marine litter that arrives on the beaches. Tourist beaches for recreational activities have a low density of marine litter (minimum 0.01 and maximum 0.72 items/m2) due to regular clean-ups, whereas around non-tourist beaches, there is a greater variety of sources and accumulation (minimum 0.31 and maximum 5.41 items/m2). The low density of marine litter found on corals around the island (0-0.02 items/m2) indicates that there is still no significant marine litter stream to the coral reefs. Identifying contamination levels in terms of marine litter and possible flows between ecosystems is critical for adopting management and reduction strategies for such residues.
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Affiliation(s)
- Luana Portz
- Civil and Environmental Department, Universidad de la Costa, Calle 58 # 55 - 66, Barranquilla, Colombia.
| | | | | | - Ángela Fontán-Bouzas
- Centro de Investigación Mariña (CIM), Universidade de Vigo, GEOMA, Vigo 36310, Spain; Physics Department & CESAM - Centre of Environmental and Marine Studies, University of Aveiro, Portugal.
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12
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Andriolo U, Gonçalves G. Is coastal erosion a source of marine litter pollution? Evidence of coastal dunes being a reservoir of plastics. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2022; 174:113307. [PMID: 35090292 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.113307] [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: 11/23/2021] [Revised: 12/14/2021] [Accepted: 12/28/2021] [Indexed: 05/27/2023]
Abstract
This baseline reports scientific evidence of marine litter items embedded in the dune volume at two study sites on the North Atlantic Portuguese coast. We described how stranded litter participate in the sand dune growth/erosion processes on a natural beach-dune system. From the storm-eroded foredunes on the urbanized beach, we documented exhumed plastics with age up to 38 years. Whether litter burial was due to beach-dune morphodynamic processes, or to irresponsible and/or illegal dumping in the past, this work emphasises the need of improving buried litter census and monitoring on coastal dunes. Coastal erosion processes may further exhume litter buried in dune volumes and on other coastal environments over short- and long-term, re-exposing items into the marine environment. Thus, coastal erosion can be accounted as a secondary diffuse source of littering pollution, beside the multiple sources already identified in the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Umberto Andriolo
- INESC Coimbra, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Polo 2, 3030-290 Coimbra, Portugal.
| | - Gil Gonçalves
- INESC Coimbra, Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Polo 2, 3030-290 Coimbra, Portugal; University of Coimbra, Department of Mathematics, Apartado 3008, EC Santa Cruz, 3001 - 501 Coimbra, Portugal.
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13
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Gallitelli L, Battisti C, Olivieri Z, Marandola C, Acosta ATR, Scalici M. Carpobrotus spp. patches as trap for litter: Evidence from a Mediterranean beach. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 173:113029. [PMID: 34673433 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.113029] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2021] [Revised: 09/28/2021] [Accepted: 09/30/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Dunal plants may affect the patterns of deposition of beach litter. In this study, we aimed at evaluating if Carpobrotus spp. patches may act as a litter trap in coastal dune systems. To do so, we counted the number of macrolitter occurring in both Carpobrotus and control (embryo dune vegetation) patches classifying each item into categories according to the Marine Strategy. Totally, we observed a significant difference between litter trapped in Carpobrotus (331 items, representing 62.4% of the total beach litter) and control (199, 37.6%). Plastic fragments were the most trapped items by both Carpobrotus (46.2%) and control patches (47.2%). We also calculated the item co-occurrence, obtaining a random aggregated 'litter community'. The main emerging output is that Carpobrotus patches act as filter in respect to different anthropogenic materials (overall plastics), suggesting that alien plant management actions may contribute to solve beach litter issues as well.
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Affiliation(s)
- L Gallitelli
- Department of Sciences, University of Roma Tre, Viale G. Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy.
| | - C Battisti
- "Torre Flavia" LTER (Long Term Ecological Research) Station, Città Metropolitana di Roma Capitale, Servizio Aree Protette, Via G. Ribotta, 41, 00144 Roma, Italy.
| | - Z Olivieri
- Department of Sciences, University of Roma Tre, Viale G. Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy.
| | - C Marandola
- Department of Sciences, University of Roma Tre, Viale G. Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy.
| | - A T R Acosta
- Department of Sciences, University of Roma Tre, Viale G. Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy.
| | - M Scalici
- Department of Sciences, University of Roma Tre, Viale G. Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy.
