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Baak JE, Hanifen KE, Maddox ML, Mallory ML, Elliott KH, Keegan S, Provencher JF. Decades of monitoring plastic pollution in seabirds in Canada: Spatial, temporal, and methodological insights. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 206:116800. [PMID: 39096865 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116800] [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: 01/21/2024] [Revised: 07/19/2024] [Accepted: 07/30/2024] [Indexed: 08/05/2024]
Abstract
Plastic ingestion by seabirds is an increasing issue worldwide, yet species can vary in ingestion based on ecological and morphological differences. This provokes the ecological question of which species are better suited to monitor plastic ingestion across regions and time. In Canada, we examined plastic ingestion in sympatric northern fulmars (Fulmarus glacialis), black-legged kittiwakes (Rissa tridactyla), thick-billed murres (Uria lomvia), and black guillemots (Cepphus grylle). Here, we present new data and compare to historical work to inform plastic pollution monitoring in Canada. In 2021, 51 % of fulmars, 7 % of kittiwakes and 7 % of murres contained plastic, whereas guillemots had no pieces >1 mm. Regardless of the methods used to collect and process samples, fulmars continue to have low levels of ingestion compared to the European Arctic, but high levels compared to other species in the Canadian Arctic, emphasizing their continued utility as a monitoring tool for plastic pollution in Canada.
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Affiliation(s)
- Julia E Baak
- Department of Natural Resource Sciences, McGill University, Sainte Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec H9X 3V9, Canada; Environment and Climate Change Canada, Iqaluit, Nunavut X0A 3H0, Canada.
| | - Kristine E Hanifen
- Department of Biology, Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia B4P 2R6, Canada
| | - Mark L Maddox
- Department of Biology, Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia B4P 2R6, Canada
| | - Mark L Mallory
- Department of Biology, Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia B4P 2R6, Canada
| | - Kyle H Elliott
- Department of Natural Resource Sciences, McGill University, Sainte Anne-de-Bellevue, Quebec H9X 3V9, Canada
| | - Shane Keegan
- Department of Biology, Acadia University, Wolfville, Nova Scotia B4P 2R6, Canada
| | - Jennifer F Provencher
- Environment and Climate Change Canada, National Wildlife Research Centre, Carleton University, Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0H3, Canada
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2
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Kibria G. Contamination of coastal and marine bird species with plastics: Global analysis and synthesis. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 206:116687. [PMID: 39024909 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116687] [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: 06/10/2024] [Revised: 06/30/2024] [Accepted: 07/03/2024] [Indexed: 07/20/2024]
Abstract
This review article provides an account of coastal and marine bird species contaminated with plastics in light of ingestion, taxonomy, feeding clusters, types, shapes, colours and lethal and sublethal effects. Bird species were found contaminated with plastics in 39 locations/countries across the seven continents. Global analysis shows that low, medium and high plastic ingestion occurred in bird species across the globe. Fulmars, shearwaters, petrels, albatrosses, gulls, and kittiwakes (all marine/seabirds) were found contaminated with plastics in several locations in the world. Bird species belonging to the Procellariidae, Laridae, Diomedeidae (by taxonomy), piscivorous, molluscivorous, and cancrivorous (by feeding habits) were most contaminated with plastics. Microplastic, mesoplastic and macroplastic (by sizes), PP, PE, PS, PET, PAN and PVC (by types), fragments, pellets, fibres, foams, sheets, threads, fishing lines and films (by shapes) and white, blue, green, black, clear, red and yellow (by colours) were the most common plastics ingested by birds. Several bird species contaminated with plastics fall within the critically endangered, endangered and vulnerable categories. The ingestion of plastics can cause direct harm to birds resulting in death. In addition, plastic-derived toxic chemical additives and plastic-adsorbed toxic chemicals would be an additional stressor causing both lethal and sublethal effects that can cause greater harm to the health of birds. Several measures are suggested to reduce plastic pollution in the environment to safeguard birds and the environment.
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Affiliation(s)
- Golam Kibria
- School of Science, RMIT University, Melbourne, Australia; Global Artificial Mussel Pollution Watch Program, Australia.
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3
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Teampanpong J, Duengkae P. Terrestrial wildlife as indicators of microplastic pollution in western Thailand. PeerJ 2024; 12:e17384. [PMID: 38784402 PMCID: PMC11114113 DOI: 10.7717/peerj.17384] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/03/2024] [Accepted: 04/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/25/2024] Open
Abstract
Plastic pollution in terrestrial wildlife represents a new conservation challenge, with research in this area, especially within protected areas (PAs), being scant. This study documents the accumulation of microplastics (MPs) in terrestrial wildlife both inside and outside PAs in western Thailand. Carcasses of road-killed vertebrates in good condition, as well as live tadpoles, were collected to examine their exposure to plastic pollution. The digestive tracts of the vertebrate carcasses and the entire bodies of tadpoles were analyzed for MPs, which were identified if they measured over 50 µm. A total of 136 individuals from 48 vertebrate species were examined. The sample comprised snakes (44.12%), birds (11.03%), lizards (5.15%), tadpoles (32.25%), amphibians (5.88%), and mammals (1.47%). In total, 387 MPs were found in 44 species (91.67%), with an average occurrence of 3.25 ± 3.63 MPs per individual or 0.05 ± 0.08 MPs per gram of body weight. The quantities of MPs significantly varied among the animal groups, both in terms of number per individual (p < 0.05) and number per gram of body weight (p < 0.01). Furthermore, a significant difference in MP quantities was observed between specimens collected inside and outside PAs on an individual basis (p < 0.05), but not on a body weight basis (p = 0.07). Most MPs were fibers (77%), followed by fragments (22.22%), with only a minimal presence of film (0.52%) and foam (0.26%). Of all the MPs identified, 36.84% were confirmed as plastics or fibers made from natural materials, and 31.58% were plastics, including Polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polypropylene (PP), Polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC), and polyester (PES). Additionally, fibers made of cotton, and those containing polyurethane (PU), rayon, PES, and combinations of rayon and PU, were identified. The quantities of MPs were significantly influenced by animal body weight, factors associated with human settlement/activity, and land use types. Our findings highlight the prevalence of plastic pollution in terrestrial vertebrates within Thai PAs. Further toxicological studies are required to establish plastic pollution standards. It is proposed that snakes, obtained from road kills, could serve as a non-invasive method for monitoring plastic pollution, thus acting as an indicator of the pollution threat to species within terrestrial ecosystems. There is an urgent need for the standardization of solid waste management at garbage dump sites in remote areas, especially within PAs. Conservation education focusing on MP occurrence, potential sources, and impacts could enhance awareness, thereby influencing changes in behaviors and attitudes toward plastic waste management at the household level.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jiraporn Teampanpong
- Department of Conservation, Faculty of Forestry, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
| | - Prateep Duengkae
- Department of Forest Biology, Faculty of Forestry, Kasetsart University, Bangkok, Thailand
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Pietrelli L, Dodaro G, Pelosi I, Menegoni P, Battisti C, Coccia C, Scalici M. Microplastic in an apex predator: evidence from Barn owl (Tyto alba) pellets in two sites with different levels of anthropization. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:33155-33162. [PMID: 38733443 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-33637-8] [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: 07/21/2023] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/13/2024]
Abstract
Plastic pollution in terrestrial and freshwater environments and its accumulation along food chains has been poorly studied in birds. The Barn owl (Tyto alba) is an opportunistic and nocturnal apex predator feeding mostly on small mammals. In this note, we reported evidence of microplastics (MPs) contamination in Barn owl pellets collected, for the first time, in two sites with different levels of anthropization (low: natural landscape mosaic vs. high extensive croplands). The following polymers have been recorded: polyvinylchloride (PVC), polyethylene (PE), expanded polyester (EPS), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT), polyester (PL), viscose, and starch-based biopolymer. We found significant higher MPs frequency in the most anthropized site. Our results suggest that pellet' analysis may represent a cost-effective method for monitoring MP contamination along food chains in terrestrial ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Giuseppe Dodaro
- Sustainable Development Foundation, Via Garigliano 61a, 00198, Rome, Italia
| | - Ilaria Pelosi
- Department of Sciences, University of Rome Tre, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Corrado Battisti
- "Torre Flavia" LTER (Long Term Ecological Research) Station, Città Metropolitana Di Roma, Servizio Aree protette - Parchi Regionali - Via Ribotta, 41 - 00144, Rome, Italy.
