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Contreras-Llin A, Oxa MP, Díaz-Cruz JM, Serrano N, Diaz-Cruz MS. Adsorption of benzophenone-3 and octocrylene UV filters on polyethylene: analysis by HPLC-MS/MS and voltammetry with screen-printed electrodes. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2025; 377:126468. [PMID: 40381681 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2025.126468] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/26/2025] [Revised: 05/12/2025] [Accepted: 05/15/2025] [Indexed: 05/20/2025]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are persistent pollutants that can adsorb contaminants, facilitating their accumulation in aquatic ecosystems. The presence of UV filters (UVFs) such as benzophenone-3 (BP3) and octocrylene (OC), exacerbates this issue, particularly in coastal areas. This study presents an innovative dual-method approach combining high-performance liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (HPLC-MS/MS) and differential pulse adsorptive stripping voltammetry (DPAdSV) to assess the adsorption of UVFs on polyethylene (PE), a widely found polymer in aquatic environments. Adsorption kinetics were analysed using pseudo-first-order (PFOM) and pseudo-second-order (PSOM) models, revealing a higher equilibrium sorption capacity for OC due to its stronger hydrophobic interactions with PE. A central composite design (CCD) was employed to enhance resources efficiency in experimentation and controlled experiments exposed the materials to both pure fresh water and synthetic seawater. The results indicate a higher adsorption affinity of OC on PE than BP3, attributed to its high octanol-water partition coefficient (log Kow 6.88) and stronger hydrophobic interactions. Exposure time was the most influential variable across both media, while pH and temperature had a significant effect on BP3 adsorption in synthetic seawater. Hydrophobic partitioning, aided by van der Waals forces, was identified as the dominant interaction mechanism for both UVFs, with π-π and electrostatic interactions playing minimal roles due to the nature of the polymer. The study provides new insights into how polymer-pollutant interactions vary across environmental conditions and offers a novel voltammetric alternative for in-situ UVFs monitoring.
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Affiliation(s)
- Albert Contreras-Llin
- ENFOCHEM, Department of Environmental Chemistry. Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA) Severo Ochoa Excellence Center, Spanish Council of Scientific Research (CSIC), Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Chemical Engineering and Analytical Chemistry, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), Martí i Franquès 1-11, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - Mariana Palape Oxa
- ENFOCHEM, Department of Environmental Chemistry. Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA) Severo Ochoa Excellence Center, Spanish Council of Scientific Research (CSIC), Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034, Barcelona, Spain; Department of Chemical Engineering and Analytical Chemistry, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), Martí i Franquès 1-11, 08028, Barcelona, Spain
| | - José Manuel Díaz-Cruz
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Analytical Chemistry, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), Martí i Franquès 1-11, 08028, Barcelona, Spain; Water Research Institute (IdRA), UB, Spain
| | - Núria Serrano
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Analytical Chemistry, Universitat de Barcelona (UB), Martí i Franquès 1-11, 08028, Barcelona, Spain; Water Research Institute (IdRA), UB, Spain
| | - M Silvia Diaz-Cruz
- ENFOCHEM, Department of Environmental Chemistry. Institute of Environmental Assessment and Water Research (IDAEA) Severo Ochoa Excellence Center, Spanish Council of Scientific Research (CSIC), Jordi Girona 18-26, 08034, Barcelona, Spain.
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2
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Zeng Y, Jiang Y, Li Y, Xu X, Yu W, Yu R. Climate warming will alter the impact of microplastics on the bioavailability of arsenic in a subtropical estuary. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2025; 489:137539. [PMID: 39938365 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2025.137539] [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: 10/12/2024] [Revised: 01/31/2025] [Accepted: 02/07/2025] [Indexed: 02/14/2025]
Abstract
The coupling of climate warming and microplastics may affect the dynamics of arsenic bioavailability in estuarine sediments, but the specific processes and regulatory mechanisms of this phenomenon remain poorly investigated. In this study, a typical subtropical estuary - Min River estuary was selected to explore the dynamics pattern, composition characteristics and regulatory mechanism of arsenic bioavailability in sediments under the coupled influence of climate warming and microplastics (type and dose) through incubation experiments by utilizing DGT techniques. The results showed that the high-dose PLA-MPs significantly enhanced the arsenic bioavailability after warming, while low-dose PET-MPs inhibited the effect. High-dose PET-MPs and low-dose PLA-MPs significantly promoted the oxidation of arsenic (III) after warming, while low-dose PET-MPs and high-dose PLA-MPs inhibited the effect. The interaction of temperature, type and dose of MPs significantly affected arsenic bioavailability. The abundances of Bacteroidota decreased, while the abundances of Chloroflexi and Desulfobacterota increased significantly after warming. The correlation between microorganisms and the bio-As was decreased by warming. These findings provide valuable insight for understanding the complex interplay of climate warming and MPs on As-contaminated estuary.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yue Zeng
- College of Environment & Safety Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China; Fujian Provincial Key Laboratory of Remote Sensing of Soil Erosion, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China.
| | - Yajie Jiang
- College of Environment & Safety Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China
| | - Yunqin Li
- College of Environment & Safety Engineering, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou 350108, China
| | - Xiang Xu
- Fujian Provincial Environmental Protection Design Institute Co., Ltd, Fuzhou 350025, China
| | - Wei Yu
- Fujian Provincial Environmental Protection Design Institute Co., Ltd, Fuzhou 350025, China
| | - Rong Yu
- Fujian Provincial Environmental Protection Design Institute Co., Ltd, Fuzhou 350025, China
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3
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Shifa S, Sathish K, Saraswat S. Assessment of Upstream and Downstream Surface Water Microplastic Pollution in Lower Himalayan Gaula River, Uttarakhand, India. BULLETIN OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2025; 114:85. [PMID: 40415134 DOI: 10.1007/s00128-025-04061-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/07/2025] [Accepted: 05/14/2025] [Indexed: 05/27/2025]
Abstract
This study examines the prevalence, characteristics, and distribution of microplastics in the Gaula River, Uttarakhand, India. Microplastics collected from surface water samples at four upstream and four downstream locations along the Gaula River in Uttarakhand were analyzed using SEM-EDS and FTIR spectroscopy to assess their concentration and composition. A total of 212 microplastic particles were identified, with higher downstream accumulation (122 particles) than upstream (90 particles). Fibers and fragments were the dominant shapes, primarily composed of polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP). FTIR confirmed polymer-specific functional groups, while SEM-EDS revealed smooth surfaces with minimal heavy metal adsorption, indicating recent contamination. Findings suggest improper waste disposal and urban runoff as primary pollution sources. This study enhances understanding of microplastic pollution in freshwater ecosystems, particularly in urbanized regions, and underscores the urgent need for effective monitoring and mitigation strategies to reduce environmental impacts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sheikh Shifa
- Department of Environmental Sciences, College of Basic Science and Humanities, G. B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, 263145, India
| | - Karan Sathish
- Department of Environmental Sciences, College of Basic Science and Humanities, G. B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, 263145, India.
| | - Shweta Saraswat
- Department of Environmental Sciences, College of Basic Science and Humanities, G. B. Pant University of Agriculture and Technology, Pantnagar, Uttarakhand, 263145, India
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4
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Chou CK, Winker R, Rebuli ME, Moran T, Rager JE. Respiratory Health Impacts from Natural Disasters and Other Extreme Weather Events: The Role of Environmental Stressors on Asthma and Allergies. Curr Allergy Asthma Rep 2025; 25:25. [PMID: 40397190 DOI: 10.1007/s11882-025-01206-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Accepted: 05/05/2025] [Indexed: 05/22/2025]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The frequency of natural disasters, other extreme weather events, and downstream emissions of emerging contaminants is increasing. One category of health outcome that is now experiencing increased prevalence due to these environmental threats is respiratory disease, specifically asthma and allergies; though a review summarizing current knowledge and research gaps has not been synthesized on this topic in recent years despite growing evidence. RECENT FINDINGS We identified recent literature that connects allergy/asthma with environmental events that are increasing in prevalence alongside natural disasters and other extreme weather events, including algal blooms, floods, heat stress, wildfires, and thunderstorms. Coinciding emissions of per-and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) and microplastics (MPs) are also discussed as downstream outcomes of these environmental events. Available evidence ranged according to environmental event/stressor type, with over 50 papers identified as relevant to this research scope in the last five years. Narrative synthesis of these papers highlighted exposure-disease linkages for stressors related to natural disasters, other extreme weather events, and downstream emissions of emerging contaminants with pulmonary asthma and allergy outcomes. Underlying biological mechanisms are beginning to be elucidated and include widespread inflammation in the lungs and changes in immune cell signaling and function across the pulmonary system. Take home points in this review pave the way for future investigations to better understand the impacts of these environmental events amongst the complex milieu of threats becoming increasingly prevalent worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chloe K Chou
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Curriculum in Toxicology and Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Raquel Winker
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- The Institute for Environmental Health Solutions, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Meghan E Rebuli
- Curriculum in Toxicology and Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- The Institute for Environmental Health Solutions, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Center for Environmental Medicine, Asthma and Lung Biology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Timothy Moran
- Curriculum in Toxicology and Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Center for Environmental Medicine, Asthma and Lung Biology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
- Department of Pediatrics, Microbiology and Immunology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA
| | - Julia E Rager
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
- Curriculum in Toxicology and Environmental Medicine, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
- The Institute for Environmental Health Solutions, Gillings School of Global Public Health, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
- Center for Environmental Medicine, Asthma and Lung Biology, School of Medicine, University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC, USA.
- , 135 Dauer Dr, CB 7431, Chapel Hill, NC, 27599, USA.
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5
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Dar SA, Gani KM. Microplastic pollution in the glaciers, lakes, and rivers of the Hindu Kush Himalayas: Knowledge gaps and future perspectives. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2025; 976:179304. [PMID: 40203747 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2025.179304] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2024] [Revised: 03/06/2025] [Accepted: 03/30/2025] [Indexed: 04/11/2025]
Abstract
The Hindu Kush Himalayas (HKH), often referred to as the Third Pole and the Water Tower of Asia, represents a vital geo-ecological asset, providing essential services to millions of people. However, this once-pristine environment is increasingly threatened by the influx of microplastics. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the current state of microplastic pollution in the HKH region, identifies key research gaps, and highlights areas for future research. A review of existing literature reveals the lack of standardized protocols for microplastics analysis, which hinders cross-study comparisons. The reported microplastic abundances vary widely across environmental matrices including 0.14-31,200 MPs m-3 in river water, 0.072-26,000 MPs kg-1 in river sediments, 180-5500 MPs kg-1 in lake sediments, 55-2380 MPs kg-1 in lake shoreline sediments, 30-871.34 MPs L-1 in glaciers, and 2.23-130 MPs L-1 in lake surface water. Polymer characterization using spectroscopic techniques has identified 54 polymer types across different environmental matrices in the HKH region with polypropylene (PP) being the most dominant, followed by polyethylene (PE), and polystyrene (PS). The sources of microplastics in the HKH region include both local activities and long-range atmospheric transport. Although research on microplastics in the region has gained momentum in recent years, significant knowledge gaps remain regarding their fate, degradation mechanisms, and environmental impacts. Further studies are essential to investigate the role of microplastics as light-absorbing impurities that may accelerate glacier melting, as well as their implications for biodiversity and human health in the region.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shahid Ahmad Dar
- Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology Srinagar, J&K 190006, India.
| | - Khalid Muzamil Gani
- Department of Civil Engineering, National Institute of Technology Srinagar, J&K 190006, India; Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology, Durban University of Technology, PO Box 1334, Durban 4000, South Africa.