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14
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Cresta E, Battisti C. Anthropogenic litter along a coastal-wetland gradient: Reed-bed vegetation in the backdunes may act as a sink for expanded polystyrene. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 172:112829. [PMID: 34391008 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112829] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2021] [Accepted: 08/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
We investigated the accumulation of litter along a transition gradient from the dunal beaches (B), to the backdunes (BD), to the channels of a coastal wetland (W), considering both the total litter and a sub-category represented by expanded polystyrene (EPS). Using a removal sampling technique carried out in spring (April and May), we hypothesized that: (i) the total accumulation of litter decreases progressively from the dunes to the backdunes to wet environments while (ii) the lighter polystyrene concentrates in the BD-W fringe where the Phragmites australis reedbeds can have a sink role for this polymer. The total litter density showed a significant decrease along the gradient B-BD-W in both months, with an evident collapse between BD and W. Analogously, EPS showed a significant difference in density along the B-BD-W gradient in both months, although with a different pattern: a maximum in the BD and a significant collapse between BD and W. The presence of backdune hygrophilous vegetation (Phragmites australis' reedbeds) may act as a sink trapping all types of litter in both cases (total litter and EPS). The different accumulation pattern between total litter and the EPS is due to the lower specific weight of the latter polymer: while the generic litter tends to decrease quantitatively moving away from the sea, the lighter EPS is removed by the winds and pushed towards the land, beyond the dune, where it is trapped by the vegetation, thus showing a peak in density in the backdunes. No significant differences were observed between the litter density in the two months (before and after the removal) either considering the total litter and only EPS. This may suggest a continuous supply of litter from the sea, highlighting how clean-ups actions should be carried out with a higher frequency rather than monthly. This may be even more valid in the period of greater frequency of intense weather-marine events (autumn-winter) when a greater quantity of litter is deposited. These are the first data for the Mediterranean regarding a specific role of wetland hygrophilous vegetation as a sink for anthropogenic litter, mainly expanded polystyrene.
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Affiliation(s)
- Eleonora Cresta
- Department of Agriculture and Forest Sciences (DAFNE), University of Tuscia, 01100 Viterbo, Italy
| | - Corrado Battisti
- 'Torre Flavia' LTER (Long Term Ecological Research) Station, Città Metropolitana di Roma, Protected Areas Service, Via G. Ribotta 41, 00144 Roma, Italy.
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15
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Wu X, Lu J, Du M, Xu X, Beiyuan J, Sarkar B, Bolan N, Xu W, Xu S, Chen X, Wu F, Wang H. Particulate plastics-plant interaction in soil and its implications: A review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 792:148337. [PMID: 34465040 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.148337] [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: 04/10/2021] [Revised: 05/29/2021] [Accepted: 06/04/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
Particulate plastics (<5 mm), including macroplastics (1 μm to 5 mm), microplastics (100 nm to 1 μm) and nanoplastics (<100 nm), have become a global environmental problem due to their widespread occurrence, distribution and ecosystem risk. Although numerous studies on particulate plastics have been conducted in aquatic systems, investigations in the soil ecosystem are lacking. Soil is the main storage place of particulate plastics, conferring significant impacts on plant growth and development. The impact of particulate plastics on plants is directly related to the safety of agricultural products. This review comprehensively examines the pollution characteristics and exposure pathways of particulate plastics in agricultural soils, highlighting plastic uptake process, and mechanisms in plants, and effects of particulate plastics, biodegradable particulate plastics and combined pollution of plastics with other environmental pollutants on plant performances. This review identifies a number of future research prospects including the development of accurate quantitative methods for plastic analysis in soil and plant samples, understanding the environmental behaviors of conventional and biodegradable particulate plastics in the presence and absence of other environmental pollutants, unravelling the fate of particulate plastics in plants, phyto-toxicity and molecular regulatory mechanisms of particultate plastics, and developing best management practices for the production of safe agricultural products in plastic-contaminated soils.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaolian Wu
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong 528000, China
| | - Jinlian Lu
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong 528000, China
| | - Minghui Du
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong 528000, China
| | - Xiaoya Xu
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong 528000, China
| | - Jingzi Beiyuan
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong 528000, China
| | - Binoy Sarkar
- Lancaster Environment Centre, Lancaster University, Lancaster LA1 4YQ, United Kingdom
| | - Nanthi Bolan
- The Global Centre for Environmental Remediation, College of Engineering, Science and Environment, University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, Australia; School of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6001, Australia; The UWA Institute of Agriculture, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6001, Australia
| | - Weicheng Xu
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong 528000, China
| | - Song Xu
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong 528000, China
| | - Xin Chen
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong 528000, China
| | - Fengchang Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Hailong Wang
- School of Environmental and Chemical Engineering, Foshan University, Foshan, Guangdong 528000, China; Key Laboratory of Soil Contamination Bioremediation of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang A&F University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 311300, China.