| | - Cristina Coccia
- Department of Sciences, University of Rome Tre, Rome, Italy
- National Biodiversity Future Center (NBFC), Università Di Palermo, Piazza Marina 61, 90133, Palermo, Italy
| | - Massimiliano Scalici
- Department of Sciences, University of Rome Tre, Rome, Italy
- National Biodiversity Future Center (NBFC), Università Di Palermo, Piazza Marina 61, 90133, Palermo, Italy
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5
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Mansfield I, Reynolds SJ, Lynch I, Matthews TJ, Sadler JP. Birds as bioindicators of plastic pollution in terrestrial and freshwater environments: A 30-year review. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 348:123790. [PMID: 38537798 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123790] [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: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/02/2024]
Abstract
Plastic pollution is a global concern that has grown ever more acute in recent years. Most research has focused on the impact of plastic pollution in marine environments. However, plastic is increasingly being detected in terrestrial and freshwater environments with key inland sources including landfills, where it is accessible to a wide range of organisms. Birds are effective bioindicators of pollutants for many reasons, including their high mobility and high intra- and interspecific variation in trophic levels. Freshwater and terrestrial bird species are under-represented in plastic pollution research compared to marine species. We reviewed 106 studies (spanning from 1994 onwards) that have detected plastics in bird species dwelling in freshwater and/or terrestrial habitats, identifying knowledge gaps. Seventy-two studies focused solely on macroplastics (fragments >5 mm), compared to 22 microplastic (fragments <5 mm) studies. A further 12 studies identified plastics as both microplastics and macroplastics. No study investigated nanoplastic (particles <100 nm) exposure. Research to date has geographical and species' biases while ignoring nanoplastic sequestration in free-living freshwater, terrestrial and marine bird species. Building on the baseline search presented here, we urge researchers to develop and validate standardised field sampling techniques and laboratory analytical protocols such as Raman spectroscopy to allow for the quantification and identification of micro- and nanoplastics in terrestrial and freshwater environments and the species therein. Future studies should consistently report the internalised and background concentrations, types, sizes and forms of plastics. This will enable a better understanding of the sources of plastic pollution and their routes of exposure to birds of terrestrial and freshwater environments, providing a more comprehensive insight into the potential impacts on birds.
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Affiliation(s)
- I Mansfield
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK.
| | - S J Reynolds
- School of Biosciences, College of Life & Environmental Sciences, University of Birmingham, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK; The Army Ornithological Society (AOS), c/o Prince Consort Library, Knollys Road, Aldershot, Hampshire GU11 1PS, UK
| | - I Lynch
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - T J Matthews
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
| | - J P Sadler
- School of Geography, Earth and Environmental Sciences, Birmingham B15 2TT, UK
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6
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Recabarren-Villalón T, Ronda AC, La Sala L, Sanhueza C, Díaz L, Rodríguez Pirani LS, Picone AL, Romano RM, Petracci P, Arias AH. First assessment of debris pollution in the gastrointestinal content of juvenile Magellanic penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus) stranded on the west south Atlantic coasts. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 188:114628. [PMID: 36701975 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114628] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2022] [Revised: 01/12/2023] [Accepted: 01/15/2023] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
This paper provides the first evidence of debris pollution, including plastic, in juvenile Magellanic penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus) found stranded on the Atlantic coast of southern Buenos Aires Province, Argentina. Macro-, meso- and microparticles of anthropogenic origin were observed in 100 % of the studied birds, with debris abundance ranging between 33 and 200 items/bird. Microparticles represented 91 % of the total debris and 97 % of them were fibers. Black particles were the most abundant (30 %), followed by transparent (26 %), blue (14 %), yellow (10.3 %), and red (10 %). Infrared and Raman spectroscopy identified 62.7 % of the total particles as plastics, with polypropylene (27.8 %) and polyester (21.6 %) being the most abundant polymers. Semi-synthetic cellulosic fibers, metallic particles, and pigments were also found. The presence of metallic microparticles was suggested for the first time in penguins. Stranded juvenile Magellanic penguins are proposed as promising bioindicators of plastic pollution in the South Atlantic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tatiana Recabarren-Villalón
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO-CONICET/UNS), Camino La Carrindanga km 7.5, 8000 Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Ana C Ronda
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO-CONICET/UNS), Camino La Carrindanga km 7.5, 8000 Bahía Blanca, Argentina; Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur, Av. Alem 1253, 8000 Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Luciano La Sala
- Instituto de Ciencias Biológicas y Biomédicas del Sur, CONICET/UNS, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Cristina Sanhueza
- Grupo de Estudio en Conservación y Manejo (Gekko), Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - Lucrecia Díaz
- Grupo de Investigación y Rehabilitación de Tortugas Marinas (Quelona), Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur, Bahía Blanca, Argentina
| | - 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, Blvd. 120 N° 1465, La Plata 1900, 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, Blvd. 120 N° 1465, La Plata 1900, 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, Blvd. 120 N° 1465, La Plata 1900, Argentina
| | - Pablo Petracci
- Grupo de Estudio en Conservación y Manejo (Gekko), Departamento de Biología, Bioquímica y Farmacia, Universidad Nacional del Sur, Bahía Blanca, Argentina; Estación de Rescate de Fauna Marina Guillermo "Indio" Fidalgo, Sitio 11, Puerto Galván Bahía Blanca Buenos Aires, Argentina
| | - Andrés H Arias
- Instituto Argentino de Oceanografía (IADO-CONICET/UNS), Camino La Carrindanga km 7.5, 8000 Bahía Blanca, Argentina; Departamento de Química, Universidad Nacional del Sur (UNS), Av. Alem 1253, 8000 Bahía Blanca, Argentina.