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6
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Ho CM, Feng W, Li X, Ngien SK, Yu X, Song F, Yang F, Liao H. Microplastic distribution and its implications for human health through marine environments. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2025; 382:125427. [PMID: 40252426 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2025.125427] [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: 02/21/2025] [Revised: 04/10/2025] [Accepted: 04/15/2025] [Indexed: 04/21/2025]
Abstract
Microplastics are pervasive pollutants in the ocean, threatening ecosystems and human health through bioaccumulation and toxicological effects. This review synthesizes recent findings on microplastic distribution, trophic transfer, and human health impacts. Key findings indicate that microplastic abundance is highest in the Indian and Pacific Oceans, particularly in seawater and sediment. Morphologically, fibers and fragments dominate, with polypropylene, polyethylene, and polyester being the most prevalent polymers. Smaller particles (<1 mm) undergo long-range transport via ocean currents, while biofouling accelerates vertical sinking. Trophic transfer studies confirm microplastic ingestion across marine food webs. Human exposure is associated with seafood consumption, inhalation of airborne particles, and potential dermal contact, particularly in marine environments. These exposures can lead to adverse health effects, including inflammation, organ damage, respiratory issues, oxidative stress, and metabolic disruptions. Finally, this review explores potential strategies for minimizing human exposure to microplastic pollution in marine environments, paving the way for further research in this critical area.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chia Min Ho
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Weiying Feng
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China.
| | - Xiaofeng Li
- China Hebei Construction and Geotechnical Investigation Group Ltd., Shijiazhuang, 050227, China
| | - Su Kong Ngien
- Faculty of Civil Engineering Technology, Universiti Malaysia Pahang Al-Sultan Abdullah, Lebuhraya Persiaran Tun Khalil Yaakob, Gambang, 26300, Pahang, Malaysia
| | - Xuezheng Yu
- School of Materials Science and Engineering, Beihang University, Beijing, 100191, China
| | - Fanhao Song
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
| | - Fang Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
| | - Haiqing Liao
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, China
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7
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Kumar K, Ramli H, Manan TSBA. Microplastic proliferation in Malaysia's waterways: bridging knowledge gaps for environmental health. ENVIRONMENTAL MONITORING AND ASSESSMENT 2025; 197:605. [PMID: 40289044 DOI: 10.1007/s10661-025-14005-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/19/2024] [Accepted: 04/03/2025] [Indexed: 04/29/2025]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) pollution is an imperative environmental concern in Malaysia, distinguished by its insidious nature and enduring detrimental impacts. The nation grapples with challenges such as intensified industrial activities, inadequate plastic waste management, and insufficient law enforcement. There is an urgent need to address Malaysian waterways to mitigate this "Silent Killer" that compromises the food chain, with approximately 50% of MP ingestion attributed to fish, averaging 502.3 mg per individual daily. This review critically evaluates both primary and secondary sources of MP pollution within Malaysia's aquatic ecosystems, categorizing them into three distinct groups: (1) terrestrial sources, (2) aquatic sources, and (3) atmospheric sources. The regulatory frameworks and socioeconomic determinants, including the escalation of vehicle usage and industrial operations, inform these classifications. The research compilation utilized scientific databases, academic conferences, and sector-specific reports. The study underscores the paucity of information regarding MP pollution. It highlights the necessity for comprehensive investigations employing standardized methodologies and primary data collection, encompassing seafood samples, small streams, drainage systems, and sludge analysis. Additionally, secondary data sources, such as air samples from industrial precincts and aquatic environments, are essential for assessing MP. Raising public awareness about post-consumer plastic waste management and oil disposal in restaurants and workshops is crucial. Robust legal frameworks must be enacted and enforced across the nation, extending beyond urban locales, with stringent enforcement and standardized data gathering being vital for formulating effective strategies to reduce plastic waste and foster a safer ecological environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kapil Kumar
- School of Civil Engineering, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Engineering Campus, 14300, Nibong Tebal, Penang, Malaysia.
| | - Harris Ramli
- School of Civil Engineering, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Engineering Campus, 14300, Nibong Tebal, Penang, Malaysia.
| | - Teh Sabariah Binti Abd Manan
- Institute of Tropical Biodiversity and Sustainable Development, Teh Sabariah Binti Abd Manan, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Kuala Terengganu, Malaysia.
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8
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Zhang L, Wang W, Wang F, Wu D, Su Y, Zhan M, Li K, Shi H, Xie B. Decoding the Plastic Patch: Exploring the Global Microplastic Distribution in the Surface Layers of Marine Regions with Interpretable Machine Learning. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2025; 59:7656-7666. [PMID: 40226856 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c12227] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 04/15/2025]
Abstract
The marine environment is grappling with microplastic (MP) pollution, necessitating an understanding of its distribution patterns, influencing factors, and potential ecological risks. However, the vast area of the ocean and budgetary constraints make conducting comprehensive surveys to assess MP pollution impractical. Interpretable machine learning (ML) offers an effective solution. Herein, we used four ML algorithms based on MP data calibrated to the size range of 20-5000 μm and considered various factors to construct a robust predictive ML model of marine MP distribution. Interpretation of the ML model indicated that biogeochemical and anthropogenic factors substantially influence global marine MP pollution, while atmospheric and physical factors exert lesser effects. However, the extent of the influence of each factor may vary within specific marine regions and their underlying mechanisms may differ across regions. The predicted results indicated that the global marine MP concentrations ranged from 0.176 to 27.055 particles/m3 and that MPs in the 20-5000-μm size range did not pose a potential ecological risk. The interpretable ML framework developed in this study covered MP data preprocessing, MP distribution prediction, and interpretation of the influencing factors of MPs, providing an essential reference for marine MP pollution management and decision making.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linjie Zhang
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Biotransformation on Organic Solid Waste, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Wenyue Wang
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Biotransformation on Organic Solid Waste, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Feng Wang
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Biotransformation on Organic Solid Waste, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Dong Wu
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Biotransformation on Organic Solid Waste, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Yinglong Su
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Biotransformation on Organic Solid Waste, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Min Zhan
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Biotransformation on Organic Solid Waste, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Kaiyi Li
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Biotransformation on Organic Solid Waste, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Huahong Shi
- State Key Laboratory of Estuarine and Coastal Research, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
| | - Bing Xie
- Shanghai Engineering Research Center of Biotransformation on Organic Solid Waste, School of Ecological and Environmental Sciences, East China Normal University, Shanghai 200241, China
- Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, China
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9
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Zhu N, Li Z, Yu Y, Liu Z, Liang X, Wang W, Zhao J. Fate of microplastics in soil-water systems: View from free radicals driven by global climate change. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2025; 295:118138. [PMID: 40185036 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2025.118138] [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: 01/13/2025] [Revised: 03/26/2025] [Accepted: 03/31/2025] [Indexed: 04/07/2025]
Abstract
Microplastics are ubiquitously distributed and persistently present in soil-water systems, posing potential ecological and health risks worldwide. Free radicals are highly reactive in soil-water systems, particularly at soil-water-air interface. The dynamic changes of free radicals sensitive to environmental conditions may greatly impact the fate of microplastics. However, the pathways, reaction kinetics, or transformation products of microplastic degradation by free radicals in soil-water systems remains unclear. Climate change alters the physical and chemical environment of soil-water systems and this transformation can directly affect the degradation of microplastics, or indirectly influence it by altering the generation and species of free radicals. Here, we summarized and analyzed the impact of fluctuations in free radicals (such as superoxide radicals, hydrogen peroxide, peroxyl radicals, and hydroxyl radicals) in soil-water systems on the degradation of microplastics and their derivants. We also discussed how changes in free radicals driven by climate change affect the fate of microplastics. By integrating aspects such as climate change, free radical chemistry, and microplastic pollution, this work delineates the critical issues of microplastic pollution exacerbated by environmental condition changes. In response to the existing challenges and deficiencies in current research, feasible countermeasures are proposed. This work offers valuable insights for future research on predicting and controlling ecotoxicity and health risks caused by microplastics associated with global climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nali Zhu
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Zhanming Li
- School of Grain Science and Technology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212100, China
| | - Yue Yu
- School of Grain Science and Technology, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, Jiangsu 212100, China
| | - Ziyin Liu
- College of Environmental & Resource Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Xujun Liang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 13, Shaanxi 712100, China
| | - Wei Wang
- College of Environmental & Resource Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Jiating Zhao
- College of Environmental & Resource Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China.
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10
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Harini R, Sandhya K, Sunil CK, Natarajan V. Seaweed as a sink for microplastic contamination: Uptake, identifications and food safety implications. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2025; 278:121631. [PMID: 40246268 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2025.121631] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2025] [Revised: 04/06/2025] [Accepted: 04/15/2025] [Indexed: 04/19/2025]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are a rising global concern, infiltrating marine ecosystems and food sources, including seaweed, which is widely consumed. This review examines the prevalence of MPs in seaweed, their role as pathways for MPs to enter marine food webs, and the potential risks to marine organisms and human health. Findings indicate that it contributes up to 45.5 % of total dietary microplastic (MP) intake through seaweed, with particularly high levels in South Asian regions, which is concerning. Factors such as seaweeds morphology, surface properties, epibionts, and environmental conditions influence MP uptake. Microplastic contamination in seaweed leads to bioaccumulation and biomagnification, affecting marine organisms through oxidative stress, growth disruption, immune issues, and metabolic disturbances. Seaweeds bioaccumulate heavy metals from seawater, and microplastics (MPs) attract these metals, increasing toxicity might enter food chain posing health risk. Simple methods like water washing can reduce MPs on seaweed surfaces. However, in this case, innovative detection methods and advanced removal technologies are still underexplored. Similarly, Microplastic (MP) contamination presents economic risks to the global seaweed industry, valued at USD 7.0 billion in 2023, with exports reaching 819,100 tonnes worth USD 3.21 billion. By 2024, the industry, dominated by Asian countries, had grown to USD 22.13 billion, but MP contamination threatens further expansion by undermining consumer confidence, reducing market value, and increasing regulatory scrutiny. Asia accounts for 47.9 % of global seafood MP contamination, the economic repercussions could be substantial. Future research should explore the long-term effects of environmental aging on microplastic debris in seaweeds related marine organisms, emphasizing food security and human health. Studies should also focus on the toxicological effects of micro- and Nano plastics (MNPs) from seaweed-based contaminants in human food consumption. Robust government initiatives and policies promoting a circular economy are crucial for effective management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ravi Harini
- National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management - Thanjavur, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Government of India, Thanjavur, 613005, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - K Sandhya
- National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management - Thanjavur, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Government of India, Thanjavur, 613005, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - C K Sunil
- National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management - Thanjavur, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Government of India, Thanjavur, 613005, Tamil Nadu, India
| | - Venkatachalapathy Natarajan
- National Institute of Food Technology, Entrepreneurship and Management - Thanjavur, Ministry of Food Processing Industries, Government of India, Thanjavur, 613005, Tamil Nadu, India.