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16
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Cesarini G, Cera A, Battisti C, Taurozzi D, Scalici M. Is the weight of plastic litter correlated with vegetal wrack? A case study from a Central Italian beach. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 171:112794. [PMID: 34352532 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112794] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/14/2021] [Revised: 07/20/2021] [Accepted: 07/27/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
This study analyzes the occurrence and distribution of plastic litter and the entrapment of plastic by wrack beached on a natural reserve. Large microplastics (2.5 - 5 mm) were the most abundant plastic size category detected. The main color and shape were white and fragment, respectively. The plastics entrapped by egagropiles were mainly transparent fibers. We analyzed the correlation between the weights of plastic litter and vegetal wrack in two transects, selected for their different environmental characteristics. The transect closer to a breakwater showed a significant positive correlation between the weights of plastics and wrack, while the other transect suggested a casual pattern of plastic deposition on the beach. Further research is suggested to focus on the role of breakwaters in altering marine currents and enhancing plastic beaching.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giulia Cesarini
- Department of Sciences, University of Roma Tre, viale G. Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Alessandra Cera
- 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, Città Metropolitana di Roma Capitale, viale G. Ribotta, 41, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Davide Taurozzi
- 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
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17
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Mo A, D'Antraccoli M, Bedini G, Ciccarelli D. The role of plants in the face of marine litter invasion: A case study in an Italian protected area. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2021; 169:112544. [PMID: 34111605 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2021.112544] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/07/2020] [Revised: 04/24/2021] [Accepted: 05/20/2021] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Affiliation(s)
- Alessio Mo
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Derna 1, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - Marco D'Antraccoli
- Pisa Botanic Garden and Museum, University of Pisa, via Luca Ghini 13, 56126 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Gianni Bedini
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Derna 1, 56126 Pisa, Italy; CIRSEC, Centre for Climatic Change Impact, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - Daniela Ciccarelli
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Derna 1, 56126 Pisa, Italy; CIRSEC, Centre for Climatic Change Impact, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
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18
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Modelling Beach Litter Accumulation on Mediterranean Coastal Landscapes: An Integrative Framework Using Species Distribution Models. LAND 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/land10010054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/14/2023]
Abstract
Beach litter accumulation patterns are influenced by biotic and abiotic factors, as well as by the distribution of anthropogenic sources. Although the importance of comprehensive approaches to deal with anthropogenic litter pollution is acknowledged, integrated studies including geomorphologic, biotic, and anthropic factors in relation to beach debris accumulation are still needed. In this perspective, Species Distribution Models (SDMs) might represent an appropriate tool to predict litter accumulation probability in relation to environmental conditions. In this context, we explored the applicability of a SDM–type modelling approach (a Litter Distribution Model; LDM) to map litter accumulation in coastal sand dunes. Starting from 180 litter sampling plots combined with fine–resolution variables, we calibrated LDMs from litter items classified either by their material type or origin. We also mapped litter accumulation hotspots. LDMs achieved fair-to-good predictive performance, with LDMs for litter classified by material type performing significantly better than models for litter classified by origin. Accumulation hotspots were mostly localized along the beach, by beach accesses, and at river mouths. In light of the promising results achieved by LDMs in this study, we conclude that this tool can be successfully applied within a coastal litter management context.
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Vetrimurugan E, Jonathan MP, Sarkar SK, Rodríguez-González F, Roy PD, Velumani S, Sakthi JS. Occurrence, distribution and provenance of micro plastics: A large scale quantitative analysis of beach sediments from southeastern coast of South Africa. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 746:141103. [PMID: 32795758 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.141103] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2020] [Revised: 07/15/2020] [Accepted: 07/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) existence, identification and source were investigated by studying a total of 2539 particles in 349 sediment samples from nine different tourist beaches [(Sodwana & Richard Bays; Ballito, Mtunzini, Tugela, Zinkwazi, Ballito (north & south) and Durban north & south)] of southeastern coast of South Africa. They are more abundant in the beaches of the Durban city, followed by the Sodwana & Richards Bays, Ballito and Mtunzini. The black particles prevailed over the blue, white, pink, brown, red and green MPs. Supremacy of MPs in the Durban city is mainly due to the longshore coastal Agulhas current in the South eastern side of African coast aiding the degradation of primary plastics coming both from continent and sea. SEM images provided the evidences of weathering/degrading process through grooves, cracks, deep fissures, sharp edges and layered degradation showing signs of oxidation due to long term exposure in the coastal environment. EDS results suggested presence of elements (i.e. C, -O, Si, Al, Fe, Ca, Mg, Na, K, S, Ti, Cu and Zn introduced during the production of plastics as additives. FTIR spectral matches identified from all samples infer polypropylene (PP) (62%), rayon (RY) (17.2%), polycarbonate (PC) (29.8%), nylon (NY) (18.92%), polyester (PES) (31.2%), polyacrylonitrile (PAN) (11.21%) and polystyrene (PS) as well as low (28.9%) & high (36.1%) polyethylene terephthalate (PET). Higher abundance of MPs in the beaches of South Africa in comparison with studies around the world emphasizes the need of dispersal monitoring and use of plastic materials/polymers.