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7
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Nessi A, Winkler A, Tremolada P, Saliu F, Lasagni M, Ghezzi LLM, Balestrieri A. Microplastic contamination in terrestrial ecosystems: A study using barn owl (Tyto alba) pellets. CHEMOSPHERE 2022; 308:136281. [PMID: 36064015 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2022.136281] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/05/2022] [Revised: 08/24/2022] [Accepted: 08/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are recognised as an emerging environmental problem that needs to be carefully monitored. So far, MPs have been widely recorded in marine and freshwater ecosystems. Still, few studies have focused on MP occurrence in terrestrial ecosystems, although soils are suspected to be one of the main MP reservoirs. To test a non-invasive method for assessing MP contamination in terrestrial ecosystems, we analysed the pellets of a top terrestrial predator, the barn owl (Tyto alba). Sixty pellets were collected from three agricultural areas (20 pellets each) and analysed to assess both barn owl diet and MP content. Thirty-four MPs were confirmed by micro-Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (μ-FTIR) analysis in 33% of the pellets (min-max 1-5 MPs per pellet). Most of the detected items were microfibres (88.2%). Polyethylene terephthalate, polyacrylonitrile and polyamide were the most abundant polymers. One of the three sites was significantly less contaminated. In the two sites with the highest MP occurrences, barn owl diet was characterised by predation on synanthropic rodents, particularly brown rats (Rattus norvegicus), which may indicate habitat degradation and increased exposure to MPs. Analyses also suggest that Savi's pine vole (Microtus savii) is the prey least at risk of MP contamination, probably due to its strictly herbivorous diet. We argue that the analysis of barn owl pellets may represent a cost-effective method for monitoring MP contamination in terrestrial ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alessandro Nessi
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, 20133, Milan, Italy.
| | - Anna Winkler
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Tremolada
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Francesco Saliu
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20126, Milan, Italy
| | - Marina Lasagni
- Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Milano-Bicocca, 20126, Milan, Italy
| | | | - Alessandro Balestrieri
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, 20133, Milan, Italy
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8
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Roman L, Hardesty BD, Schuyler Q. A systematic review and risk matrix of plastic litter impacts on aquatic wildlife: A case study of the Mekong and Ganges River Basins. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2022; 843:156858. [PMID: 35772547 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.156858] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/16/2022] [Revised: 06/15/2022] [Accepted: 06/17/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Plastic litter is a pollutant of aquatic environments worldwide, with some of the world's highest litter densities occurring in freshwater ecosystems. Little information about the risk that plastic litter poses to aquatic wildlife is available across the world's most polluted waterways. To help assess the risk to aquatic species where empirical data is lacking, our review presents i) a risk assessment methodology for predicting plastic litter impacts on aquatic wildlife in data poor environments, ii) a case study demonstrating this risk assessment methodology for wildlife across two heavily polluted river basins in Asia, the Mekong and Ganges River Basins; and iii) a broad review summarising common trends in litter interactions and risk to freshwater fish, aquatic birds, cetaceans and raptors. This risk analysis unites a systematic review approach with risk matrices following International Standards Organization's risk assessment criteria, evaluating the risk of plastic entanglement and ingestion and the potential for harm to the animal. In the Mekong and Ganges River Basins, we found that the risk of litter entanglement is higher than litter ingestion. Four species were forecast to be at high risk of entanglement: Ganges River dolphin, Gharial, Mekong giant catfish and Irrawaddy dolphin. The eastern imperial eagle and greater spotted eagle were noted to be at moderate risk of entanglement. Both the Ganges River dolphin and Irrawaddy dolphin were predicted to have a moderate risk of plastic ingestion. Interestingly, cranes, waterfowl and wading birds were deemed at low or negligible risk from plastic litter. This risk matrix methodology can be applied to other waterways and taxa to assess the risk posed by plastic. It can also be readily updated as more information becomes available. This review enables decision makers to bridge a data gap by providing a tool for conservation and management before comprehensive empirical data is available.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Roman
- CSIRO Oceans and Atmosphere, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia.
| | - Britta Denise Hardesty
- CSIRO Oceans and Atmosphere, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia; Centre for Marine Socioecology, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
| | - Qamar Schuyler
- CSIRO Oceans and Atmosphere, Hobart, Tasmania, Australia
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9
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Stanton T, Chico G, Carr E, Cook S, Gomes RL, Heard E, Law A, Wilson HL, Johnson M. Planet Patrolling: A citizen science brand audit of anthropogenic litter in the context of national legislation and international policy. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2022; 436:129118. [PMID: 35576666 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2022.129118] [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: 03/07/2022] [Revised: 05/05/2022] [Accepted: 05/06/2022] [Indexed: 06/15/2023]
Abstract
Anthropogenic Litter (AL) is ubiquitous in distribution and diverse in type and impact. Citizen science AL clean-ups engage citizens with the environment and have the potential to generate data that can inform policy. Here we present a detailed citizen science survey of AL across freshwater, terrestrial, and coastal environments of the United Kingdom (UK), coordinated by the not-for-profit Planet Patrol throughout 2020. Key materials, industries, brands, and parent companies associated with AL are identified. Plastic dominated AL (63%), followed by metal (14%), and composite materials (12%). The majority of AL (56%) had been used as beverage containers and non-beverage packaging, and 38.8% of AL was branded. Of the branded AL, 26% was associated with The Coca-Cola Company, Anheuser-Busch InBev, and PepsiCo. These three companies were associated with significantly more branded litter than any other. We place these data in the context of upcoming UK legislation and the Environmental Social Governance (ESG) statements of the companies associated with the majority of the recorded litter. Knowledge gaps and recommendations for AL surveying are made, and the focus of corporate and government actions are discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Thomas Stanton
- Geography and Environment, Loughborough University, Loughborough LE11 3TU, United Kingdom; School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Brackenhurst Campus, Southwell NG25 0QF, United Kingdom.