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11
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Liu X, Zhang L, Du Y, Yang X, He X, Zhang J, Jia B. Microplastics in China's surface water systems: Distribution, driving forces and ecological risk. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2025; 485:136864. [PMID: 39675089 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.136864] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/24/2024] [Revised: 12/04/2024] [Accepted: 12/11/2024] [Indexed: 12/17/2024]
Abstract
Comprehensively understanding the distribution, driving forces and ecological risk of microplastics (MPs) in China's surface water systems is crucial for future prevention and control of MPs pollution, particularly in the context of regional differences. Nevertheless, traditionally localized investigation and the limited MPs data availability hinder more comprehensive estimation of MPs pollution in surface water systems of China. This study presents a robust dataset, which consists of 14285 samples from 32 provincial districts, describing the MPs pollution characteristics using a data mining method combined with a machine learning model. The results show that the developed model has high accuracy in predicting the abundance, colors, shapes, and polymer types of MPs, with the coefficient of determination (R2) ranging from 0.825 to 0.978. MPs abundance varied greatly in China's surface water systems, ranging over 1-5 orders of magnitude due to the complex influence of anthropogenic activities and natural conditions. Human activities and natural conditions mutually impact the dynamics of MPs in China's surface water systems. Watersheds in almost all provinces of China are contaminated by high and extremely high ecological risk levels, highlighting the urgency for sustainable MPs management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xufei Liu
- College of Water Resources and Architecture Engineering, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China
| | - Lin Zhang
- College of Water Resources and Architecture Engineering, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China; Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China; Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Chinese Academy of Sciences & Ministry of Water Resources, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China.
| | - Yaqing Du
- College of Water Resources and Architecture Engineering, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China
| | - Xue Yang
- Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, Chinese Academy of Sciences & Ministry of Water Resources, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China
| | - Xuefei He
- College of Water Resources and Architecture Engineering, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China
| | - Jiasen Zhang
- College of Water Resources and Architecture Engineering, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China
| | - Bokun Jia
- College of Water Resources and Architecture Engineering, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, Shaanxi 712100, PR China
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12
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Miao L, Jin Z, Ci H, Adyel TM, Deng X, You G, Xu Y, Wu J, Yao Y, Kong M, Hou J. Dynamic changes of leachates of aged plastic debris under different suspended sand concentrations and their toxicity. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2025; 485:136874. [PMID: 39700944 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.136874] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2024] [Revised: 12/04/2024] [Accepted: 12/12/2024] [Indexed: 12/21/2024]
Abstract
Plastic pollution in aquatic environments poses significant ecological risks, particularly through released leachates. While traditional or non-biodegradable plastics (non-BPs) are well-studied, biodegradable plastics (BPs) have emerged as alternatives that are designed to degrade more rapidly within the environment. However, research on the ecological risks of the leachates from aged BPs in aquatic environments is scarce. This controlled laboratory study investigated the leachate release processes and associated toxicity of traditional non-BPs, i.e., polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polypropylene (PP) and BPs, i.e., polylactic acid (PLA) combined with polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) and starch-based plastic (SBP) under different aging time and suspended sand concentrations (0, 50, 100, 250, and 500 mg/L). The results indicated that BPs release significantly higher levels of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) than those of non-BPs, particularly at elevated suspended sand concentrations. The DOC concentrations in PLA+PBAT leachate reached 2.69 mg/L, surpassing those of PET and PP. Additionally, BPs released organic matter of larger molecular weight and protein-like substances. Toxicity tests showed that leachates from BPs inhibited the activity of Daphnia magna more than those from non-BPs. At a suspended sand concentration of 500 mg/L, PLA+PBAT leachate caused a 30 % inhibitory rate of Daphnia magna. Despite enhanced degradability, leachates from BPs may pose increased environmental risks in ecosystems with high suspended sand concentrations. Comprehensive ecological risk assessments are essential for effectively managing and mitigating these hazards of plastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingzhan Miao
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Zhuoyi Jin
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Hanlin Ci
- Shanghai Investigation, Design & Research Institute Co., Ltd., Shanghai 200434, PR China
| | - Tanveer M Adyel
- Centre for Nature Positive Solutions, School of Science, RMIT University, Melbourne, VIC 3000, Australia
| | - Xiaoya Deng
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Guoxiang You
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Yi Xu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Jun Wu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
| | - Yu Yao
- School of Environment, Nanjing Normal University, Nanjing 210023, PR China.
| | - Ming Kong
- Nanjing Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Nanjing 210042, PR China
| | - Jun Hou
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resources Development on Shallow Lakes, Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, PR China
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13
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Qiao K, Wang WX. Breaking the coastal barrier: Typhoons convert estuarine mangroves into sources of microplastics to the ocean. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2025; 485:136802. [PMID: 39657494 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.136802] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/15/2024] [Revised: 11/17/2024] [Accepted: 12/04/2024] [Indexed: 12/12/2024]
Abstract
Estuarine mangroves are crucial for trapping microplastics and contributing to coastal protection; however, their effectiveness during extreme weather events remains unclear. This study investigated the effects of typhoons on microplastic dynamics within the watershed-estuary-offshore system and the changes in the role of estuarine mangroves. Surface water from the Shenzhen River and sediments from estuarine mangroves were sampled after typhoons (Saola and Haikui) and during periods of stable hydrodynamic conditions. Our findings indicated that after typhoons, the microplastic content in estuarine water was the lowest at 363 n/m³ compared to upstream and downstream locations, while it was the highest at 812 n/m³ during the dry season. Additionally, microplastic abundance in sediments was higher during low-flow conditions (11,153 n/kg) than after typhoons (1134 n/kg), with only about 10 % retained. Considering river flow, the microplastic flux in the estuary during the typhoon season reached its highest value of 21,816 n/s, indicating that riverine microplastics could be washed downstream and diluted due to increased flow. Polypropylene was the dominant type of microplastic (29.9 %), while synthetic rubber also accounted for a significant proportion, especially after typhoons, likely due to traffic from vehicles and boats around the watershed. Correlation analyses revealed that strong hydrodynamic forces led to a more uniform distribution of microplastics along the river, re-releasing those deposited in estuarine mangroves during the dry season and contributing to marine microplastic pollution. This study highlights how extreme weather shifts urban estuarine mangroves from microplastic sinks to sources, providing new insights into pollution dynamics under climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Qiao
- Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, PR China
| | - Wen-Xiong Wang
- Research Centre for the Oceans and Human Health, City University of Hong Kong, Shenzhen Research Institute, Shenzhen 518057, PR China; School of Energy and Environment and State Key Laboratory of Marine Pollution, City University of Hong Kong, Kowloon, Hong Kong.
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14
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Ullah F, Wang PY, Saqib S, Zhao L, Ashraf M, Khan A, Khan W, Khan A, Chen Y, Xiong YC. Toxicological complexity of microplastics in terrestrial ecosystems. iScience 2025; 28:111879. [PMID: 39995877 PMCID: PMC11848805 DOI: 10.1016/j.isci.2025.111879] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/26/2025] Open
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), defined as plastic debris, smaller than <5 mm, are viewed as persistent contaminants that significantly modify terrestrial ecosystems and biodiversity by altering soil microbiota, structure, and functions. This paper summarizes MPs' interactions with various pollutants, including heavy metals and pesticides, also addressing socio-economic impacts, such as reduced agricultural yields and threats to regional fisheries. The study emphasizes the need for an on the basis of waste management model to mitigate these effects, advocating for collaborative efforts among stakeholders. Also, interdisciplinary studies incorporating material sciences, ecology, and environmental policy are essential to confront the challenges of MPs to ecological services. Additionally, the review highlights how MPs can serve as vectors for toxins to damage soil health and species survival. The overview underscores a complex interplay between environmental and socio-economic systems, addressing the urgency of harnessing MPs pollution and protecting ecosystem integrity and sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fazal Ullah
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, College of Ecology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
- College of Life Sciences, Northwest Normal University, Lanzhou 730070, China
| | - Peng-Yang Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, College of Ecology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Saddam Saqib
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, College of Ecology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Ling Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, College of Ecology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Muhammad Ashraf
- Institute of Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, The University of Lahore, Lahore 54000, Pakistan
| | - Aziz Khan
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, College of Ecology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Wasim Khan
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, College of Ecology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Adnan Khan
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, College of Ecology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
| | - Yinglong Chen
- The UWA Institute of Agriculture, and School of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Western Australia, Perth, WA 6001, Australia
| | - You-Cai Xiong
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, College of Ecology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730000, China
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15
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Nafea TH, Shun Chan FK, Xu Y, Xiao H, He J. Unveiling the seasonal transport and exposure risks of atmospheric microplastics in the southern area of the Yangtze River Delta, China. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2025; 367:125567. [PMID: 39710180 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.125567] [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: 10/20/2024] [Revised: 12/17/2024] [Accepted: 12/19/2024] [Indexed: 12/24/2024]
Abstract
This study investigates the prevalence and impacts of suspended atmospheric microplastics (SAMPs) in the coastal metropolitan city of Ningbo in the Yangtze River Delta Region, China. The sampling was conducted at both urban centre and urban-rural fringe areas, near the coast but distant from large urban populations. SAMP abundance ranged from 0.017 to 0.430 items m-³, with an average of 0.145 ± 0.09 items m⁻³. The urban centre exhibited approximately 70% more SAMPs than the urban-rural fringe, highlighting the influence of population density and human activity on microplastic pollution. Fibres dominated SAMP composition at both sites, while urban samples featured a greater variety of microplastic forms, such as fragments, beads, and films. Rayon and Polyethylene terephthalate were the predominant polymers, which were found to be directly related to local industrial activities. SAMPs ranged in size from 20 μm to 4984.4 μm, with over 60% smaller than 1000 μm. Seasonal variation followed a winter > autumn > spring > summer pattern. Correlation and principal component analyses identified atmospheric temperature, pressure, wind speed, and rainfall as key factors influencing SAMP abundance. Notably, backward trajectory analysis showed that oceanic air masses carried significantly fewer SAMPs compared to terrestrial air, diluting concentrations in coastal regions. Annually, an estimated 4.67 × 101³ microplastics are suspended over Ningbo. This is the first comprehensive study of SAMP pollution in this region, revealing interactions between local sources, environmental variations, air mass dynamics, and exposure. The findings underscore the need for targeted strategies to mitigate atmospheric microplastic pollution in coastal urban environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taiseer Hussain Nafea
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Nottingham Ningbo China, Ningbo, China; Center for Excellence in Regional Atmospheric Environment, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, China
| | - Faith Ka Shun Chan
- School of Geographical Sciences, University of Nottingham Ningbo China, Ningbo, China
| | - Yuyao Xu
- Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Ningbo Monitoring Station, Ningbo, China
| | - Hang Xiao
- Center for Excellence in Regional Atmospheric Environment, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, China.
| | - Jun He
- Department of Chemical and Environmental Engineering, University of Nottingham Ningbo China, Ningbo, China; Nottingham Ningbo China Beacons of Excellence Research and Innovation Institute, Ningbo, China.