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Affiliation(s)
- E Vetrimurugan
- Department of Hydrology, University of Zululand, Private Bag x1001, KwaDlangezwa, 3886, South Africa.
| | - M P Jonathan
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Investigaciones y Estudios sobre Medio Ambiente y Desarrollo (CIIEMAD), Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), Calle 30 de Junio de 1520, Barrio la Laguna Ticomán, Del. Gustavo A. Madero, C.P.07340 Ciudad de México, Mexico.
| | - S K Sarkar
- Department of Marine Science, University of Calcutta, 35 Ballygunge Circular Road, Kolkata 700019, India
| | - Francisco Rodríguez-González
- Centro de Desarrollo de Productos Bióticos (CEPROBI), Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), Carretera Yautepec-Jojutla Km. 6, Calle CEPROBI No. 8, Col. San Isidro, Yautepec, Morelos C.P. 62731, Mexico
| | - Priyadarsi D Roy
- Instituto de Geología, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México (UNAM), Ciudad Universitaria, C.P. 04510, Del. Coyoacán, Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - S Velumani
- Departamento de Ingeniería Eléctrica - SEES, CINVESTAV-IPN, Av IPN 2508, Col. Zacatenco, C.P. 07360 Ciudad de México, Mexico
| | - J S Sakthi
- Centro Interdisciplinario de Investigaciones y Estudios sobre Medio Ambiente y Desarrollo (CIIEMAD), Instituto Politécnico Nacional (IPN), Calle 30 de Junio de 1520, Barrio la Laguna Ticomán, Del. Gustavo A. Madero, C.P.07340 Ciudad de México, Mexico
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20
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Menicagli V, Balestri E, Vallerini F, Castelli A, Lardicci C. Combined effect of plastic litter and increased atmospheric nitrogen deposition on vegetative propagules of dune plants: A further threat to coastal ecosystems. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2020; 266:115281. [PMID: 32841805 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2020.115281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/08/2020] [Revised: 07/23/2020] [Accepted: 07/26/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Large amounts of non-biodegradable plastics are currently deposited on beach-dune systems, and biodegradable plastics could enter these already declining habitats in coming years. Yet, the impacts of plastics on vegetative recruitment, a plant strategy playing a key role in dune stabilization, are unknown. Whether these pollutants interact with increased atmospheric nitrogen (N) deposition, a major global driver of plant biodiversity loss, in affecting plant communities of such nutrient-poor habitats, and how plant-plant interactions mediate their effects need to be explored. In a one-year field experiments, we examined individual and combined effects of plastic (non-biodegradable, biodegradable), N deposition (ambient, elevated) and biotic condition (no interaction, interaction with a conspecific or with a hetero-specific) on the colonization success and growth of vegetative propagules of dune plants. Thinopyrum junceum and Sporobolus pumilus were chosen as models because they co-occur along Mediterranean dunes and differ in ecological role (dune- vs. non dune-building) and photosynthetic pathway (C3 vs. C4). For both species, survival probability was reduced by non-biodegradable plastic and elevated N by up to 100%. Thinopyrum junceum survival was also reduced by S. pumilus presence. Elevated N and biodegradable plastic reduced T. junceum shoot biomass when grown alone and with a conspecific, respectively; these factors in combination mitigated their negative individual effects on root biomass. Biodegradable plastic increased S. pumilus shoot and root biomass, and in combination with elevated N caused a greater biomass investment in belowground (root plus rhizome) than aboveground organs. Non-biodegradable plastic may be a further threat to dune habitats by reducing plant colonization. Biodegradable plastic and increased N deposition could favour the generalist S. pumilus and hinder the dune-building T. junceum. These findings highlight the urgency of implementing measures for preventing plastic deposition on beaches and reducing N input.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Menicagli
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Via Derna 1, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Elena Balestri
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Via Derna 1, 56126, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Flavia Vallerini
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Via Derna 1, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Alberto Castelli
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, Via Derna 1, 56126, Pisa, Italy; Centre for Climate Change Impact, University of Pisa, Via Del Borghetto 80, Pisa, 56124, Italy
| | - Claudio Lardicci
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Pisa, Via S. Maria 53, 56126, Pisa, Italy; Centre for Climate Change Impact, University of Pisa, Via Del Borghetto 80, Pisa, 56124, Italy
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21
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Song YK, Hong SH, Eo S, Han GM, Shim WJ. Rapid Production of Micro- and Nanoplastics by Fragmentation of Expanded Polystyrene Exposed to Sunlight. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2020; 54:11191-11200. [PMID: 32786551 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.0c02288] [Citation(s) in RCA: 99] [Impact Index Per Article: 24.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 05/25/2023]
Abstract
Expanded polystyrene (EPS) is a common plastic marine debris found in oceans worldwide. The unique "foamed" structure of EPS, which is composed of thin layers, is more vulnerable to fragmentation than bulk plastics. However, the production rate of micro- and nanoplastics by the fragmentation of EPS following sunlight exposure remains largely unknown. Here, we determined the fragmentation rate and weight loss of EPS in an outdoor weathering experiment that ran for 24 months. It took only 1 month for the weight of an EPS box to decline by 5% due to photodegradation, and approximately 6.7 × 107 micro- and nanoparticles/cm2 could be produced at a latitude of 34 °N. These results indicate that macro EPS debris can continually produce a massive number of particles within a relatively short exposure duration. The findings provide useful information to inform policymakers how rapidly to remove "likely fragmented" plastic litter from the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Young Kyoung Song
- Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje-shi 53201, South Korea
| | - Sang Hee Hong
- Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje-shi 53201, South Korea