| | - Guaduneth Chico
- School of Animal, Rural and Environmental Sciences, Nottingham Trent University, Brackenhurst Campus, Southwell NG25 0QF, United Kingdom
| | | | - Sarah Cook
- School of Biosciences, Division of Agricultural and Environmental Sciences, University of Nottingham, C23 The Gateway Building, Sutton Bonington Campus, Loughborough LE12 5RD, United Kingdom
| | - Rachel Louise Gomes
- Food, Water, Waste Research Group, Faculty of Engineering, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, United Kingdom
| | | | - Antonia Law
- School of Geography, Geology, and the Environment, Keele University, Keele, Staffordshire ST5 5BG, United Kingdom
| | - Hazel L Wilson
- School of Geography, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, United Kingdom
| | - Matthew Johnson
- School of Geography, University of Nottingham, Nottingham NG7 2RD, United Kingdom
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10
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Liu S, Shi J, Wang J, Dai Y, Li H, Li J, Liu X, Chen X, Wang Z, Zhang P. Interactions Between Microplastics and Heavy Metals in Aquatic Environments: A Review. Front Microbiol 2021; 12:652520. [PMID: 33967988 PMCID: PMC8100347 DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2021.652520] [Citation(s) in RCA: 27] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/12/2021] [Accepted: 03/11/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), tiny particles broken down from larger pieces of plastics, have accumulated everywhere on the earth. As an inert carbon stream in aquatic environment, they have been reported as carriers for heavy metals and exhibit diverse interactive effects. However, these interactions are still poorly understood, especially mechanisms driving these interactions and how they pose risks on living organisms. In this mini review, a bibliometric analysis in this field was conducted and then the mechanisms driving these interactions were examined, especially emphasizing the important roles of microorganisms on the interactions. Their combined toxic effects and the potential hazards to human health were also discussed. Finally, the future research directions in this field were suggested. This review summarized the recent research progress in this field and highlighted the essential roles of the microbes on the interactions between MPs and heavy metals with the hope to promote more studies to unveil action mechanisms and reduce/eliminate the risks associated with MP presence.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sitong Liu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jiafu Shi
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jiao Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Yexin Dai
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Hongyu Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Jiayao Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xianhua Liu
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Xiaochen Chen
- Fujian Provincial Engineering Research Center of Rural Waste Recycling Technology, College of Environment and Resources, Fuzhou University, Fuzhou, China
| | - Zhiyun Wang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tianjin University, Tianjin, China
| | - Pingping Zhang
- College of Food Science and Engineering, Tianjin Agricultural University, Tianjin, China
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11
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Lopes CS, Paiva VH, Vaz PT, Pais de Faria J, Calado JG, Pereira JM, Ramos JA. Ingestion of anthropogenic materials by yellow-legged gulls (Larus michahellis) in natural, urban, and landfill sites along Portugal in relation to diet composition. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2021; 28:19046-19063. [PMID: 33394440 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-12161-5] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/28/2020] [Accepted: 12/17/2020] [Indexed: 06/12/2023]
Abstract
Pollution is a global concern, increasing rapidly throughout marine and terrestrial ecosystems, and affecting many species. Urbanization enhances waste production, leading to the opening of landfills that constitute a spatially and temporally predictable food source for opportunistic species. Several species of gulls are known to exploit and breed in urban areas, taking advantage of accessible and diverse food resources. The exploitation of anthropogenic food subsidies at sea (e.g. fishery discards), urban sites, and landfills leads to debris ingestion by gulls with potential negative effects. Here we characterize anthropogenic debris ingested by yellow-legged gulls (Larus michahellis) along Portugal, by analysing the content of pellets collected in (1) natural and urban breeding locations, and in (2) urban and landfill resting sites, to assess seasonal patterns in the ingestion of anthropogenic debris. We also relate diet with the presence of anthropogenic debris. Debris materials were found in 28.8% of pellets from breeding locations (natural and urban) and in 89.7% of pellets from resting sites (urban and landfill). Gulls from the most urbanized breeding location exhibited higher levels of ingested materials during the entire breeding cycle, however, gulls from a natural breeding site also ingested high levels of debris during the pre-breeding season. At resting sites, small seasonal differences were detected in the number and mass of debris items ingested, which were both higher during spring and summer. Gulls that typically fed on pelagic fish had significantly less sheet and fragment plastics in their pellets. The presence of certain debris categories in gull pellets was positively related to the presence of some prey items, suggesting that gulls may accidentally ingest debris while foraging at multiple habitats. The quantity of anthropogenic materials ingested by gulls from urban locations and landfills indicates a need for improved waste management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Catarina S Lopes
- University of Coimbra, MARE-Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, Coimbra, 3004-517, Portugal.
| | - Vitor H Paiva
- University of Coimbra, MARE-Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, Coimbra, 3004-517, Portugal
| | - Patrícia T Vaz
- University of Coimbra, MARE-Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, Coimbra, 3004-517, Portugal
| | - Joana Pais de Faria
- University of Coimbra, MARE-Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, Coimbra, 3004-517, Portugal
| | - Joana G Calado
- University of Coimbra, MARE-Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, Coimbra, 3004-517, Portugal
- Molecular and Environmental Biology Centre (CBMA), Universidade do Minho Campus de Gualtar, Braga, 4710-057, Portugal
- Animal Ecology Group, Universidade de Vigo, Lab 97, Torre CACTI, Campus As Lagoas, Vigo, Spain
| | - Jorge M Pereira
- University of Coimbra, MARE-Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, Coimbra, 3004-517, Portugal
- Environment and Sustainability Institute, University of Exeter, Penryn Campus, Penryn, Cornwall, TR10 9FE, UK
| | - Jaime A Ramos
- University of Coimbra, MARE-Marine and Environmental Sciences Centre, Department of Life Sciences, Calçada Martim de Freitas, Coimbra, 3004-517, Portugal
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12
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Chen Y, Awasthi AK, Wei F, Tan Q, Li J. Single-use plastics: Production, usage, disposal, and adverse impacts. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 752:141772. [PMID: 32892042 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2020.141772] [Citation(s) in RCA: 154] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 08/05/2020] [Accepted: 08/16/2020] [Indexed: 04/15/2023]
Abstract
Single-use plastics (SUPs), invented for the modern "throwaway society," are intended to be used only once. They are being increasingly produced and used globally, most notably as packaging or consumables, such as SUP shopping bags or disposable tableware. We discuss how most SUPs are landfilled or incinerated, which causes pollution, consumes valuable land, and squanders limited natural resources. Only relatively small amounts are currently recycled, a hindrance to the concept of a circular economy. Moreover, SUP litter aggregation in the natural environment is a major concern. This article briefly reviews SUP contamination in various environmental media including soil, rivers, lakes and oceans around the world. In the face of mounting evidence regarding the threat posed to plant growth, soil invertebrates and other land animals, (sea) birds, and marine ecosystems, there is a growing push to minimize SUPs. Regulatory tools and voluntary actions to reduce SUP usage have been put forward, with some suggestions for minimizing SUP waste.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yuan Chen
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China; Key Laboratory of Cleaner Production and Integrated Resource Utilization of China National Light Industry, Beijing Technology and Business University, Beijing 100048, China
| | | | - Fan Wei
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Quanyin Tan
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China
| | - Jinhui Li
- School of Environment, Tsinghua University, Beijing, 100084, China; Basel Convention Regional Centre for Asia and the Pacific, Beijing 100084, China.
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13
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Ta AT, Babel S. Microplastics pollution with heavy metals in the aquaculture zone of the Chao Phraya River Estuary, Thailand. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2020; 161:111747. [PMID: 33091841 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.111747] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/16/2020] [Revised: 10/05/2020] [Accepted: 10/06/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics have received special attention due to their potential risks to environments. However, data on microplastics in estuaries of the Southeast Asian region is still insufficient. This study investigated the abundance and characteristics of microplastics in the sediment and surface water of the Chao Phraya River Estuary, Thailand. Concentrations of heavy metals extracted from microplastics were also reported. The abundance of microplastics in surface water and sediment was 48 ± 8 items/m3 and 39 ± 14 items/kg, respectively. Microplastics with small sizes of 0.05-0.3 mm were predominant in all collected samples. Polypropylene and polyethylene particles were the most abundant in the surface water and sediment, respectively. Toxic metals (Cr, Cu, Ni, Pb, Cd, and Zn) were found in microplastics from surface water samples. Since Chao Phraya River Estuary is an important aquaculture zone in Thailand, the presence of microplastics in this area may severely impact on aquaculture and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anh Tuan Ta
- School of Biochemical Engineering and Technology, Sirindhorn International Institute of Technology, Thammasat University, P.O. Box 22, Pathum Thani 12121, Thailand
| | - Sandhya Babel
- School of Biochemical Engineering and Technology, Sirindhorn International Institute of Technology, Thammasat University, P.O. Box 22, Pathum Thani 12121, Thailand.