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16
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Singh J, Yadav BK, Krause S. Spatiotemporal distribution and ecological hazards of microplastic pollution in soil water resources around a wastewater treatment plant and municipal solid waste site. JOURNAL OF CONTAMINANT HYDROLOGY 2025; 269:104515. [PMID: 39933252 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconhyd.2025.104515] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2024] [Revised: 01/28/2025] [Accepted: 02/05/2025] [Indexed: 02/13/2025]
Abstract
Research into the relative contributions of microplastic (MP) sources to aquatic and terrestrial environments is essential for understanding their fate and transport which is a prerequisite for designing effective pollution management strategies. This study explores the spatial distribution, seasonal variations, and ecological hazards of MPs in surface water, groundwater, soil, sediment, and leachate matrices adjacent to municipal solid waste (MSW) and sewage treatment plant (STP) sites in Northern India. Elevated MP concentrations were observed in leachate (283.22 ± 15.78 particles/L; pre-monsoon), whereas groundwater exhibited significantly reduced levels (10.75 ± 2.04 particles/L; pre-monsoon), indicating the attenuation efficiency and filtration potential of the subsurface zone. Seasonal variations revealed a dilution effect from monsoonal runoff, reducing MP concentrations. The identified MP shapes were predominantly fibers, followed by fragments, with transparent particles being the most common. The size distribution was dominated by smaller MPs (<0.3 mm), which exhibited a positive correlation with overall MP concentrations. The polymer types of MPs identified in the samples categorise the polymer hazard index (PHI) as a hazard level V (>1000) in all the samples indicating a high chemical risk in both the seasons. Similarly, the principal component analysis (PCA) revealed MP hotspots, particularly in soils near the MSW site, with concentrations reaching 53,580 ± 720 particles/kg emphasizing the vulnerability of terrestrial systems. This research highlights the importance of implementing effective waste management practices and provides valuable insights into the fate and transport of MPs by presenting strong evidence of MP movement from typical MSW/STP sites into adjacent land and water resources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jaswant Singh
- Department of Hydrology, Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee, India
| | | | - Stefan Krause
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Edgbaston, Birmingham B15 2TT, United Kingdom; Univ Lyon, Université Lyon 1 Claude Bernard, ENTPE, CNRS, UMR 5023 LEHNA, 3 Rue M. Audin, Vaulx-en-Velin Cedex 69518, France
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17
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Priyanto A, Hapidin DA, Edikresnha D, Aji MP, Khairurrijal K. Predicting microplastic quantities in Indonesian provincial rivers using machine learning models. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2025; 961:178411. [PMID: 39793133 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2025.178411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/21/2024] [Revised: 01/03/2025] [Accepted: 01/05/2025] [Indexed: 01/13/2025]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution has surfaced as a critical environmental concern, affecting ecosystems and human health globally. This study explored the application of several machine learning models, including the Tree algorithm, k-Nearest Neighbors (kNN), Random Forest (RF), Linear Regression (LR), Support Vector Machine (SVM), and Neural Networks (NN), to predict microplastic concentrations in the rivers of Indonesia's 24 provinces. By utilizing both environmental and anthropogenic data, the Tree algorithm exhibited the best performance, achieving a coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.838 and a mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of 0.242 on unseen testing data, thereby highlighting strong predictive capability. Key variables influencing microplastic abundance included annual average temperature, gross domestic product (GDP) per capita and population density. The results underscored the necessity of utilizing comprehensive datasets for effective modeling and highlighted the potential of machine learning to enhance environmental monitoring efforts. This research provides critical insights for policymakers and stakeholders aiming to address the growing issue of microplastic pollution in freshwater systems, providing a foundation for the development of more effective environmental management strategies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aan Priyanto
- Research Group of Physics and Technology of Advanced Materials, Department of Physics, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Jalan Ganesa No. 10, Bandung, Jawa Barat 40132, Indonesia; Doctoral Program of Physics, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Jalan Ganesa No. 10, Bandung, Jawa Barat 40132, Indonesia
| | - Dian Ahmad Hapidin
- Research Group of Physics and Technology of Advanced Materials, Department of Physics, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Jalan Ganesa No. 10, Bandung, Jawa Barat 40132, Indonesia
| | - Dhewa Edikresnha
- Research Group of Physics and Technology of Advanced Materials, Department of Physics, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Jalan Ganesa No. 10, Bandung, Jawa Barat 40132, Indonesia
| | - Mahardika Prasetya Aji
- Department of Physics, Universitas Negeri Semarang, Jalan Taman Siswa, Sekaran, Gunungpati Semarang, Central Java 50229, Indonesia
| | - Khairurrijal Khairurrijal
- Research Group of Physics and Technology of Advanced Materials, Department of Physics, Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Institut Teknologi Bandung, Jalan Ganesa No. 10, Bandung, Jawa Barat 40132, Indonesia; Department of Physics, Faculty of Science, Institut Teknologi Sumatera, Jalan Terusan Ryacudu, Lampung Selatan, Lampung 35365, Indonesia.
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18
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Figueredo F, Mosquera-Ortega M, Di Lullo F, Schaumburg F, Susmel S, Cortón E. A smartphone label-free and automated thermo-analytical method based on image analysis to detect microplastics. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2025; 958:178114. [PMID: 39708737 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.178114] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/05/2024] [Revised: 11/27/2024] [Accepted: 12/11/2024] [Indexed: 12/23/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are in some ways the expected product of man-made plastics that are considered as a pollutant ubiquitous in the environment. This is particularly notorious in continental waters, along coastlines, and especially in the North Pacific Gyre, sometimes called the Pacific Garbage Patch. Even now, there is growing concern that MPs can harm wildlife, enter the food chain, and end up in the human body. Therefore, the development of new, simpler and easily automated analytical systems is needed to assess the extent of MPs contamination in the environment. In this work, we present a low-cost analytical method capable of identifying, counting, and sizing MPs and differentiating them from non-plastic particles in less than 5 min after performing image-based analysis during a heating ramp between 25 and 220 °C. Using a smartphone and its camera and a dedicated algorithm, semi-crystalline and amorphous MPs such as polyethylene, polypropylene and polystyrene were efficiently identified by determining whether they melt or change size. The method was tested on spiked soil and sand samples as well as on real samples with successful results. A large number of particles can be analyzed simultaneously using an algorithm that eliminates the need for manual operations. The method is presented to be used as the first necessary step to investigate the level of threat (if any) of this new ubiquitous presence.
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Affiliation(s)
- F Figueredo
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioanalysis (LABB), Department of Biological Chemistry, IQUIBICEN, University of Buenos Aires and CONICET, CABA, Argentina.
| | - M Mosquera-Ortega
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioanalysis (LABB), Department of Biological Chemistry, IQUIBICEN, University of Buenos Aires and CONICET, CABA, Argentina; Basic Science Department and Mechanical Engineering Department, Faculty Regional General Pacheco, National Technological University, Argentina; BioAnalytical Chemistry Lab, University of Udine, Department of Agri-food, Environment and Animal Sciences (Di4A), Italy
| | - F Di Lullo
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioanalysis (LABB), Department of Biological Chemistry, IQUIBICEN, University of Buenos Aires and CONICET, CABA, Argentina
| | - F Schaumburg
- INTEC (Universidad Nacional del Litoral - CONICET), Predio CCT CONICET, RN 168, Santa Fe S3000GLN, Argentina
| | - S Susmel
- BioAnalytical Chemistry Lab, University of Udine, Department of Agri-food, Environment and Animal Sciences (Di4A), Italy
| | - E Cortón
- Laboratory of Biosensors and Bioanalysis (LABB), Department of Biological Chemistry, IQUIBICEN, University of Buenos Aires and CONICET, CABA, Argentina
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19
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Matias RS, Monteiro M, Sousa V, Pinho B, Guilhermino L, Valente LMP, Gomes S. A multiple biomarker approach to understand the effects of microplastics on the health status of European seabass farmed in earthen ponds on the NE Atlantic coast. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 263:120208. [PMID: 39442660 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2024.120208] [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: 08/17/2024] [Revised: 10/01/2024] [Accepted: 10/20/2024] [Indexed: 10/25/2024]
Abstract
The occurrence of microplastics (MPs) in aquaculture environments is a growing concern due to their potential negative effects on fish health and, ultimately, on seafood safety. Earthen pond aquaculture, a prevalent aquaculture system worldwide, is typically located in coastal and estuarine areas thus vulnerable to MP contamination. The present study investigated the possible relation between MP levels of European seabass (Dicentrarchus labrax) farmed in an earthen pond and its health status. More precisely, two groups of fish were established based on the lowest and highest number of MPs found collectively in their gastrointestinal tract (GIT), liver, and dorsal muscle: fish with ≤2 MP/g and fish with ≥4 MP/g. The intestinal integrity and oxidative stress biomarkers in the liver and dorsal muscle were evaluated in the established groups. No significant differences in the biometric and organosomatic parameters between groups were observed. The results indicated a significant increase in the number of acid goblet cells (GC) in the rectum of fish with higher MP levels (p = 0.016). Increased acid GC number may constitute a first defence strategy against foreign particles to protect the intestinal epithelium. No significant differences in oxidative stress biomarkers between the two fish groups were observed, namely in the activity of superoxide dismutase, catalase, glutathione reductase, and glutathione S-transferase in the liver, or in lipid peroxidation levels in the liver and dorsal muscle. The overall results suggest that MP levels were possibly related to an intestinal response but its potential implications on the health status of pond-farmed seabass warrant further investigation. Monitoring MP occurrence across stages of aquaculture production could help to elucidate the potential threats of MPs to fish health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ricardo S Matias
- CIIMAR/CIMAR-LA, Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental, Universidade do Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Av. General Norton de Matos, s/n, 4450-208, Matosinhos, Portugal; ICBAS, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - Marta Monteiro
- CIIMAR/CIMAR-LA, Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental, Universidade do Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Av. General Norton de Matos, s/n, 4450-208, Matosinhos, Portugal; ICBAS, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - Vera Sousa
- CIIMAR/CIMAR-LA, Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental, Universidade do Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Av. General Norton de Matos, s/n, 4450-208, Matosinhos, Portugal; ICBAS, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - Bia Pinho
- CIIMAR/CIMAR-LA, Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental, Universidade do Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Av. General Norton de Matos, s/n, 4450-208, Matosinhos, Portugal; ICBAS, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - Lúcia Guilhermino
- CIIMAR/CIMAR-LA, Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental, Universidade do Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Av. General Norton de Matos, s/n, 4450-208, Matosinhos, Portugal; ICBAS, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - Luisa M P Valente
- CIIMAR/CIMAR-LA, Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental, Universidade do Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Av. General Norton de Matos, s/n, 4450-208, Matosinhos, Portugal; ICBAS, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal
| | - Sónia Gomes
- CIIMAR/CIMAR-LA, Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental, Universidade do Porto, Terminal de Cruzeiros do Porto de Leixões, Av. General Norton de Matos, s/n, 4450-208, Matosinhos, Portugal; ICBAS, Instituto de Ciências Biomédicas Abel Salazar, Universidade do Porto, Rua de Jorge Viterbo Ferreira 228, 4050-313, Porto, Portugal.
