1
|
de Deus BCT, Costa TC, Altomari LN, Brovini EM, de Brito PSD, Cardoso SJ. Coastal plastic pollution: A global perspective. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2024; 203:116478. [PMID: 38735173 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2024.116478] [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: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 04/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/06/2024] [Indexed: 05/14/2024]
Abstract
Coastal ecosystems have ecological importance worldwide and require control and prevention measures to mitigate human pollution. The objective of this study was to perform a systematic review to provide a comprehensive overview of the global issue of coastal plastic pollution. 689 articles were eligible for qualitative synthesis and 31 were considered for quantitative analysis. There was an exponential increase in articles addressing coastal plastic pollution over the past 50 years. Studies were mainly carried out on beaches, and plastic bottles were the most found item, followed by cigarette butts. Polyethylene was the predominant plastic polymer, and white microplastic fragments stood out. China published most articles on the topic and Brazil had the highest number of sites sampled. Meta-analysis had significant effect sizes based on the reported data. These findings carry significant implications for environmental policies, waste management practices, and targeted awareness campaigns aimed at mitigating plastic pollution.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Beatriz Corrêa Thomé de Deus
- Postgraduate Program in Biodiversity and Nature Conservation, Institute of Biology, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Rua José Lourenço Kelmer, 36036-900, São Pedro, Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Thaiane Cantarino Costa
- Postgraduate Program in Biodiversity and Nature Conservation, Institute of Biology, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Rua José Lourenço Kelmer, 36036-900, São Pedro, Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Leslie Nascimento Altomari
- Postgraduate Program in Biodiversity and Nature Conservation, Institute of Biology, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Rua José Lourenço Kelmer, 36036-900, São Pedro, Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Emília Marques Brovini
- Postgraduate Program in Environmental Engineering, Federal University of Ouro Preto, Campus Universitário, Morro do Cruzeiro, 35400-000 Ouro Preto, Minas Gerais, Brazil
| | - Paulo Sérgio Duque de Brito
- VALORIZA Research Centre, Polytechnic Institute of Portalegre, Campus Politécnico, 10, 7300-555 Portalegre, Portalegre, Portugal
| | - Simone Jaqueline Cardoso
- Postgraduate Program in Biodiversity and Nature Conservation, Institute of Biology, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Rua José Lourenço Kelmer, 36036-900, São Pedro, Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil; Department of Zoology, Institute of Biology, Federal University of Juiz de Fora, Rua José Lourenço Kelmer, 36036-900, São Pedro, Juiz de Fora, Minas Gerais, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Soursou V, Campo J, Picó Y. Spatio-temporal variation and ecological risk assessment of microplastics along the touristic beaches of a mediterranean coast transect (Valencia province, East Spain). JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 354:120315. [PMID: 38350278 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2024.120315] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/31/2023] [Revised: 02/06/2024] [Accepted: 02/07/2024] [Indexed: 02/15/2024]
Abstract
Annually, the Mediterranean region attracts around one-third of the global coastal tourism, which is acknowledged as a substantial contributor to plastic pollution. Coastal municipalities mitigate this through periodic sand and shore cleaning. However, the efficacy of these measures remains uncertain. In this study, the occurrence of MPs (10 μm-5 mm) in sand from seven different, regularly cleaned, touristic beaches of the coastline of Valencia province (E Spain) was assessed. Two different sampling campaigns were performed in winter and in summer (2022) to compare the results and understand the influence of the high touristic activity, as well as, the efficiency of the measures taken against MPs pollution. The methodology used was designed specifically for the matrix and employed density separation using a Sediment Microplastic Isolation (SMI) Unit. In addition to conventional visual inspection and ATR-FTIR, automatic quantification and identification of the polymers of lower size was performed by μFTIR. The average MPs concentration in the summer (339 ± 92 MP kg-1 by stereomicroscopy and 339 ± 189 MP kg-1 by μFTIR) was significantly higher than in the winter (71 ± 92 MP kg-1 and 143 ± 85 MP kg-1) (p < 0.05). The combination of these analytical tools provides comprehensive information about the MPs present in beach sand. Fibers were the most abundant form of MPs, while most of the polymers analyzed were polyethylene (PE) and halogenated polystyrene (Cl-PS and Br-PS) with food packaging, swimming equipment and fishing nets being their most probable sources. Ecological risk assessment was performed through the Pollution Load Index (PLI), the Hazardous Index (HI) and the Risk Quotient (RQ), with the results indicating potential risk that ranges from moderate to high depending on the applied approach.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vasiliki Soursou
- Environmental and Food Safety Research Group of the University of Valencia (SAMA-UV), Desertification Research Centre CIDE (CSIC-UV-GV), Road CV-315 Km 10.7, 46113, Moncada, Valencia, Spain.