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14
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Winkler A, Nessi A, Antonioli D, Laus M, Santo N, Parolini M, Tremolada P. Occurrence of microplastics in pellets from the common kingfisher (Alcedo atthis) along the Ticino River, North Italy. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2020; 27:41731-41739. [PMID: 32696405 PMCID: PMC7593284 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-020-10163-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/25/2020] [Accepted: 07/16/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Previous research has reported avian plastic ingestion in marine bird species. Yet, while research attention on plastic pollution is shifting from marine to freshwater ecosystems, very few information on plastic ingestion is available for freshwater birds. Here, we examined the presence of microplastic in regurgitated pellets of the common kingfisher (Alcedo atthis) collected along the Ticino River (North Italy). In total, 133 kingfisher's pellets were examined between March and October 2019 from 54 transects along the river. Plastic elements were detected and identified by visual inspection followed by μ-FTIR and SEM-EDS. Overall, we found 12 (micro)plastics from at least three different polymers in 7.5% of the pellets. This study provides the first report of plastic uptake of this bird species. It highlights the importance of spectroscopic techniques in plastic monitoring studies in order to avoid misidentification of items found. Documenting the presence of plastic ingestion by top carnivores such as fish-eating birds is necessary to understand the pervasiveness and impact of (micro)plastic pollution in food webs of freshwater ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Anna Winkler
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Via Celoria 26, 20133, Milan, Italy.
| | - Alessandro Nessi
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Via Celoria 26, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Diego Antonioli
- University of Piemonte Orientale, DISIT, Via T. Michel 11, 15121, Alessandria, Italy
| | - Michele Laus
- University of Piemonte Orientale, DISIT, Via T. Michel 11, 15121, Alessandria, Italy
| | - Nadia Santo
- Unitech NOLIMITS, Imaging facility, University of Milan, Via Golgi 19, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Marco Parolini
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Via Celoria 26, 20133, Milan, Italy
| | - Paolo Tremolada
- Department of Environmental Science and Policy, University of Milan, Via Celoria 26, 20133, Milan, Italy
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15
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Coughlan NE, Doyle S, Baker-Arney C, Griffith RM, Lyne L, Williams H, Kelly TC, McMahon BJ, Dick JTA, Cunningham EM. Ingestion of anthropogenic debris by migratory barnacle geese Branta leucopsis on a remote north-eastern Atlantic island. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2020; 160:111588. [PMID: 32853840 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.111588] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/29/2020] [Revised: 08/17/2020] [Accepted: 08/18/2020] [Indexed: 06/11/2023]
Abstract
Although seabirds are frequently used as sentinel species for anthropogenic pollution, the extent and impacts of synthetic debris ingestion remains poorly studied for many water bird species. Here, we assess ingestion of synthetic particles (≥0.5 mm) by barnacle geese, Branta leucopsis, wintering on a remote island. Faecal samples were collected over a period of four wintering seasons. In total, 71 individual samples were assessed, with 79% of samples displaying at least one debris particle (maximum lengths 0.5-5 mm) from anthropogenic sources. The recovered synthetic debris were identified as micro-fibres (n = 166) and micro-fragments (n = 165). The number of synthetic particles detected per sample was generally low at 4.7 ± 0.9, 43 (mean ± SE, maximum): micro-fibres 2.3 ± 0.3, 10; micro-fragments 2.3 ± 0.8, 40. Particle numbers detected per gram of faecal sample differed amongst wintering seasons. Our results suggest that non-marine water birds can frequently ingest low quantities of synthetic particles in remote coastal habitats.
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Affiliation(s)
- Neil E Coughlan
- Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast BT9 5DL, Northern Ireland, UK; Queen's Marine Laboratory, Queen's University Belfast, 12-13 The Strand, Portaferry BT22 1PF, Northern Ireland, UK; School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University College Cork, Distillery Fields, North Mall, Cork, Ireland.
| | - Susan Doyle
- School of Agriculture & Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Connie Baker-Arney
- Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast BT9 5DL, Northern Ireland, UK; Queen's Marine Laboratory, Queen's University Belfast, 12-13 The Strand, Portaferry BT22 1PF, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Rose M Griffith
- Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast BT9 5DL, Northern Ireland, UK; Queen's Marine Laboratory, Queen's University Belfast, 12-13 The Strand, Portaferry BT22 1PF, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Linda Lyne
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University College Cork, Distillery Fields, North Mall, Cork, Ireland
| | - Hannah Williams
- Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast BT9 5DL, Northern Ireland, UK; Queen's Marine Laboratory, Queen's University Belfast, 12-13 The Strand, Portaferry BT22 1PF, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Thomas C Kelly
- School of Biological, Earth and Environmental Sciences, University College Cork, Distillery Fields, North Mall, Cork, Ireland
| | - Barry J McMahon
- School of Agriculture & Food Science, University College Dublin, Belfield, Dublin, Ireland
| | - Jaimie T A Dick
- Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast BT9 5DL, Northern Ireland, UK; Queen's Marine Laboratory, Queen's University Belfast, 12-13 The Strand, Portaferry BT22 1PF, Northern Ireland, UK
| | - Eoghan M Cunningham
- Institute for Global Food Security, School of Biological Sciences, Queen's University Belfast, 19 Chlorine Gardens, Belfast BT9 5DL, Northern Ireland, UK; Queen's Marine Laboratory, Queen's University Belfast, 12-13 The Strand, Portaferry BT22 1PF, Northern Ireland, UK; School of Biological and Environmental Sciences, Liverpool John Moores University, 3 Byrom St, Liverpool L3 3AF, UK
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16
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Iannilli V, Pasquali V, Setini A, Corami F. First evidence of microplastics ingestion in benthic amphipods from Svalbard. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2019; 179:108811. [PMID: 31622894 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2019.108811] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2019] [Revised: 09/10/2019] [Accepted: 10/07/2019] [Indexed: 05/11/2023]
Abstract
The present paper provides the first record of ingestion of microplastics in natural context by Gammarus setosus from Svalbard Archipelago. The plastic particles were identified both by Nile Red staining and Micro FT-IR spectroscopy. The species studied ingests microplastic particles in natural conditions if present in its habitat, probably mistaking them as food. The microplastic particles ingested may be available for uptake to predators that consume this Arctic amphipod, producing consequences to the food web.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Andrea Setini
- Sapienza Università di Roma, Piazzale A. Moro, 5 00185, Roma, Italy
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17
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Bradney L, Wijesekara H, Palansooriya KN, Obadamudalige N, Bolan NS, Ok YS, Rinklebe J, Kim KH, Kirkham MB. Particulate plastics as a vector for toxic trace-element uptake by aquatic and terrestrial organisms and human health risk. ENVIRONMENT INTERNATIONAL 2019; 131:104937. [PMID: 31284110 DOI: 10.1016/j.envint.2019.104937] [Citation(s) in RCA: 257] [Impact Index Per Article: 51.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/06/2018] [Revised: 05/31/2019] [Accepted: 06/15/2019] [Indexed: 05/22/2023]
Abstract
Particulate plastics in the terrestrial and aquatic environments are small plastic fragments or beads (i.e., 5 mm down to the nanometre range). They have been frequently referred to as 'micro-plastics' or 'nano-plastics'. Research has identified particulate plastics as a vector for toxic trace elements in the environment. The adsorption of toxic trace elements by particulate plastics may be facilitated by their high surface area and functionalized surfaces (e.g., through the attachment of natural organic matter). Other factors, such as environmental conditions (e.g., pH and water salinity), surface charge, and trace element oxidation status, also influence the adsorption of trace elements onto particulate plastics. Because of their small size and persistence, particulate plastics and the associated toxic trace elements are readily ingested and accumulated in many terrestrial and aquatic organisms. Thus, these plastics can have severe environmental consequences, such as the development of metal toxicity, within aquatic and terrestrial organisms. Humans could also become exposed to particulate plastics through food chain contamination and airborne ingestion. This review provides an overview of the sources of particulate plastics in the environment. To this end, we describe particulate plastics made of synthetic polymers, their origin, and characteristics with emphasis on how particulate plastics and associated toxic trace elements contaminate terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Future research needs and strategies are discussed to help reduce the environmental risks of particulate plastics as a potent vector for the transportation of toxic trace elements.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Bradney
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), Advanced Technology Centre, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Hasintha Wijesekara
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), Advanced Technology Centre, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; Department of Natural Resources, Faculty of Applied Sciences, Sabaragamuwa University of Sri Lanka, Belihuloya 70140, Sri Lanka.