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20
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Zhang S, Sun J, Zhou Q, Feng X, Yang J, Zhao K, Zhang A, Zhang S, Yao Y. Microplastic contamination in Chinese topsoil from 1980 to 2050. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 955:176918. [PMID: 39447912 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.176918] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/04/2024] [Revised: 09/20/2024] [Accepted: 10/12/2024] [Indexed: 10/26/2024]
Abstract
China's soil is experiencing significant microplastic contamination. We developed a machine-learning model to assess microplastic pollution from 1980 to 2050. Our results showed that the average abundance of microplastics in topsoil increased from 45 items per kilogram of soil in 1980 to 1156 items by 2018, primarily due to industrial growth (39 %), agricultural film usage (30 %), tire wear (17 %), and domestic waste (14 %). During the same period, microplastic levels in cropland rose from 98 to 2401 items per kilogram of soil, and exposure levels for the Chinese population increased from 808 to 3168 items per kilogram. By 2050, a reduction in the use of agricultural films is expected to decrease cropland contamination by half. However, overall levels are anticipated to remain steady due to other persistent sources, indicating a continued spread of microplastics into subterranean environments, water bodies, and human systems. This study highlights China's microplastic challenges and suggests potential global trends, emphasizing the need for increased awareness and intervention worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuyou Zhang
- College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210024, China; State Key Laboratory of Soil and Sustainable Agriculture, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jianqiang Sun
- International Joint Research Center for Persistent Toxic Substances, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Qing Zhou
- State Key Laboratory of Soil and Sustainable Agriculture, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xudong Feng
- State Key Laboratory of Soil and Sustainable Agriculture, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Jie Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Soil and Sustainable Agriculture, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Kankan Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Soil and Sustainable Agriculture, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Anping Zhang
- International Joint Research Center for Persistent Toxic Substances, College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China; Key Laboratory of Microbial Technology for Industrial Pollution Control of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310014, China
| | - Songhe Zhang
- College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210024, China
| | - Yijun Yao
- State Key Laboratory of Soil and Sustainable Agriculture, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
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21
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Gupta A, Ghosh A, Yadav A, Kirti A, Lenka SS, Jena S, Saha U, Naser SS, Nandi A, Sinha A, Suar M, Kaushik NK, Raina V, Verma SK. Microplastics: The imperative influencer in blueprint of blue economy. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 372:123300. [PMID: 39550944 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.123300] [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: 07/29/2024] [Revised: 11/01/2024] [Accepted: 11/08/2024] [Indexed: 11/19/2024]
Abstract
The burgeoning issue of microplastic pollution in marine ecosystems has emerged as a significant concern, presently multifaceted difficulty to the sustainability and prosperity of the blue economy. This review examines the intricate link between microplastics (MPs) and the blue economy (BE), exploring how microplastics infiltrate marine environments, their persistence, and their impacts on economic activities reliant on healthy oceans in a global scenario. Diminished seafood quality and quantity, degraded coastal aesthetics affecting tourism revenues, and increased operational costs due to fouling and contamination are among the economic repercussions identified. Additionally, the review discusses the potential long-term consequences on human health and food security, emphasizing the urgency for proactive mitigation measures and policy interventions in the global scenario. The study highlights the interconnectedness of the blue economy and environmental health, prompting a comprehensive strategy to mitigate microplastic pollution. It calls for collaborative efforts among stakeholders, including policymakers, industries, academia, and civil society, to develop innovative strategies for combating microplastic pollution and promoting sustainable blue economic practices. In conclusion, the review stresses the pressing need for concerted action to address microplastic threats to the blue economy, recommending science-based policies, technological innovations, and public awareness campaigns to protect marine ecosystems and ensure the resilience and prosperity of ocean-dependent economic activities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Abha Gupta
- School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, 751024, India
| | - Aishee Ghosh
- School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, 751024, India; Department of Physics and Astronomy, Uppsala University, Box 516, SE-751 20, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Anu Yadav
- School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, 751024, India
| | - Apoorv Kirti
- School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, 751024, India
| | - Sudakshya S Lenka
- School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, 751024, India
| | - Snehasmita Jena
- School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, 751024, India
| | - Utsa Saha
- School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, 751024, India
| | | | - Aditya Nandi
- Department of Physics and Astronomy, Uppsala University, Box 516, SE-751 20, Uppsala, Sweden
| | - Adrija Sinha
- School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, 751024, India
| | - Mrutyunjay Suar
- School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, 751024, India
| | - Nagendra Kumar Kaushik
- Plasma Bioscience Research Center, Department of Electrical and Biological Physics, Kwangwoon University, 01897, Seoul, South Korea.
| | - Vishakha Raina
- School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, 751024, India.
| | - Suresh K Verma
- School of Biotechnology, KIIT University, Bhubaneswar, Odisha, 751024, India.
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22
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Quadroni S, Cesarini G, De Santis V, Galafassi S. Interconnected impacts of water resource management and climate change on microplastic pollution and riverine biocoenosis: A review by freshwater ecologists. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 372:123363. [PMID: 39566213 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.123363] [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: 07/29/2024] [Revised: 11/03/2024] [Accepted: 11/12/2024] [Indexed: 11/22/2024]
Abstract
The relationship between river hydrology and microplastic (MP) pollution is complex: increased discharge does not always mobilize more MPs, but floods can effectively flush out MPs from river catchments. Climate change and water resource management further influence MP pollution and its fate by altering river hydro-sedimentary regimes. This review investigates the interconnected impacts of these factors from a comprehensive perspective, focusing on how they affect MP concentration in freshwater ecosystems, particularly in regulated rivers and associated reservoirs. Our review reveals a scarcity of studies that jointly analyze the interrelated issues of MP pollution, water resource management, and climate change. Key findings indicate that variations in river discharge significantly influence MP mobilization, mainly depending on catchment land use, channel morphology, position within the catchment, and MP characteristics. Reservoirs function as both sinks and sources of MPs, underscoring their complex role in MP dynamics and the need for sustainable sediment management strategies. The increasing frequency of extreme weather events, driven by climate change, along with prolonged droughts intensified by water management practices, exacerbates MP pollution. These changes contribute to the local concentration of MPs, posing direct physical threats to aquatic organisms, particularly benthic species, through pollution and habitat alterations. Current policies on plastic pollution, water resources and climate change are underdeveloped, as these topics have been treated separately so far. In conclusion, this review provides perspectives on future research and policy directions to address challenges posed by MPs and to preserve rivers against multiple stressors.
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Affiliation(s)
- Silvia Quadroni
- Department of Theoretical and Applied Sciences, University of Insubria, 21100, Varese, Italy
| | - Giulia Cesarini
- Water Research Institute, National Research Council of Italy, 28922, Verbania, Pallanza, Italy.
| | - Vanessa De Santis
- Water Research Institute, National Research Council of Italy, 20861, Brugherio, MB, Italy; National Biodiversity Future Center, 90133, Palermo, Italy
| | - Silvia Galafassi
- Water Research Institute, National Research Council of Italy, 28922, Verbania, Pallanza, Italy; National Biodiversity Future Center, 90133, Palermo, Italy
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23
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Khankhuean A, Morimura Y, Ajiro H. Improving the mechanical properties of chitosan through blending with poly(trimethylene carbonate) copolymer. Int J Biol Macromol 2024; 283:137830. [PMID: 39579807 DOI: 10.1016/j.ijbiomac.2024.137830] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/29/2024] [Revised: 11/08/2024] [Accepted: 11/16/2024] [Indexed: 11/25/2024]
Abstract
In this study, a novel flexible material was fabricated by blending chitosan (CS) with a poly(trimethylene carbonate) (PTMC) copolymer. N-methyl-D-glucamine, which acts as a polyol, was grafted onto the PTMC copolymer to produce poly(TMC-co-TMC-glucamine) (PTTG), to enhance the hydrogen bonding interactions. The CS/PTTG blend films were then fabricated using solvent casting. The chemical interactions and thermal properties of the new materials were evaluated using FT-IR and TGA, which revealed a shift in wavenumber and a decrease in T10. Incorporation of PTTG into CS significantly improved tensile strength, reaching up to 16.0 ± 2.6 MPa in the CS75PTTG25 formulation. The flexibility also increased to 55.9 ± 6.6 MPa in the simple blend of CS, PTMC copolymer, and N-methyl-D-glucamine. Additionally, the underlying mechanism is presented and thoroughly explained in this work. Consequently, CS/PTTG blend films, derived from biodegradable polymers with excellent mechanical properties, demonstrate potential for various applications.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anchan Khankhuean
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5, Takayama-cho, Ikoma, Nara, Japan
| | - Yuka Morimura
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5, Takayama-cho, Ikoma, Nara, Japan
| | - Hiroharu Ajiro
- Graduate School of Science and Technology, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5, Takayama-cho, Ikoma, Nara, Japan; Data Science Center, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5, Takayama-cho, Ikoma, Nara, Japan; Medilux Research Center, Nara Institute of Science and Technology, 8916-5, Takayama-cho, Ikoma, Nara, Japan.
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24
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Chukwuka AV, Adegboyegun AD, Oluwale FV, Oni AA, Omogbemi ED, Adeogun AO. Microplastic dynamics and risk projections in West African coastal areas: Developing a vulnerability index, adverse ecological pathways, and mitigation framework using remote-sensed oceanographic profiles. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 953:175963. [PMID: 39226961 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.175963] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/24/2024] [Revised: 08/26/2024] [Accepted: 08/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/05/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution presents a serious risk to marine ecosystems worldwide, with West Africa being especially susceptible. This study sought to identify the key factors driving microplastic dynamics in the region. Using NASA's Giovanni system, we analyzed environmental data from 2019 to 2024. Results showed uniform offshore air temperatures due to turbulence (25.22-45.62 K) with significant variations nearshore. Salinity levels remained largely stable (4 PSU) but slightly decreased in southern Nigeria. Surface wind speeds rose from 4.206-5.026 m/s in Nigeria to over 5.848 m/s off Mauritania, while eastward stress hotspots were prominent in Nigeria and from Sierra Leone to Senegal. Photosynthetically available radiation (PAR) beam values peaked off Mauritania and dipped from Nigeria to Sierra Leone, with the inverse pattern observed for diffuse PAR. Hotspots of high absorption, particulate backscattering, elevated aerosol optical depth, and remote sensing reflectance all pointed to substantial particulate matter concentrations. The Microplastic Vulnerability Index (MVI) identifies the coastal stretch from Nigeria to Guinea-Bissau as highly vulnerable to microplastic accumulation due to conditions that favor buildup. In contrast, moderate vulnerability was observed from Guinea-Bissau to Senegal and in Mauritania, where conditions were less extreme, such as higher offshore temperatures that could promote widespread microplastic suspension and cooler nearshore temperatures that favor sedimentation. Increased turbulence and temperatures in coastal areas of Senegal and Mauritania may enhance microplastic transport and impact marine life. In Nigeria, stable coastal conditions-characterized by consistent temperatures, low turbulence, and uniform salinity-may lead to increased persistence and accumulation of microplastics in sensitive habitats like mangroves and coral reefs. These findings highlight the need for region-specific management strategies to address microplastic pollution and effectively protect marine ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Azubuike Victor Chukwuka
- Environmental Quality Control Department, National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), Osun State, Nigeria.
| | - Ayotunde Daniel Adegboyegun
- Environmental Quality Control Department, National Environmental Standards and Regulations Enforcement Agency (NESREA), Osun State, Nigeria
| | - Femi V Oluwale
- Zoology Department, University of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | - Adeola A Oni
- Zoology Department, University of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria
| | | | - Aina O Adeogun
- Zoology Department, University of Ibadan, Oyo State, Nigeria.
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25
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Liao Z, Zou Q, Vinh VD, Pan Z, Kaiser MJ. Seasonal change in fate and transport of plastics from Red River to the coast of Vietnam. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 208:116923. [PMID: 39265312 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116923] [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: 07/08/2024] [Revised: 08/27/2024] [Accepted: 08/30/2024] [Indexed: 09/14/2024]
Abstract
A Lagrangian-particle tracking model, Delft3D-PART, combined with hydrodynamics models are used to investigate the fate and transport of buoyant plastics from Ba Lat river mouth in Red River Delta, northern Vietnam. It was found that during the dry season (Dec-Feb), 23 % (26.43 ton) of the plastics reached the shoreline while 76.1 % (68.3 ton) moved towards the coast further south of Red River Delta. During the wet season (Jun-Aug), 42 % (56.3 ton) were transported offshore away from the coast and 20 % (26.43 ton) distributed along the shore. The two bays adjacent to the river mouth are major hotspots with the intensity skewed towards the upwind side relative to the seasonal monsoon. This phenomenon is exacerbated by storm events which reverse the typical transport and lead to formation of hotspots at the upwind side of the plastic source. Guidance of model results for targeted cleanup operations is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiling Liao
- The Lyell Centre for Earth and Marine Science and Technology, Institute for Infrastructure and Environment, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, UK
| | - Qingping Zou
- The Lyell Centre for Earth and Marine Science and Technology, Institute for Infrastructure and Environment, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, UK.