- University of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34113, South Korea
| | - Soeun Eo
- Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje-shi 53201, South Korea
- University of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34113, South Korea
| | - Gi Myung Han
- Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje-shi 53201, South Korea
| | - Won Joon Shim
- Korea Institute of Ocean Science and Technology, Geoje-shi 53201, South Korea
- University of Science and Technology, Daejeon 34113, South Korea
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22
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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: 40] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [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.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andrew Turner
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences University of Plymouth Plymouth PL4 8AA, U.K
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Zhou Q, Tu C, Fu C, Li Y, Zhang H, Xiong K, Zhao X, Li L, Waniek JJ, Luo Y. Characteristics and distribution of microplastics in the coastal mangrove sediments of China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2020; 703:134807. [PMID: 31744692 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.134807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 79] [Impact Index Per Article: 19.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/13/2019] [Revised: 10/02/2019] [Accepted: 10/02/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Mangroves are a unique and important type of coastal wetlands in the tropical and subtropical zones worldwide. The abundance and spatial distribution of microplastics in the mangrove sediments however are still poorly understood. The present study aimed to illustrate the characteristics, abundance and spatial distribution of microplastics in different mangrove sediments along the south-eastern coastal zones of China. Microplastic samples (roughly 10-20 kg fresh sediments at each site) taken from 21 sampling sites showed various shapes, colors, composition, sizes, surface morphology, abundance and strong spatial heterogeneity. Five different shapes of microplastics with a variety of colors were detected in the mangrove sediments, among which foams (74.6%) and fibers (14.0%) were the dominant types. The polymer composition of the microplastics identified based on the FT-IR and μ-FTIR covered polystyrene (75.2%), polypropylene (11.7%), rayon (4.6%), polyester (3.4%), polyethylene (2.8%) and acrylic (2.4%). The observed microplastics with a size range of less than 2 mm made up 58.6% of the total microplastic particles. The microplastics had various surface morphologies, exhibiting complicated weathered surfaces. The abundance of microplastics showed a substantial variation among the sampling sites, ranging from 8.3 to 5738.3 items kg-1 (dry sediment). Altogether, our study provides a better understanding of microplastic pollution status and prevention policy-making of mangrove habitats in China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qian Zhou
- CAS Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 264003 Yantai, China; College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100049 Beijing, China; Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research, 18119 Rostock, Germany
| | - Chen Tu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 264003 Yantai, China
| | - Chuancheng Fu
- CAS Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 264003 Yantai, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 210008 Nanjing, China
| | - Yuan Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 264003 Yantai, China
| | - Haibo Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Soil Contamination Bioremediation of Zhejiang Province, School of Environmental & Resource Sciences, Zhejiang Agriculture and Forestry University, 311300 Hangzhou, China
| | - Kuanxu Xiong
- CAS Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 264003 Yantai, China
| | - Xinyue Zhao
- CAS Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 264003 Yantai, China
| | - Lianzhen Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 264003 Yantai, China
| | - Joanna J Waniek
- Leibniz Institute for Baltic Sea Research, 18119 Rostock, Germany
| | - Yongming Luo
- CAS Key Laboratory of Coastal Environmental Processes and Ecological Remediation, Yantai Institute of Coastal Zone Research, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 264003 Yantai, China; CAS Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 210008 Nanjing, China; College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, 100049 Beijing, China.
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24
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Battisti C, Dodaro G, Fanelli G. Polystyrene seedling trays used as substrate by native plants. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:6690-6694. [PMID: 31865578 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-019-07086-7] [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: 06/10/2019] [Accepted: 11/18/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Among polymers, expanded polystyrene (EPS) is increasingly abundant as a form of anthropogenic litter in natural environments, particularly along waterways. Nevertheless, there is still no research focusing on the interaction between this type of litter and biodiversity components. In this note, we reported the first evidence of an interaction between EPS and living native plants along an artificial drainage channel in a land reclaimed area of Tyrrhenian central Italy. We sampled a number of EPS seedling trays, deriving from agricultural activities, obtaining evidence for an interaction between this polymer and plants: on a total of 231 available seedling holes, 16.88% have been occupied from six species (Lycopus europaeus, Poa cfr. trivialis, Stachys palustris, Silene sp., Phragmites australis, Parietariajudaica). The set of species occurring on floating polystyrene trays appears comparable to that occurring on the sides of the land reclaimed channels (locally, L. europaeus and S. palustris are among the most common species of the riverine vegetation). Therefore, it is very probable that floating trays are a random sample of the seed rain of the vegetation of the sides of the channels. However, more research is needed to assess if the plant assemblage growing on EPS is random process or if peculiar substrate exerts some sort of selection on the plant community.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corrado Battisti
- Torre Flavia LTER (Long Term Ecological Research) Station, Protected area Service, Città Metropolitana di Roma, via Ribotta, 41, 00144, Rome, Italy.