| | - Kumuduni Niroshika Palansooriya
- Korea Biochar Research Center, O-Jeong Eco-Resilience Institute (OJERI) & Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Nadeeka Obadamudalige
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), Advanced Technology Centre, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia
| | - Nanthi S Bolan
- Global Centre for Environmental Remediation (GCER), Advanced Technology Centre, Faculty of Science, The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW 2308, Australia; Cooperative Research Centre for High Performance Soil (Soil CRC), The University of Newcastle, Callaghan, NSW, 2308, Australia
| | - Yong Sik Ok
- Korea Biochar Research Center, O-Jeong Eco-Resilience Institute (OJERI) & Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul 02841, Republic of Korea
| | - Jörg Rinklebe
- University of Wuppertal, School of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Institute of Foundation Engineering, Water- and Waste-Management, Laboratory of Soil- and Groundwater-Management, Pauluskirchstraße 7, 42285 Wuppertal, Germany; Department of Environment, Energy & Geoinformatics, Sejong University, 98 Gunja-Dong, Guangjin-Gu, Seoul, South Korea
| | - Ki-Hyun Kim
- Air Quality & Materials Application Lab, Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-Ro, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea.
| | - M B Kirkham
- Department of Agronomy, Throckmorton Plant Sciences Center, Kansas State University, Manhattan, KS 66506-5501, United States
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18
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Provencher JF, Borrelle SB, Bond AL, Lavers JL, van Franeker JA, Kühn S, Hammer S, Avery-Gomm S, Mallory ML. Recommended best practices for plastic and litter ingestion studies in marine birds: Collection, processing, and reporting. Facets (Ott) 2019. [DOI: 10.1139/facets-2018-0043] [Citation(s) in RCA: 48] [Impact Index Per Article: 9.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Marine plastic pollution is an environmental contaminant of significant concern. There is a lack of consistency in sample collection and processing that continues to impede meta-analyses and large-scale comparisons across time and space. This is true for most taxa, including seabirds, which are the most studied megafauna group with regards to plastic ingestion research. Consequently, it is difficult to evaluate the impacts and extent of plastic contamination in seabirds fully and accurately, and to make inferences about species for which we have little or no data. We provide a synthesized set of recommendations specific for seabirds and plastic ingestion studies that include best practices in relation to sample collection, processing, and reporting, as well as highlighting some “cross-cutting” methods. We include guidance for how carcasses, regurgitations, and pellets should be handled and treated to prevent cross-contamination, and a discussion of what size class of microplastics can be assessed in each sample type. Although we focus on marine bird samples, we also include standardized techniques to remove sediment and biological material that are generalizable to other taxa. Lastly, metrics and data presentation of ingested plastics are briefly reviewed in the context of seabird studies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer F. Provencher
- Canadian Wildlife Service, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Gatineau, QC K1A 0H3, Canada
- Department of Biology, Acadia University, Wolfville, NS B4P 2R6, Canada
| | - Stephanie B. Borrelle
- David H. Smith Conservation Research Program, Society for Conservation Biology, Washington, DC 20005, USA
- Northern New Zealand Seabird Trust, Leigh 0947, Auckland, New Zealand
| | - Alexander L. Bond
- Bird Group, Department of Life Sciences, The Natural History Museum, Akeman Street, Tring, Hertfordshire HP23 6AP, UK
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Battery Point, Tasmania 7004, Australia
| | - Jennifer L. Lavers
- Institute for Marine and Antarctic Studies, University of Tasmania, Battery Point, Tasmania 7004, Australia
| | - Jan A. van Franeker
- Wageningen Marine Research, Ankerpark 27, 1781 AG Den Helder, the Netherlands
| | - Susanne Kühn
- Wageningen Marine Research, Ankerpark 27, 1781 AG Den Helder, the Netherlands
| | - Sjúrður Hammer
- Faroe Marine Research Institute, FO-110 Tórshavn, Faroe Islands
| | - Stephanie Avery-Gomm
- ARC Centre of Excellence for Environmental Decisions, University of Queensland, St. Lucia, Queensland 4072, Australia
- School of Biological Sciences, The University of Queensland, Brisbane, Queensland 4072, Australia
| | - Mark L. Mallory
- Department of Biology, Acadia University, Wolfville, NS B4P 2R6, Canada
- Canada Fulbright Chair in Arctic Studies, University of Washington, Box 353650, Seattle, WA 98195-3560, USA
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19
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Battisti C, Staffieri E, Poeta G, Sorace A, Luiselli L, Amori G. Interactions between anthropogenic litter and birds: A global review with a 'black-list' of species. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2019; 138:93-114. [PMID: 30660318 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.11.017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/03/2018] [Revised: 11/05/2018] [Accepted: 11/09/2018] [Indexed: 05/05/2023]
Abstract
The interaction of anthropogenic litter (by incorporation litter in nests, ingestion, and entanglement) with birds was systematically reviewed using Google Scholar database. A 'black-list' of 258 species was compiled. Among them 206 (79.8%) were seabirds. Four seabird orders (Gaviiformes, Phaetontiformes, Procellariformes, Sphenisciformes) showed the highest percentage of interacting species. At family level, >70% of species of Gaviidae, Diomedeidae, Sulidae, Stercoraridae and Alcidae were involved in interactions with litter. We observed (i) a significant correlation between Scholar recurrences and species citations about anthropogenic litter only when considering seabirds; (ii) a low number of references before 1981 with a bimodal pattern showing a first peak in 1986-90 and a progressively increasing trend in the 2000s. Regarding the type of interaction, there was a significantly higher percentage of species involved in ingestion when compared to the percentage involved in entanglement. We suggest the use of consolidated standardized litter nomenclature and characterization and the adoption of a logical causal chain helping researchers in defining suitable frameworks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Corrado Battisti
- "Torre Flavia" LTER (Long Term Ecological Research) Station, Città Metropolitana di Roma Capitale - Servizio Aree protette - Parchi regionali, via Tiburtina 691, Rome, Italy.