| | - Vu Duy Vinh
- Institute of Marine Environment and Resources, Vietnamese Academy of Science and Technology (VAST), 246 Danang Street, Haiphong City, Viet Nam
| | - Zhong Pan
- Third Institute of Oceanography, Ministry of Natural Resources, Daxue Road 178, Xiamen 361005, China
| | - Michel J Kaiser
- The Lyell Centre for Earth and Marine Science and Technology, Heriot-Watt University, Edinburgh EH14 4AS, UK
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26
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Rodríguez Pirani LS, Picone AL, Costa AJ, Silvestri GE, Berman AL, Sznaider F, Romano RM, Vila LG, Ulrich AG, Curtosi A, Vodopivez C. Airborne microplastic pollution detected in the atmosphere of the South Shetland Islands in Antarctica. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 368:143762. [PMID: 39551197 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.143762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2024] [Revised: 11/06/2024] [Accepted: 11/15/2024] [Indexed: 11/19/2024]
Abstract
Plastic pollution has emerged as a growing environmental concern, affecting even the most remote regions of the planet as the Antarctic continent, endangering its ecosystem and contributing to climate change. In this context, a continuous atmospheric microplastics monitoring study was conducted at Carlini Argentine Antarctic Station located in the southwest of 25 de Mayo (King George) Island (South Shetlands). Passive samplers were installed at three locations throughout the station, chosen based on the intensity of human activity and proved to be effective in collecting atmospheric particles over a one-year study period. Micro-FTIR and micro-Raman spectroscopies were used to characterize the suspected microplastic particles. These techniques revealed a wide variety of plastic polymers compositions and industrial dyes associated with textile and plastic materials. Microfibers were found to be the predominant particle form, constituting approximately 80% of the particles detected at each sampling point. Semi-synthetic cotton, polyester, and polyamide were widely detected, along with other plastic compositions. Micro-Raman spectroscopy confirmed the presence of indigo blue, reactive blue 238, and copper phthalocyanine on both synthetic and semi-synthetic fibers, representing the first report of these types of anthropogenic pigments in the Antarctic atmosphere. The results suggest a significant role of short-range transport from local human activities; however, the potential influence of large-scale atmospheric patterns should also be evaluated. Our findings highlight the need to expand the monitoring network to additional scientific stations and remote regions with minimal human activity. Increasing the number of observational sites and conducting complementary studies on airborne dispersion will strengthen assessments of potential long-range pollution sources.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lucas S Rodríguez Pirani
- CEQUINOR (UNLP, CCT-CONICET La Plata, associated with CIC), Departamento de Química, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Boulevard 120 N° 1465, La Plata (1900), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - A Lorena Picone
- CEQUINOR (UNLP, CCT-CONICET La Plata, associated with CIC), Departamento de Química, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Boulevard 120 N° 1465, La Plata (1900), Buenos Aires, Argentina.
| | - Alfredo J Costa
- Instituto Antártico Argentino (IAA/DNA), 25 de Mayo N° 1143, San Martín (1650), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Gabriel E Silvestri
- Centro de Investigaciones del Mar y la Atmósfera (CIMA). CONICET-UBA. Instituto Franco-Argentino de Estudios sobre el Clima y sus Impactos (IFAECI)-IRL 3351-CNRS-CONICET-IRD-UBA. Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Ana Laura Berman
- Centro de Investigaciones del Mar y la Atmósfera (CIMA). CONICET-UBA. Instituto Franco-Argentino de Estudios sobre el Clima y sus Impactos (IFAECI)-IRL 3351-CNRS-CONICET-IRD-UBA. Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Frank Sznaider
- CIHIDECAR-Centro de Investigaciones en Hidratos de Carbono (UBA, CONICET), Departamento de Química Orgánica, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas y Naturales, Universidad de Buenos Aires, Ciudad Universitaria (C1428EGA) Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Rosana M Romano
- CEQUINOR (UNLP, CCT-CONICET La Plata, associated with CIC), Departamento de Química, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Universidad Nacional de La Plata, Boulevard 120 N° 1465, La Plata (1900), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Luis G Vila
- Instituto Antártico Argentino (IAA/DNA), 25 de Mayo N° 1143, San Martín (1650), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Alejandro G Ulrich
- Instituto Antártico Argentino (IAA/DNA), 25 de Mayo N° 1143, San Martín (1650), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Antonio Curtosi
- Instituto Antártico Argentino (IAA/DNA), 25 de Mayo N° 1143, San Martín (1650), Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Cristian Vodopivez
- Instituto Antártico Argentino (IAA/DNA), 25 de Mayo N° 1143, San Martín (1650), Buenos Aires, Argentina
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27
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Bi S, Liu S, Liu E, Xiong J, Xu Y, Wu R, Liu X, Xu J. Adsorption behavior and mechanism of heavy metals onto microplastics: A meta-analysis assisted by machine learning. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 360:124634. [PMID: 39084591 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124634] [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: 06/03/2024] [Revised: 07/16/2024] [Accepted: 07/27/2024] [Indexed: 08/02/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) have the potential to adsorb heavy metals (HMs), resulting in a combined pollution threat in aquatic and terrestrial environments. However, due to the complexity of MP/HM properties and experimental conditions, research on the adsorption of HMs onto MPs often yields inconsistent findings. To address this issue, we conducted a comprehensive meta-analysis assisted with machine learning by analyzing a dataset comprising 3340 records from 134 references. The results indicated that polyamide (PA) (ES = -1.26) exhibited the highest adsorption capacity for commonly studied HMs (such as Pb, Cd, Cu, and Cr), which can be primarily attributed to the presence of C=O and N-H groups. In contrast, polyvinyl chloride (PVC) demonstrated a lower adsorption capacity, but the strongest adsorption strength resulting from the halogen atom on its surface. In terms of HMs, metal cations were more readily adsorbed by MPs compared with metalloids and metal oxyanions, with Pb (ES = -0.78) exhibiting the most significant adsorption. As the pH and temperature increased, the adsorption of HMs initially increased and subsequently decreased. Using a random forest model, we accurately predicted the adsorption capacity of MPs based on MP/HM properties and experimental conditions. The main factors affecting HM adsorption onto MPs were HM and MP concentrations, specific surface area of MP, and pH. Additionally, surface complexation and electrostatic interaction were the predominant mechanisms in the adsorption of Pb and Cd, with surface functional groups being the primary factors affecting the mechanism of MPs. These findings provide a quantitative summary of the interactions between MPs and HMs, contributing to our understanding of the environmental behavior and ecological risks associated with their correlation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuangshuang Bi
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250358, PR China
| | - Shuangfeng Liu
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250358, PR China
| | - Enfeng Liu
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250358, PR China
| | - Juan Xiong
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Soil Health and Green Remediation, College of Resources and Environment, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, PR China
| | - Yun Xu
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Soil Health and Green Remediation, College of Resources and Environment, Huazhong Agricultural University, Wuhan, 430070, PR China
| | - Ruoying Wu
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250358, PR China
| | - Xiang Liu
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250358, PR China
| | - Jinling Xu
- College of Geography and Environment, Shandong Normal University, Jinan, 250358, PR China.
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28
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Sunil S, Bhagwat G, Vincent SGT, Palanisami T. Microplastics and climate change: the global impacts of a tiny driver. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 946:174160. [PMID: 38909818 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174160] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2024] [Revised: 06/13/2024] [Accepted: 06/18/2024] [Indexed: 06/25/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution and climate change, the two seemingly distinct phenomena of global concern, are interconnected through various pathways. The connecting links between the two include the biological carbon pumps in the oceans, the sea ice, the plastisphere involved in biogeochemical cycling and the direct emissions of greenhouse gases from microplastics. On one hand, the presence of microplastics in the water column disrupts the balance of the natural carbon sequestration by affecting the key players in the pumping of carbon, such as the phytoplankton and zooplankton. On the other hand, the effect of microplastics on the sea ice in Polar Regions is two-way, as the ice caps are transformed into sinks and sources of microplastics and at the same time, the microplastics can enhance the melting of ice by reducing the albedo. Microplastics may have more potential than larger plastic fragments to release greenhouse gases (GHGs). Microbe-mediated emission of GHGs from soils is also now altered by the microplastics present in the soil. Plastisphere, the emerging microbiome in aquatic environments, can also contribute to climate change as it hosts complex networks of microbes, many of which are involved in greenhouse gas production. To combat a global stressor like climate change, it needs to be addressed with a holistic approach and this begins with tracing the various stressors like microplastic pollution that can aggravate the impacts of climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Syama Sunil
- Department of Environmental Sciences, University of Kerala, Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala 695034, India
| | - Geetika Bhagwat
- Global Innovative Centre for Advanced Nanomaterials (GICAN), School of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | | | - Thava Palanisami
- Global Innovative Centre for Advanced Nanomaterials (GICAN), School of Engineering, Science and Environment, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
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29
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Mohsen M, Lin J, Lu K, Wang L, Zhang C. Microplastic pollution in aquafeed of diverse aquaculture animals. Heliyon 2024; 10:e37370. [PMID: 39296156 PMCID: PMC11408773 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e37370] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2024] [Revised: 08/30/2024] [Accepted: 09/02/2024] [Indexed: 09/21/2024] Open
Abstract
Microplastics have emerged as pervasive contaminants, and determining their occurrence in aquafeed is key for evaluating their risks to farmed animals and, by extension, humans. However, knowledge about microplastic in aquafeed is still limited. Herein, we determined microplastic characteristics in aquafeed for five important aquaculture animals with different feeding habits. Aquafeed samples were collected for spotted sea bass, shrimp, grass carp, Tilapia, and frogs from main companies in China. The samples were digested using chemical digestion, and the residuals were subjected to a density separation. Microplastics were identified under the microscope and characterized by their shape, color, size, and polymer type. The results showed that microplastics are highly abundant in the feed of frogs, followed by spotted sea bass, Tilapia, grass carp, and shrimp. We found that feed size contributes to the total microplastic abundance in the feed. Further, microplastics were mainly in microfiber form, and the dominant polymer type was propylene, suggesting that packaging and processing are the main sources of pollution. Additionally, the most abundant size of microplastics was 100-1000 μm. Calculating microplastic ingestion risk, the spotted sea bass had the greatest recorded risk of microplastic ingestion, followed by grass carp, frogs, Tilapia, and shrimp. This study lays a foundational step toward understanding microplastic effects on aquaculture animals and calls for further environmentally relevant laboratory experiments to assess the risk of microplastic ingestion on animals and potential transfer to humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mohamed Mohsen
- Xiamen Key Laboratory for Feed Quality Testing and Safety Evaluation, Fisheries College, Jimei University, Xiamen City, Fujian Province, 361021, PR China
- Department of Fish Production, Faculty of Agriculture, Al-Azhar University, Nasr City, Cairo, 11884, Egypt
| | - Jibin Lin
- Xiamen Key Laboratory for Feed Quality Testing and Safety Evaluation, Fisheries College, Jimei University, Xiamen City, Fujian Province, 361021, PR China
| | - Kangle Lu
- Xiamen Key Laboratory for Feed Quality Testing and Safety Evaluation, Fisheries College, Jimei University, Xiamen City, Fujian Province, 361021, PR China
| | - Ling Wang
- Xiamen Key Laboratory for Feed Quality Testing and Safety Evaluation, Fisheries College, Jimei University, Xiamen City, Fujian Province, 361021, PR China
| | - Chunxiao Zhang
- Xiamen Key Laboratory for Feed Quality Testing and Safety Evaluation, Fisheries College, Jimei University, Xiamen City, Fujian Province, 361021, PR China
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30
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Daniels D, Berger Eberhardt A. Climate change, microplastics, and male infertility. Curr Opin Urol 2024; 34:366-370. [PMID: 38932480 DOI: 10.1097/mou.0000000000001201] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/28/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW Semen quality is on the decline. While the etiology is unknown, recent literature suggests there may be a relationship between climate change, environmental toxins and male fertility. This review relays new information regarding associations between our environment and male infertility. RECENT FINDINGS Several recent studies have documented a negative association between heat stress and spermatogenesis, which suggests that climate change may be a factor in declining in sperm counts. The influence of particle pollution on spermatogenesis has also been recently investigated, with studies demonstrating a negative association. Another possible factor are microplastics, which have been posited to reduce sperm production. Recent animal studies have shown that microplastic exposure alters both adult sperm production and prenatal male genital development. The relationship between endocrine disrupting chemicals and male fertility remains an area of active study, with recent animal and human studies suggesting an association between these chemicals and male fertility. SUMMARY The etiology of the decline in male fertility over the past decades is yet unknown. However, changes in our environment as seen with climate change and exposure to pollutants and endocrine disrupting chemicals are proposed mechanisms for this decline. Further studies are needed to investigate this association further.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Alexandra Berger Eberhardt
- Member of the Faculty, Harvard Medical School, Associate Surgeon, Brigham and Women's Hospital Department of Urology, Boston, Massachusetts, USA
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31
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Liu F, Deroy C, Herr AE. Microfluidics for macrofluidics: addressing marine-ecosystem challenges in an era of climate change. LAB ON A CHIP 2024; 24:4007-4027. [PMID: 39093009 DOI: 10.1039/d4lc00468j] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/04/2024]
Abstract
Climate change presents a mounting challenge with profound impacts on ocean and marine ecosystems, leading to significant environmental, health, and economic consequences. Microfluidic technologies, with their unique capabilities, play a crucial role in understanding and addressing the marine aspects of the climate crisis. These technologies leverage quantitative, precise, and miniaturized formats that enhance the capabilities of sensing, imaging, and molecular tools. Such advancements are critical for monitoring marine systems under the stress of climate change and elucidating their response mechanisms. This review explores microfluidic technologies employed both in laboratory settings for testing and in the field for monitoring purposes. We delve into the application of miniaturized tools in evaluating ocean-based solutions to climate change, thus offering fresh perspectives from the solution-oriented end of the spectrum. We further aim to synthesize recent developments in technology around critical questions concerning the ocean environment and marine ecosystems, while discussing the potential for future innovations in microfluidic technology. The purpose of this review is to enhance understanding of current capabilities and assist researchers interested in mitigating the effects of climate change to identify new avenues for tackling the pressing issues posed by climate change in marine ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fangchen Liu
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, California 94158, USA.