| | - Julián Campo
- Environmental and Food Safety Research Group of the University of Valencia (SAMA-UV), Desertification Research Centre CIDE (CSIC-UV-GV), Road CV-315 Km 10.7, 46113, Moncada, Valencia, Spain
| | - Yolanda Picó
- Environmental and Food Safety Research Group of the University of Valencia (SAMA-UV), Desertification Research Centre CIDE (CSIC-UV-GV), Road CV-315 Km 10.7, 46113, Moncada, Valencia, Spain
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Bošković N, Jaćimović Ž, Bajt O. Microplastic pollution in rivers of the Adriatic Sea basin in Montenegro: Impact on pollution of the Montenegrin coastline. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 905:167206. [PMID: 37730057 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167206] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/18/2023] [Revised: 08/30/2023] [Accepted: 09/17/2023] [Indexed: 09/22/2023]
Abstract
Concern regarding microplastic (MP) pollution in aquatic ecosystems has increased in recent years with growing awareness of the environmental harm that it causes. While most studies have focused on seas and oceans, knowledge of MP occurrence in freshwater sediments is limited. This study investigated MP concentrations at shore sediments of the Zeta, Morača, and Bojana rivers in Montenegro. The MP concentration in the studied samples varied depending on the river, location, and sampling season. MP abundance in river shore sediments varied between mean values of 145 ± 110 MPs/kg for the Zeta, 169 ± 113 MPs/kg for the Morača, and 180 ± 53.5 MPs/kg dry sediment for the Bojana. In comparison, the mean MP abundance in the three rivers combined was 163.6 ± 96.1 MPs/kg of dry sediment. The identified MPs were mainly fibres and fragments of blue, red and clear color, 0.5-1 mm in size, and mainly composed of polyethylene, polypropylene, polyamide and polyethylene terephthalate. The main contribution of this study is that it provides new insight into MP abundance in freshwater sediments of rivers, where the studied rivers were identified as a potential important sink and source of MP on the Montenegrin coast.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Neda Bošković
- Centre for Interdisciplinary and Multidisciplinary Studies, University of Montenegro, Cetinjski put b.b. 81000 Podgorica, Montenegro.
| | - Željko Jaćimović
- Faculty of Metallurgy and Technology, University of Montenegro, Cetinjski put b.b. 81000 Podgorica, Montenegro
| | - Oliver Bajt
- National Institute of Biology, Marine Biology Station, Fornače 41, 6330 Piran, Slovenia; Faculty of maritime studies and Transport, University of Ljubljana, Pot pomorscakov 4, 6320 Portoroz, Slovenia
| |
Collapse
|
4
|
Cofano V, Mele D, Lacalamita M, Di Leo P, Scardino G, Bravo B, Cammarota F, Capolongo D. Microplastics in inland and offshore sediments in the Apulo-Lucanian region (Southern Italy). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 197:115775. [PMID: 37979531 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.115775] [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: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 10/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/20/2023]
Abstract
Inland and offshore sediments from Southern Italy were studied in order to evaluate the occurrence and nature of microplastics (MPs). Inland sediments were collected in the Bradano and Basento rivers (Apulo-Lucanian region, Southern Italy), while offshore sediments were collected on the continental shelf near Bari (Adriatic Sea) and Metaponto (Ionian Sea). MPs were detected and characterized using optical microscopy, micro-Fourier-Transform Infrared spectroscopy (μ-FTIR) and micro-Raman analyses. The number of MPs present varied between 144 and 1246 kg-1 of dry sediment (468.8 ± 410,7 MPs kg-1) with a predominance of black fibers; no correlation emerged between MPs and sediment grain size. In river sediments, the occurrence of MPs is associated with local pollution, whereas the offshore occurrence of MPs depends on seasonal river flow and submarine canyons. Compositional analyses suggest that the main source of MPs in the studied sediments is sewage discharge from residential areas.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vito Cofano
- Department of Earth and Geoenvironmental Sciences, Campus Universitario, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Edoardo Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy.