| | - Giuseppe Dodaro
- Fondazione per lo Sviluppo Sostenibile, via Garigliano 61a, 00198, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuliano Fanelli
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Roma Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
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Tziourrou P, Megalovasilis P, Tsounia M, Karapanagioti HK. Characteristics of microplastics on two beaches affected by different land uses in Salamina Island in Saronikos Gulf, east Mediterranean. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2019; 149:110531. [PMID: 31450029 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2019.110531] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/11/2019] [Revised: 08/17/2019] [Accepted: 08/18/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
In the present study, samples were taken from two beaches of the Salamina Island. The results of microplastics characterization agree well with the predicted results based on the land uses both locally and from across the mainland. The first beach, Psili Ammos, is affected by increased anthropogenic and industrial activity. Based on the Attenuated Total Reflectance (ATR) - Fourier Transform Infra-Red spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis mainly polyethylene (PE) fragments are observed than in the second beach, Kanakia. A high percentage of plastic pellets from industrial activity among fragments are found as well as the most fresh and the most degraded particles (based on the ester, keto, and vinyl indices). The second beach, Kanakia, has a high percentage of expanded polystyrene (EPS) particles suggesting an impact from fishing activities rather than industrial ones and all PE samples are found to be degraded suggesting that sources of non-fishing microplastic pollution are further away.
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Affiliation(s)
- P Tziourrou
- Department of Chemistry, University of Patras, Greece
| | | | - M Tsounia
- Department of Env. Technologists, Tech. Educ. Inst. of Ionian Islands, Greece
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26
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Natural Protected Areas as Special Sentinels of Littering on Coastal Dune Vegetation. SUSTAINABILITY 2019. [DOI: 10.3390/su11195446] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022]
Abstract
Beach litter threatens coastal dunes integrity across the world. European countries are committed to improving the environmental status of the marine and coastal environment by 2020, and to do this, they need to reduce the gap of knowledge about litter accumulation patterns in coastal environments. We analyzed the distribution pattern of waste, differentiated by material and origin, in the coastal dune vegetation mosaic along protected natural areas in the Adriatic seashore (central Italy). Litter data were collected following a random stratified procedure. We registered litter occurrence on 180 (2 × 2 m) sampling plots randomly distributed in the different habitats of European conservation concern mapped for the analyzed protected areas. Litter was classified by origin and material, and their abundance on different habitats was explored by multivariate ordination techniques and tested by nonparametric ANOVA followed by Mann-Whitney pairwise post-hoc tests. Most of the plots included at least one waste element being plastic. Plastic was the most abundant material, and fishing and touristic the most polluting activities. Waste distribution varies across coastal dune vegetation types and involves the back dune zone too. Our results stress the need for (a) specific cleaning tasks able to preserve the ecological value of coastal dune habitats and (b) actions aimed at preventing litter production and accumulation.
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27
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Menicagli V, Balestri E, Lardicci C. Exposure of coastal dune vegetation to plastic bag leachates: A neglected impact of plastic litter. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2019; 683:737-748. [PMID: 31150894 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2019.05.245] [Citation(s) in RCA: 41] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2019] [Revised: 05/15/2019] [Accepted: 05/17/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
The presence of plastic bags on coastal dunes worldwide is well documented. Plastic bags contain additives that during rainfall events can leach out from bags into sand dune and be absorbed by seeds and roots of plants. Dune plants play a fundamental role in dune system formation, yet the possible impact of bag leaching on their establishment and development has been neglected. We assessed in laboratory whether (i) not biodegradable bags (high-density polyethylene, PE) and new generation of compostable bags (Mater-bi®, MB) would influence via leaching water chemical/physical properties and (ii) leachates would affect germination and seedling growth using Thinopyrum junceum and Glaucium flavum as models. Leachates were obtained from different amounts of not-exposed and bags exposed to beach or marine conditions simulating various pollution degrees (none, low, intermediate and high pollution). All water variables were affected by leaching. The magnitude of these alterations depended on bag type and environmental exposure. Seeds of T. junceum treated with the high concentration of marine-exposed MB bag leachate germinated later than controls while those of G. flavum treated with the remaining leachates germinated earlier. For both species, leachates from the low concentration of PE and MB marine-exposed bags increased seed germinability. A short radicle was observed in T. junceum seedlings treated with not-exposed MB bag leachates. Glaucium flavum seedlings treated with beach- and marine-exposed PE bags and not-exposed MB bags leachates showed a greater below-aboveground length ratio and those grown with the low concentration of not-exposed PE bag leachate had a longer hypocotyl compared to controls. Leachates from the high concentration of PE and MB bag caused seedling anomalies in both species. These findings indicate that not biodegradable and compostable bags may interact with abiotic/biotic factors and affect via leaching germination phenology, seedling establishment and plant interactions with consequences on dune community structure.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Menicagli
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Derna 1, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Elena Balestri
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Derna 1, 56126, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Claudio Lardicci
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Derna 1, 56126, Pisa, Italy
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Menicagli V, Balestri E, Vallerini F, Castelli A, Lardicci C. Adverse effects of non-biodegradable and compostable plastic bags on the establishment of coastal dune vegetation: First experimental evidences. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2019; 252:188-195. [PMID: 31146234 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2019.05.108] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2019] [Revised: 05/20/2019] [Accepted: 05/21/2019] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Non-biodegradable and compostable plastic bags on beaches negatively affect the development of coastal dune vegetation by drastically reducing seedling emergence and growth.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia Menicagli
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Derna 1, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Elena Balestri
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Derna 1, 56126, Pisa, Italy.