| | - Cyril Deroy
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, California 94158, USA.
| | - Amy E Herr
- Department of Bioengineering, University of California, Berkeley, California 94158, USA.
- Chan Zuckerberg Biohub, San Francisco, California 94158, USA
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Mendes DS, Silva DNN, Santiago LEP, Gomes VJC, Beasley CR, Fernandes MEB. Comprehensive risk assessment of microplastics in tidal channel sediments in amazonian mangroves (northern Brazil). JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 366:121826. [PMID: 39008928 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.121826] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/20/2024] [Revised: 07/01/2024] [Accepted: 07/08/2024] [Indexed: 07/17/2024]
Abstract
Pollution by microplastics (MPs) in mangroves is a growing concern, given its potential ecological and human health impacts. The characteristics of microplastic pollution and a risk assessment of MPs in the Amazon region's coastal sediments are still insufficient, and information about MP pollution in the benthic component of the mangrove ecosystem is lacking. We analyzed MP concentrations in the surface sediment of 9 stations in three tidal channels along the Ajuruteua Peninsula connected to the Caeté River estuary, aiming to assess the hazard level on the environment based on the Pollution Load Index (PLI). Raman and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy determined the MP's chemical composition. The results showed that the abundance of sediment MPs ranged from 100 to 1200 items kg-1, with an average of 433 ± 261.6 items kg-1. The MPs were mainly composed of transparent and blue fragments and fibers, ranging in size from 100 to 5000 μm. Six types of polymers were identified, including alkyd varnish (AV), resin dispersion (RD), chlorinated polyethylene (CPE), polyethylene-polypropylene (PE-PP), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), and hostaperm blue (HB). Hydrodynamic processes within estuaries and tidal channels play a crucial role in explaining the concentrations found, as circulation determines the pattern of sediment deposition and the particles adhered to it. PLI risk assessment showed that all sampling sites were at hazard level I: a low level of contamination in the mangrove sediments. However, a more comprehensive and systematic monitoring campaign is needed to expand our knowledge about pollution and contamination by MPs in Amazon mangrove areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dayene Santiago Mendes
- Laboratório de Ecologia de Manguezal (LAMA), Instituto de Estudos Costeiros (IECOS), Universidade Federal do Pará (UFPA), Bragança 68600-000, PA, Brazil.
| | - Daniel Nobre Nunes Silva
- Grupo de Pesquisa em Ciência e Engenharia de Meios Porosos (GCEMP), Universidade Federal do Pará (UFPA), Salinópolis 68721-000, PA, Brazil.
| | | | - Vando José Costa Gomes
- Laboratório de Hidráulica Ambiental (HIDROLAB), Faculdade de Engenharia (FAE), Universidade Federal do Pará (UFPA), Salinópolis 68721-000, PA, Brazil.
| | - Colin Robert Beasley
- Laboratório de Conservação da Biodiversidade e das Águas, Instituto de Estudos Costeiros (IECOS), Universidade Federal do Pará (UFPA), Bragança 68600-000, PA, Brazil.
| | - Marcus Emanuel Barroncas Fernandes
- Laboratório de Ecologia de Manguezal (LAMA), Instituto de Estudos Costeiros (IECOS), Universidade Federal do Pará (UFPA), Bragança 68600-000, PA, Brazil.
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Li X, Shen X, Jiang W, Xi Y, Li S. Comprehensive review of emerging contaminants: Detection technologies, environmental impact, and management strategies. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 278:116420. [PMID: 38701654 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/10/2024] [Revised: 04/20/2024] [Accepted: 04/29/2024] [Indexed: 05/05/2024]
Abstract
Emerging contaminants (ECs) are a diverse group of unregulated pollutants increasingly present in the environment. These contaminants, including pharmaceuticals, personal care products, endocrine disruptors, and industrial chemicals, can enter the environment through various pathways and persist, accumulating in the food chain and posing risks to ecosystems and human health. This comprehensive review examines the chemical characteristics, sources, and varieties of ECs. It critically evaluates the current understanding of their environmental and health impacts, highlighting recent advancements and challenges in detection and analysis. The review also assesses existing regulations and policies, identifying shortcomings and proposing potential enhancements. ECs pose significant risks to wildlife and ecosystems by disrupting animal hormones, causing genetic alterations that diminish diversity and resilience, and altering soil nutrient dynamics and the physical environment. Furthermore, ECs present increasing risks to human health, including hormonal disruptions, antibiotic resistance, endocrine disruption, neurological effects, carcinogenic effects, and other long-term impacts. To address these critical issues, the review offers recommendations for future research, emphasizing areas requiring further investigation to comprehend the full implications of these contaminants. It also suggests increased funding and support for research, development of advanced detection technologies, establishment of standardized methods, adoption of precautionary regulations, enhanced public awareness and education, cross-sectoral collaboration, and integration of scientific research into policy-making. By implementing these solutions, we can improve our ability to detect, monitor, and manage ECs, reducing environmental and public health risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xingyu Li
- College of Science, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China; Key Laboratory of Agricultural Emerging Contaminants Prevention and Control, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China.
| | - Xiaojing Shen
- College of Science, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China; Key Laboratory of Agricultural Emerging Contaminants Prevention and Control, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Weiwei Jiang
- College of Science, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China; Key Laboratory of Agricultural Emerging Contaminants Prevention and Control, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Yongkai Xi
- College of Science, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China; Key Laboratory of Agricultural Emerging Contaminants Prevention and Control, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Song Li
- College of Science, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China; Key Laboratory of Agricultural Emerging Contaminants Prevention and Control, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China.
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Liu Z, Liang T, Liu X. Characteristics, distribution patterns and sources of atmospheric microplastics in the Bohai and Yellow Seas, China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 926:171906. [PMID: 38531455 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171906] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/12/2023] [Revised: 03/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/20/2024] [Indexed: 03/28/2024]
Abstract
Although the prevalence of microplastics in the atmosphere has recently received considerable attention, there is little information available regarding the distribution of atmospheric microplastics over oceanic regions. In this study, during the summer and autumn months of 2022, we investigated atmospheric microplastics in four marine regions off the eastern coast of mainland China, namely, the southern, middle, and northern regions of the Yellow Sea, and the Bohai Sea. The abundance of atmospheric microplastics in these regions ranged from 1.65 to 16.80 items/100 m3 during summer and from 0.38 to 14.58 items/100 m3 during autumn, although we detected no significant differences in abundance among these regions. Polyamide, chlorinated polyethylene, and polyethylene terephthalate were identified as the main types of plastic polymer. On the basis of meteorological data and backward trajectory model analyses, we established that the atmospheric microplastics detected during summer were mainly derived from the adjacent marine atmosphere and that over the continental landmass in the vicinity of the sampling area, whereas microplastics detected during autumn appear to have originated mainly from the northeast of China. By influencing the settlement and migration of microplastics, meteorological factors, such as relative humidity and wind speed, were identified as potential factors determining the distribution and characteristics of the detected microplastics. Our findings in this study, revealing the origin and fate of marine atmospheric microplastics, make an important contribution to our current understanding of the distribution and transmission of microplastics within the surveyed region and potentially worldwide.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengjinhao Liu
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Frontiers Science Center for Deep Ocean Multispheres and Earth System, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China; MoE Key Laboratory of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Ting Liang
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Frontiers Science Center for Deep Ocean Multispheres and Earth System, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China; MoE Key Laboratory of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China
| | - Xiaoshou Liu
- College of Marine Life Sciences, Frontiers Science Center for Deep Ocean Multispheres and Earth System, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China; MoE Key Laboratory of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, Institute of Evolution and Marine Biodiversity, Ocean University of China, Qingdao 266003, China.
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Rosso B, Scoto F, Hallanger IG, Larose C, Gallet JC, Spolaor A, Bravo B, Barbante C, Gambaro A, Corami F. Characteristics and quantification of small microplastics (<100 µm) in seasonal svalbard snow on glaciers and lands. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 467:133723. [PMID: 38359761 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133723] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2023] [Revised: 02/01/2024] [Accepted: 02/03/2024] [Indexed: 02/17/2024]
Abstract
Small microplastics (SMPs < 100 µm) can easily be transported over long distances far from their sources through the atmospheric pathways and reach even remote regions, including the Arctic. However, these sizes of MPs are mostly overlooked due to different analytical challenges; besides, their pathways through atmospheric depositions, such as snow depositions, are mostly unknown. The spatial variability in bulk snow samples was investigated for the first time in distinct sites (e.g., glaciers) near Ny Ålesund, the world-known northernmost permanent research settlement in the Svalbard Islands, to better comprehend the presence of SMP pollution in snow. Seasonal snow deposited over the tundra and the summits of different glaciers were also sampled. A sampling procedure was designed to obtain representative samples while minimizing plastic contamination, thanks to rigorous quality assurance and quality control protocol. SMPs' weight (µg SMP L-1) and deposition load (mg SMPs m-2) result from being lower in the remote glaciers, where they may be subject to long-range transport. The SMPs' minimum length was 20 µm, with the majority less than 100 µm. Regarding their size distribution, there was an increase in the size length deriving from the local input of the human presence near the scientific settlement. The presence of some polymers might be site-specific in relation to the pathways that affect their distribution at the sites studied. Also, from the snow surface layer collected at the same sites to evaluate the variability of SMPs during specific atmospheric deposition events, the results confirmed their higher weight and load in surface snow near the scientific settlement compared to the glaciers. The results will enhance the limited knowledge of the SMPs in polar atmospheric compartments and deposition processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beatrice Rosso
- Institute of Polar Sciencies, CNR-ISP, Campus Scientifico Ca' Foscari University, Via Torino 155, 30172 Venezia Mestre, Italy; Department of Environmental Sciences, informatics, and Statistics, Campus Scientifico - Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Venezia-Mestre, Italy
| | - Federico Scoto
- Department of Environmental Sciences, informatics, and Statistics, Campus Scientifico - Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Venezia-Mestre, Italy; Institute of Atmospheric Sciences and Climate, National Research Council, CNR-ISAC, Lecce, Italy
| | | | - Catherine Larose
- Environmental Microbial Genomics, Laboratoire Ampère, École Centrale de Lyon, Université de Lyon, Écully, France
| | | | - Andrea Spolaor
- Institute of Polar Sciencies, CNR-ISP, Campus Scientifico Ca' Foscari University, Via Torino 155, 30172 Venezia Mestre, Italy; Department of Environmental Sciences, informatics, and Statistics, Campus Scientifico - Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Venezia-Mestre, Italy
| | - Barbara Bravo
- Thermo Fisher Scientific, Str. Rivoltana, Km 4, 20090 Rodano, MI, Italy
| | - Carlo Barbante
- Institute of Polar Sciencies, CNR-ISP, Campus Scientifico Ca' Foscari University, Via Torino 155, 30172 Venezia Mestre, Italy; Department of Environmental Sciences, informatics, and Statistics, Campus Scientifico - Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Venezia-Mestre, Italy
| | - Andrea Gambaro
- Department of Environmental Sciences, informatics, and Statistics, Campus Scientifico - Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Venezia-Mestre, Italy
| | - Fabiana Corami
- Institute of Polar Sciencies, CNR-ISP, Campus Scientifico Ca' Foscari University, Via Torino 155, 30172 Venezia Mestre, Italy; Department of Environmental Sciences, informatics, and Statistics, Campus Scientifico - Ca' Foscari University of Venice, Via Torino 155, 30172, Venezia-Mestre, Italy.