| | - Eleonora Staffieri
- Dipartimento di Scienze, Università degli Studi di Roma Tre, Viale Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | - Gianluca Poeta
- Dipartimento di Scienze, Università degli Studi di Roma Tre, Viale Marconi 446, 00146 Rome, Italy
| | | | - Luca Luiselli
- Niger Delta Ecology and Biodiversity Conservation Unit, Department of Applied and Environmental Biology, Rivers State University of Science and Technology, PMB 5080, Port Harcourt, Rivers State, Nigeria; IDECC - Institute for Development, Ecology, Conservation and Cooperation, via G. Tomasi di Lampedusa 33, 00144 Rome, Italy
| | - Giovanni Amori
- CNR - Institute of Ecosystem Studies, Viale dell'Università 32, 00185 Rome, Italy
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20
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Ryan PG. Entanglement of birds in plastics and other synthetic materials. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 135:159-164. [PMID: 30301025 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.06.057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 78] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/06/2018] [Revised: 06/21/2018] [Accepted: 06/23/2018] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Entanglement of animals is one of the main environmental impacts of waste plastic. A 2015 review of entanglement records found that the proportion of affected seabirds increased from 16% of species to 25% over the last two decades. However, this was restricted to published records; Google Images and other web-based sources indicate that at least 147 seabird species (36%), as well as 69 freshwater birds (10%) and 49 landbirds (0.5%) from 53 families have been entangled in plastic or other synthetic materials. Fishing gear is responsible for entangling most species (83%), although it is often difficult to differentiate entanglement from bycatch on active gear. Mitigation measures include banning high-risk applications where there are alternatives (e.g. six-pack rings), discouraging the use of high-risk items (e.g. balloons on strings, 'manja' kites), and encouraging fishers to not discard waste fishing gear by providing specific receptacles and associated educational signage in fishing areas.
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Affiliation(s)
- Peter G Ryan
- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST-NRF Centre of Excellence, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa.
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21
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Seif S, Provencher JF, Avery-Gomm S, Daoust PY, Mallory ML, Smith PA. Plastic and Non-plastic Debris Ingestion in Three Gull Species Feeding in an Urban Landfill Environment. ARCHIVES OF ENVIRONMENTAL CONTAMINATION AND TOXICOLOGY 2018; 74:349-360. [PMID: 29282493 DOI: 10.1007/s00244-017-0492-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 45] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/10/2017] [Accepted: 12/11/2017] [Indexed: 05/07/2023]
Abstract
Plastic debris is recognized as a widespread, common and problematic environmental pollutant. An important consequence of this pollution is the ingestion of plastic debris by wildlife. Assessing the degree to which different species ingest plastics, and the potential effects of these plastics on their health are important research needs for understanding the impacts of plastic pollution. We examined debris (plastic and other types) ingestion in three sympatric overwintering gull species (Herring gulls Larus smithsonianus, Great Black-backed Gulls Larus marinus, and Iceland Gulls Larus glaucoides) to understand how debris ingestion differs among species, age classes and sexes in gulls. We also assessed how plastic burdens were associated with body condition to investigate how gulls may be affected by debris ingestion. There were no differences among the species, age classes or sexes in the incidence of debris ingestion (plastic or otherwise), the mass or number of debris pieces ingested. We found no correlation between ingested plastics burdens and individual condition. Gulls ingested plastic debris, but also showed high levels of other debris types as well, including metal, glass and building materials, including a metal piece of debris found within an abscess in the stomach. Thus, when the health effects of debris ingestion on gulls, and other species that ingest debris, is of interest, either from a physical or chemical perspective, it may be necessary to consider all debris types and not just plastic burdens as is often currently done for seabirds.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Seif
- Department of Integrated Science, Carleton University, Ottawa, ON, K1S 5B6, Canada.
| | - J F Provencher
- Department of Biology, Acadia University, Wolfville, NS, B4P 2R6, Canada
| | - S Avery-Gomm
- Wildlife Research Division, Environment and Climate Change Canada, 6 Bruce Street, Mount Pearl, NF, A1N 4T3, Canada
- Centre for Excellence in Environmental Decisions, University of Queensland, St. Lucia, QLD, 4072, Australia
| | - P-Y Daoust
- Canadian Wildlife Health Cooperative, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, PE, C1A 4P3, Canada
- Department of Pathology and Microbiology, Atlantic Veterinary College, University of Prince Edward Island, Charlottetown, PE, C1A 4P3, Canada
| | - M L Mallory
- Department of Biology, Acadia University, Wolfville, NS, B4P 2R6, Canada
| | - P A Smith
- Science and Technology Branch, Environment and Climate Change Canada, Ottawa, ON, K1S 5B6, Canada
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22
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Reynolds C, Ryan PG. Micro-plastic ingestion by waterbirds from contaminated wetlands in South Africa. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 126:330-333. [PMID: 29421107 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.11.021] [Citation(s) in RCA: 86] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2017] [Revised: 11/02/2017] [Accepted: 11/13/2017] [Indexed: 05/04/2023]
Abstract
Despite a large literature on the impacts of micro-plastic pollution in marine ecosystems, very little research has focused on these pollutants in freshwater ecosystems. Recently, however, a few studies have demonstrated that micro-plastic pollutants are ingested by freshwater taxa, including birds. To explore this potential environmental threat in African freshwater systems we quantified micro-plastic pollutants in the faeces and feather brushings of seven southern African duck species. We analysed 283 faecal samples and 408 feather brushings, and found that 5% of faecal samples and 10% of feather samples contained micro-plastic fibres. The presence and abundance of micro-fibres differed between sampling sites, with significantly higher amounts recorded for the site that received effluent from a sewage treatment facility. Additionally, micro-fibre presence differed across duck species, indicating that foraging behaviour affects plastic ingestion. Our study confirms that African freshwater ecosystems and the biodiversity they support are under threat from micro-plastic contamination.