| | - Flavia Vallerini
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Derna 1, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Alberto Castelli
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Derna 1, 56126, Pisa, Italy
| | - Claudio Lardicci
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Derna 1, 56126, Pisa, Italy
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29
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Battisti C, Kroha S, Kozhuharova E, De Michelis S, Fanelli G, Poeta G, Pietrelli L, Cerfolli F. Fishing lines and fish hooks as neglected marine litter: first data on chemical composition, densities, and biological entrapment from a Mediterranean beach. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2019; 26:1000-1007. [PMID: 30456619 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-018-3753-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/09/2018] [Accepted: 11/12/2018] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
We reported first data on the densities and chemical composition of fishing lines and fish hooks deposited on a Mediterranean beach. On a sampling area of 1.5 ha, we removed a total of 185,028 cm of fishing lines (density 12.34 cm/m2) and 33 hooks (density 22 units/ha). Totally, 637.62 g (42.5 mg/m2) of fishing lines were collected. We sampled 120 items entangled belongings to 7 animal taxa (density 6.49 items/100 m of fishing lines). We also observed a not quantifiable number of egagropiles (Posidonia oceanica spheroids), Rhodophyceae (Halymenia sp.) and segments of reeds of Phragmites communis, trapped in the fishing lines. Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy was used in order to identify the chemical composition of the fishing lines: 92% was made of nylon while 8.0% was determined as fluorocarbon based polymers (polyvinylidene fluoride). Because of their subtlety and reduced size, sandy beach cleaning operations should include at least two consecutive removal samplings: indeed, a part of this litter (12.14%) is not removed in the first sampling. The unexpected high density of fishing lines suggests specific management actions aimed to periodically remove this neglected anthropogenic litter.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corrado Battisti
- 'Torre Flavia' LTER (Long Term Ecological Research) Station, Protected Areas - Regional Parks Service, Città Metropolitana di Roma Capitale, via Tiburtina, 691, 00159, Rome, Italy.
| | - Silvio Kroha
- Dipartimento di Scienze, Università degli studi Roma Tre, viale Marconi, 446, 00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Elina Kozhuharova
- Dipartimento di Scienze, Università degli studi Roma Tre, viale Marconi, 446, 00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia De Michelis
- Dipartimento di Scienze, Università degli studi Roma Tre, viale Marconi, 446, 00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Giuliano Fanelli
- Dipartimento di Biologia, Università di Roma Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Poeta
- Dipartimento di Scienze, Università degli studi Roma Tre, viale Marconi, 446, 00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Loris Pietrelli
- ENEA-C.R. Casaccia, Via Anguillarese, 301, 00123, Rome, Italy
| | - Fulvio Cerfolli
- Department of Ecology and Biology Sciences (DEB), Tuscia University, Largo dell'Università, snc, Blocco C, 01100, Viterbo, Italy
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30
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Rangel-Buitrago N, Castro-Barros JD, Adriana Gracia C, Villadiego JDV, Williams AT. Litter impacts on beach/dune systems along the Atlantico Department, the Caribbean Coastline of Colombia. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 137:35-44. [PMID: 30503443 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.10.009] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/27/2018] [Revised: 09/21/2018] [Accepted: 10/02/2018] [Indexed: 06/09/2023]
Abstract
Eight beach/dune systems located along the Atlantico Department, Caribbean coast of Colombia were surveyed to determine litter influences over its scenic quality. Application of the Coastal Scenic Evaluation System (CSES) categorized these systems into two of the five available classes. Five of the investigated beach/dune systems belong to Class IV, while three systems correspond to V. Classes I, II and III were not found. Along these beach/dune systems, a total amount of 1908 litter items were collected with average abundances of 4.2 items/m2. Currently, 82% of surveyed sites are under an unacceptable condition of cleanness. User's habits as well as bad litter management practices are directly responsible for the decline of scenic quality of the Atlantico Department beach/dune systems. Litter management must be centered on strategies to eliminate or minimize litter sources. Specific remedial actions need to be defined and developed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nelson Rangel-Buitrago
- Programa de Física, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Atlántico, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia; Programa de Biologia, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Atlántico, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia.
| | - Julian Dario Castro-Barros
- Programa de Biologia, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Atlántico, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia
| | - C Adriana Gracia
- Programa de Biologia, Facultad de Ciencias Básicas, Universidad del Atlántico, Barranquilla, Atlántico, Colombia
| | | | - Allan T Williams
- Faculty of Architecture, Computing, and Engineering, University of Wales: Trinity Saint David Swansea, Wales, United Kingdom
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31
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Šilc U, Küzmič F, Caković D, Stešević D. Beach litter along various sand dune habitats in the southern Adriatic (E Mediterranean). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 128:353-360. [PMID: 29571383 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.01.045] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/01/2017] [Revised: 01/19/2018] [Accepted: 01/20/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
Marine litter accumulates on sandy beaches and is an important environmental problem, as well as a threat to habitat types that are among the most endangered according to EU legislation. We sampled 120 random plots (2 × 2 m) in spring 2017 to determine the distribution pattern of beach litter along the zonation of habitat types from sea to the inland. The most frequent litter items were plastic, polystyrene and glass. A clear increase of litter cover along the sea-inland gradient is evident, and foredunes and pine forests have the highest cover of litter. Almost no litter was present in humid dune slacks. Shoreline and recreational activities are the major source of beach litter, while ocean/waterway activities are more important in the aphytic zone and strandline.