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Ranauda MA, Zuzolo D, Maisto M, Tartaglia M, Scarano P, Prigioniero A, Sciarrillo R, Guarino C. Microplastics affect soil-plant system: Implications for rhizosphere biology and fitness of sage (Salvia officinalis L.). ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 346:123656. [PMID: 38408506 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123656] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 02/23/2024] [Accepted: 02/24/2024] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
A mesocosm experiment was set-up to investigate the effects of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) fragments deriving from plastic film on soil ecology, rhizosphere and plant (Salvia officinalis L.) fitness. The internal transcribed spacer (ITS) and 16S metagenomic analysis was adopted to evaluate taxonomic and functional shifts of both soil and rhizosphere under the influence of microplastics (MPs). Photosynthetic parameters and enzymes involved in oxidative stress were assessed to unveil the plant physiological state. MP fragments were analysed by scanning electron microscope (SEM) and metagenomics to investigate the plastisphere. Microbial biomarkers of MPs pollution were identified in soil and rhizosphere, reinforcing the concept of molecular biomonitoring. Overall, Bacillus, Nocardioides and Streptomyces genera are bacterial biomarkers of MPs pollution in soil whereas Aspergillus, Fusarium and Trichoderma genera, and Nectriaceae family are fungal biomarkers of MPs polluted soil. The data show that the presence of MPs promotes the abundance of taxa involved in the soil N cycle, but simultaneously reduces the endophytic interaction capability and enhances pathogen related functions at the rhizosphere level. A significant decrease in chlorophyll levels and increase of oxidative stress enzymes was observed in plants grown in MPs-polluted soil. The SEM observations of MPs fragments revealed a complex colonisation, where bacteria (Bacillus in MPSo and Microvirga in MPRz) and fungi (Aspergillus in MPSo and Trichoderma in MPRz) represent the main colonisers. The results demonstrate that the presence of MPs causes changes in the soil and rhizosphere microbial community and functions leading to negative effects on plant fitness.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maria Antonietta Ranauda
- Department of Science and Technology, University of Sannio, via de Sanctis snc, 82100, Benevento, Italy
| | - Daniela Zuzolo
- Department of Science and Technology, University of Sannio, via de Sanctis snc, 82100, Benevento, Italy.
| | - Maria Maisto
- Department of Science and Technology, University of Sannio, via de Sanctis snc, 82100, Benevento, Italy
| | - Maria Tartaglia
- Department of Science and Technology, University of Sannio, via de Sanctis snc, 82100, Benevento, Italy
| | - Pierpaolo Scarano
- Department of Science and Technology, University of Sannio, via de Sanctis snc, 82100, Benevento, Italy
| | - Antonello Prigioniero
- Department of Science and Technology, University of Sannio, via de Sanctis snc, 82100, Benevento, Italy
| | - Rosaria Sciarrillo
- Department of Science and Technology, University of Sannio, via de Sanctis snc, 82100, Benevento, Italy
| | - Carmine Guarino
- Department of Science and Technology, University of Sannio, via de Sanctis snc, 82100, Benevento, Italy
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37
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Ali N, Khan MH, Ali M, Sidra, Ahmad S, Khan A, Nabi G, Ali F, Bououdina M, Kyzas GZ. Insight into microplastics in the aquatic ecosystem: Properties, sources, threats and mitigation strategies. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 913:169489. [PMID: 38159747 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169489] [Citation(s) in RCA: 56] [Impact Index Per Article: 56.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/28/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
Globally recognized as emergent contaminants, microplastics (MPs) are prevalent in aquaculture habitats and subject to intense management. Aquaculture systems are at risk of microplastic contamination due to various channels, which worsens the worldwide microplastic pollution problem. Organic contaminants in the environment can be absorbed by and interact with microplastic, increasing their toxicity and making treatment more challenging. There are two primary sources of microplastics: (1) the direct release of primary microplastics and (2) the fragmentation of plastic materials resulting in secondary microplastics. Freshwater, atmospheric and marine environments are also responsible for the successful migration of microplastics. Until now, microplastic pollution and its effects on aquaculture habitats remain insufficient. This article aims to provide a comprehensive review of the impact of microplastics on aquatic ecosystems. It highlights the sources and distribution of microplastics, their physical and chemical properties, and the potential ecological consequences they pose to marine and freshwater environments. The paper also examines the current scientific knowledge on the mechanisms by which microplastics affect aquatic organisms and ecosystems. By synthesizing existing research, this review underscores the urgent need for effective mitigation strategies and further investigation to safeguard the health and sustainability of aquatic ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nisar Ali
- Key Laboratory for Palygorskite Science and Applied Technology of Jiangsu Province, National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Mineral Salt Deep Utilization, Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Huaiyin Institute of Technology, Huaian 223003, PR China.
| | - Muhammad Hamid Khan
- Key Laboratory for Palygorskite Science and Applied Technology of Jiangsu Province, National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Mineral Salt Deep Utilization, Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Huaiyin Institute of Technology, Huaian 223003, PR China
| | - Muhammad Ali
- Key Laboratory for Palygorskite Science and Applied Technology of Jiangsu Province, National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Mineral Salt Deep Utilization, Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Huaiyin Institute of Technology, Huaian 223003, PR China
| | - Sidra
- Institute of Chemical Sciences, University of Peshawar, 25120, Pakistan
| | - Shakeel Ahmad
- Key Laboratory for Palygorskite Science and Applied Technology of Jiangsu Province, National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Mineral Salt Deep Utilization, Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Huaiyin Institute of Technology, Huaian 223003, PR China
| | - Adnan Khan
- Key Laboratory for Palygorskite Science and Applied Technology of Jiangsu Province, National & Local Joint Engineering Research Center for Mineral Salt Deep Utilization, Faculty of Chemical Engineering, Huaiyin Institute of Technology, Huaian 223003, PR China; Institute of Chemical Sciences, University of Peshawar, 25120, Pakistan.
| | - Ghulam Nabi
- Institute of Nature Conservation Polish Academy of Sciences Krakow, Poland
| | - Farman Ali
- Department of Chemistry, Hazara University, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Mansehra 21300, Pakistan
| | - Mohamed Bououdina
- Department of Mathematics and Science, Faculty of Humanities and Sciences, Prince Sultan University, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
| | - George Z Kyzas
- Hephaestus Laboratory, Department of Chemistry, School of Science, International Hellenic University, 654 04 Kavala, Greece.
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38
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Lozano YM, Dueñas JF, Zordick C, Rillig MC. Microplastic fibres affect soil fungal communities depending on drought conditions with consequences for ecosystem functions. Environ Microbiol 2024; 26:e16549. [PMID: 38196372 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.16549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics affect soil functions depending on drought conditions. However, how their combined effect influences soil fungi and their linkages with ecosystem functions is still unknown. To address this, we used rhizosphere soil from a previous experiment in which we employed microplastic fibres addition and drought in a factorial design, and evaluated their effects on soil fungal communities. Microplastics decreased soil fungal richness under well-watered conditions, likely linked to microplastics leaching toxic substances into the soil, and microplastic effects on root fineness. Under drought, by contrast, microplastics increased pathogen and total fungal richness, likely related to microplastic positive effects on soil properties, such as water holding capacity, porosity or aggregation. Soil fungal richness was the attribute most affected by microplastics and drought. Microplastics altered the relationships between soil fungi and ecosystem functions to the point that many of them flipped from positive to negative or disappeared. The combined effect of microplastics and drought on fungal richness mitigated their individual negative effect (antagonism), suggesting that changes in soil water conditions may alter the action mode of microplastics in soil. Microplastic leaching of harmful substances can be mitigated under drought, while the improvement of soil properties by microplastics may alleviate such drought conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y M Lozano
- Freie Universität Berlin, Institute of Biology, Plant Ecology, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin-Brandenburg Institute of Advanced Biodiversity Research (BBIB), Berlin, Germany
| | - J F Dueñas
- Freie Universität Berlin, Institute of Biology, Plant Ecology, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin-Brandenburg Institute of Advanced Biodiversity Research (BBIB), Berlin, Germany
| | - C Zordick
- Freie Universität Berlin, Institute of Biology, Plant Ecology, Berlin, Germany
| | - M C Rillig
- Freie Universität Berlin, Institute of Biology, Plant Ecology, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin-Brandenburg Institute of Advanced Biodiversity Research (BBIB), Berlin, Germany
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39
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Saha SC, Saha G. Effect of microplastics deposition on human lung airways: A review with computational benefits and challenges. Heliyon 2024; 10:e24355. [PMID: 38293398 PMCID: PMC10826726 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2024.e24355] [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: 07/12/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 01/08/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024] Open
Abstract
Microplastics have become omnipresent in the environment, including the air we inhale, the water we consume, and the food we eat. Despite limited research, the accumulation of microplastics within the human respiratory system has garnered considerable interest because of its potential implications for health. This review offers a comprehensive examination of the impacts stemming from the accumulation of microplastics on human lung airways and explores the computational benefits and challenges associated with studying this phenomenon. The existence of microplastics in the respiratory system can lead to a range of adverse effects. Research has indicated that microplastics can induce inflammation, oxidative stress, and impaired lung function. Furthermore, the small size of microplastics allows them to penetrate deep into the lungs, reaching the alveoli, where gas exchange takes place. This raises concerns about long-term health consequences, such as the development of respiratory diseases and the potential for translocation to other organs. Computational approaches have been instrumental in understanding the impact of microplastic deposition on human lung airways. Computational models and simulations enable the investigation of particle dynamics, deposition patterns, and interaction mechanisms at various levels of complexity. However, studying microplastics in the lung airways using computational methods presents several challenges. The complex anatomy and physiological processes of the respiratory system require accurate representation in computational models. Obtaining relevant data for model validation and parameterization remains a significant hurdle. Additionally, the diverse nature of microplastics, including variations in size, shape, and chemical composition, poses challenges in capturing their full range of behaviours and potential toxicological effects.
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Affiliation(s)
- Suvash C. Saha
- School of Mechanical and Mechatronic Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, NSW, 2007, Australia
| | - Goutam Saha
- Department of Mathematics, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, 1000, Bangladesh
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