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Affiliation(s)
- Chevonne Reynolds
- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST-NRF Centre of Excellence, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa; Statistics in Ecology, Environment and Conservation, Department of Statistical Sciences, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa.
| | - Peter G Ryan
- FitzPatrick Institute of African Ornithology, DST-NRF Centre of Excellence, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch 7701, South Africa
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Brach L, Deixonne P, Bernard MF, Durand E, Desjean MC, Perez E, van Sebille E, Ter Halle A. Anticyclonic eddies increase accumulation of microplastic in the North Atlantic subtropical gyre. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 126:191-196. [PMID: 29421088 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2017.10.077] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2017] [Revised: 10/25/2017] [Accepted: 10/26/2017] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
There are fundamental gaps in our understanding of the fates of microplastics in the ocean, which must be overcome if the severity of this pollution is to be fully assessed. The predominant pattern is high accumulation of microplastic in subtropical gyres. Using in situ measurements from the 7th Continent expedition in the North Atlantic subtropical gyre, data from satellite observations and models, we show how microplastic concentrations were up to 9.4 times higher in an anticyclonic eddy explored, compared to the cyclonic eddy. Although our sample size is small, this is the first suggestive evidence that mesoscale eddies might trap, concentrate and potentially transport microplastics. As eddies are known to congregate nutrients and organisms, this phenomenon should be considered with regards to the potential impact of plastic pollution on the ecosystem in the open ocean.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laurent Brach
- Laboratoire des Interactions Moléculaires et Réactivité Chimique et Photochimique (IMRCP), UMR CNRS 5623, Université Paul Sabatier-UPS, Bâtiment 2R1, 3ème étage, 118, route de Narbonne, 31062 Toulouse Cedex 09, France
| | - Patrick Deixonne
- Expédition Septième Continent, Rue des Vanniers Domaine de Marie, 97224 Ducos, Martinique, France
| | - Marie-France Bernard
- Expédition Septième Continent, Rue des Vanniers Domaine de Marie, 97224 Ducos, Martinique, France
| | - Edmée Durand
- Mercator Océan, Parc Technologique du Canal, 8-10 rue Hermès, 31520 Ramonville Saint Agne, France
| | | | - Emile Perez
- Laboratoire des Interactions Moléculaires et Réactivité Chimique et Photochimique (IMRCP), UMR CNRS 5623, Université Paul Sabatier-UPS, Bâtiment 2R1, 3ème étage, 118, route de Narbonne, 31062 Toulouse Cedex 09, France
| | - Erik van Sebille
- Grantham Institute & Department of Physics, Imperial College London, SW7 2AZ London, United Kingdom; Institute for Marine and Atmospheric research Utrecht, Utrecht University, 3584 CC, Netherlands
| | - Alexandra Ter Halle
- Laboratoire des Interactions Moléculaires et Réactivité Chimique et Photochimique (IMRCP), UMR CNRS 5623, Université Paul Sabatier-UPS, Bâtiment 2R1, 3ème étage, 118, route de Narbonne, 31062 Toulouse Cedex 09, France.
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24
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Gil-Delgado JA, Guijarro D, Gosálvez RU, López-Iborra GM, Ponz A, Velasco A. Presence of plastic particles in waterbirds faeces collected in Spanish lakes. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2017; 220:732-736. [PMID: 27667676 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2016.09.054] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/16/2016] [Revised: 09/15/2016] [Accepted: 09/16/2016] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
Plastic intake by marine vertebrates has been widely reported, but information about its presence in continental waterfowl is scarce. Here we analyzed faeces of waterbirds species (European coot, Fulica atra, mallard, Anas platyrhynchos and shelduck, Tadorna tadorna) for plastic debris in five wetlands in Central Spain. We collected 89 faeces of shelduck distributed in four lakes, 43.8% of them presented plastic remnants. Sixty percent of 10 faeces of European coot and 45% of 40 faeces of mallard contained plastic debris. Plastic debris found was of two types, threads and fragments, and were identified as remnants of plastic objects used in agricultural fields surrounding the lakes. Differences in prevalence of plastic in faeces, number of plastic pieces per excrement and size of the plastic pieces were not statistically significant between waterfowl species. Thus, our results suggest that plastic may also be frequently ingested by waterfowl in continental waters, at least in our study area. Future studies should address this potential problem for waterbird conservation in other wetlands to evaluate the real impact of this pollutant on waterbirds living in inland water.
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Affiliation(s)
- J A Gil-Delgado
- ICBiBE, Universidad de Valencia, Polígono La Coma, s/n, 46980 Paterna, Valencia, Spain.
| | - D Guijarro
- ICBiBE, Universidad de Valencia, Polígono La Coma, s/n, 46980 Paterna, Valencia, Spain
| | - R U Gosálvez
- Departamento de Geografía y Ordenación del Territorio, Universidad de Castilla La Mancha, Avda. Camilo José Cela, s/n, 13071 Ciudad Real, Spain.
| | - G M López-Iborra
- Departamento de Ecología - IMEM Ramon Margalef, Universidad de Alicante, Aptdo. 99, 03080 Alicante, Spain.
| | - A Ponz
- Departamento de Didáctica de las Ciencias Experimentales, Facultad de Ciencias Sociales y Humanas, Universidad de Zaragoza, C/ Ciudad Escolar, s/n, 44003 Teruel, Spain.
| | - A Velasco
- Departamento de Ciencias Ambientales, Universidad de Castilla-La Mancha, Campus Tecnológico de la Fábrica de Armas, Av. Carlos III, s/n, E-45071 Toledo, Spain.
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25
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Holland ER, Mallory ML, Shutler D. Plastics and other anthropogenic debris in freshwater birds from Canada. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2016; 571:251-8. [PMID: 27476006 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2016.07.158] [Citation(s) in RCA: 87] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/30/2016] [Revised: 07/20/2016] [Accepted: 07/23/2016] [Indexed: 05/10/2023]
Abstract
Plastics in marine environments are a global environmental issue. Plastic ingestion is associated with a variety of deleterious health effects in marine wildlife, and is a focus of much international research and monitoring. However, little research has focused on ramifications of plastic debris for freshwater organisms, despite marine and freshwater environments often having comparable plastic concentrations. We quantified plastic and other anthropogenic debris in 350 individuals of 17 freshwater and one marine bird species collected across Canada. We determined freshwater birds' anthropogenic debris ingestion rates to be 11.1% across all species studied. This work establishes that plastics and other anthropogenic debris are a genuine concern for management of the health of freshwater ecosystems, and provides a baseline for the prevalence of plastic and other anthropogenic debris ingestion in freshwater birds in Canada, with relevance for many other locations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Erika R Holland
- Department of Biology, Acadia University, Wolfville, NS B4P 2R6, Canada.
| | - Mark L Mallory
- Department of Biology, Acadia University, Wolfville, NS B4P 2R6, Canada.
| | - Dave Shutler
- Department of Biology, Acadia University, Wolfville, NS B4P 2R6, Canada.
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26
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Mallory ML, Elderkin MF, Spencer NC, Betsch TA, Russell AC, Mills PL. Diet ofCalidris maritima(Purple Sandpiper) during the Winter in Nova Scotia, Canada. Northeast Nat (Steuben) 2016. [DOI: 10.1656/045.023.0202] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
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27
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Ryan PG. Ingestion of Plastics by Marine Organisms. THE HANDBOOK OF ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY 2016. [DOI: 10.1007/698_2016_21] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/12/2022]
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