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Affiliation(s)
- Urban Šilc
- ZRC SAZU (Research Centre of the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts), Institute of Biology, Novi trg 2, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia; BC Naklo, Strahinj 99, SI-4202 Naklo, Slovenia.
| | - Filip Küzmič
- ZRC SAZU (Research Centre of the Slovenian Academy of Sciences and Arts), Institute of Biology, Novi trg 2, SI-1000 Ljubljana, Slovenia
| | - Danka Caković
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Montenegro, Bulevar Džordža Vašingtona bb, 81101 Podgorica, Montenegro
| | - Danijela Stešević
- Department of Biology, Faculty of Natural Sciences and Mathematics, University of Montenegro, Bulevar Džordža Vašingtona bb, 81101 Podgorica, Montenegro
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32
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Pietrelli L, Di Gennaro A, Menegoni P, Lecce F, Poeta G, Acosta ATR, Battisti C, Iannilli V. Pervasive plastisphere: First record of plastics in egagropiles (Posidonia spheroids). ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2017; 229:1032-1036. [PMID: 28778793 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2017.07.098] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/19/2017] [Revised: 07/20/2017] [Accepted: 07/28/2017] [Indexed: 06/07/2023]
Abstract
The ability of Posidonia oceanica spheroids (egagropiles, EG) to incorporate plastics was investigated along the central Italy coast. Plastics were found in the 52.84% of the egagropiles collected (n = 685). The more represented size of plastics has range within 1-1.5 cm, comparable to the size of natural fibres. Comparing plastics occurring both in EG and in surrounding sand, Polyethylene, Polyester and Nylon were the most abundant polymers in EG, while PSE, PE, PP and PET were the most represented in sand. In particular PE and PP were significantly more represented in sand, while PE, Nylon, Polyester and microfibers (as pills) were more represented in EG. Within plastics found in EG, 26.9% were microfibers as small pills (<1 cm), mainly composed of polyamide, polyester, cotton and PET mixing. These microfibers might be produced by discharges from washing machines and currently represents an emerging pollutant with widespread distribution in marine and freshwater ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alessia Di Gennaro
- Department of Sciences, University of Rome III, Viale Marconi, 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | | | | | - Gianluca Poeta
- Department of Sciences, University of Rome III, Viale Marconi, 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Alicia T R Acosta
- Department of Sciences, University of Rome III, Viale Marconi, 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Corrado Battisti
- Torre Flavia LTER (Long Term Ecological Research) Station, Protected Areas Service, Città Metropolitana di Roma Capitale, Via Tiburtina, 691, 00159 Rome, Italy
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33
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Pietrelli L, Poeta G, Battisti C, Sighicelli M. Characterization of plastic beach debris finalized to its removal: a proposal for a recycling scheme. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2017; 24:16536-16542. [PMID: 28589285 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-017-9440-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/19/2017] [Accepted: 06/01/2017] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
Characterization of beach debris is crucial to assess the strategy to answer questions such as recycling. With the aim to assess its use in a recycling scheme, in this note, we carried out a physical and chemical characterization of plastic litter from a pilot beach in Central Italy, using the FT-IR spectroscopy and thermoanalysis. Fourteen polymers, having mainly thermoplastic origin, were identified; among them, the most represented are polyethylene (41.7%) and polypropylene (36.9%). Chemical and mechanical degradation were clearly observed by an IR spectrum. The thermogravimetric analysis curve of the plastic blend shows the melting point at 120-140 °C, and degradation occurs almost totally in a one-step process within 300-500 °C. The high heating value of the plastic debris is 43.9 MJ kg-1. Polymer blends obtained by beach debris show mechanical properties similar to the virgin high-density polyethylene polymer. Following the beach plastic debris characterization, a recycling scheme was suggested.
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Affiliation(s)
- Loris Pietrelli
- ENEA, CR Casaccia, Via Anguillarese, 301, S. Maria di Galeria, 00123, Rome, Italy.
| | - Gianluca Poeta
- Department of Science, Università degli studi Roma III, Viale Marconi, 446, 00146, Rome, Italy
| | - Corrado Battisti
- 'Torre Flavia' LTER (Long Term Ecological Research), Protected Areas-Regional Park Service, Città Metropolitana di Roma Capitale, Via Tiburtina, 691, 00159, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Sighicelli
- ENEA, CR Casaccia, Via Anguillarese, 301, S. Maria di Galeria, 00123, Rome, Italy
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