| | - Daniela Mele
- Department of Earth and Geoenvironmental Sciences, Campus Universitario, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Edoardo Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Maria Lacalamita
- Department of Earth and Geoenvironmental Sciences, Campus Universitario, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Edoardo Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Paola Di Leo
- CNR-IMAA, Tito Scalo, Potenza I-85050, Italy; School of Specialization in Archaeological Heritage, SSBA DiCEM - Department of European and Mediterranean Cultures, University of Basilicata, Matera, Italy
| | - Giovanni Scardino
- Department of Earth and Geoenvironmental Sciences, Campus Universitario, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Edoardo Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| | - Barbara Bravo
- Thermo Fisher Scientific, Str. Rivoltana, Km 4, 20090 Rodano, MI, Italy
| | - Francesca Cammarota
- ARPAB, Regional Agency for Environmental Protection of Basilicata, Matera, Italy
| | - Domenico Capolongo
- Department of Earth and Geoenvironmental Sciences, Campus Universitario, University of Bari Aldo Moro, Via Edoardo Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
5
|
Ta AT, Babel S. Occurrence and spatial distribution of microplastic contaminated with heavy metals in a tropical river: Effect of land use and population density. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 191:114919. [PMID: 37060892 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2023.114919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/10/2023] [Revised: 03/16/2023] [Accepted: 04/04/2023] [Indexed: 05/13/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics are of concern due to their potential environmental risks. This research aims to find the effect of land use (agriculture, urban, and aquaculture) and population density on the abundance of microplastics contaminated with heavy metals in surface water and sediment of the Chao Phraya River in Thailand. Results indicated that population density is directly correlated with increased microplastic abundance. Most microplastics were found in the urban zone (water: 80 ± 38 items/m3 and sediment: 62 ± 11 items/kg) and were small fragments (0.05 to 0.3 mm). Polymer types of polypropylene and polyethylene were commonly found. Heavy metals of Cr, Cu, Cd, Pb, Zn, Ni, and Ti were detected in microplastics in water and sediment, with Cu, Pb, and Zn being the most dominant. Heavy metals in microplastics were highest in the agriculture zone. In general, the presence of metals on microplastics may potentially impact the ecosystem and human health.
Collapse
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.
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Romano E, Bergamin L, Di Bella L, Baini M, Berto D, D'Ambrosi A, Di Fazio M, Galli M, Medeghini L, Panti C, Provenzani C, Rampazzo F, Fossi MC. First record of microplastic in the environmental matrices of a Mediterranean marine cave (Bue Marino, Sardinia, Italy). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2023; 186:114452. [PMID: 36473244 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.114452] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/04/2022] [Revised: 11/25/2022] [Accepted: 11/26/2022] [Indexed: 06/17/2023]
Abstract
This study investigates for the first time the presence of microplastics in sediment, water, and benthic organisms (foraminifera) of a marine cave in the Gulf of Orosei (Sardinia, Italy). Microplastics were found in all water, and sediment samples with similar shapes, sizes, and compositions; identified items were mainly fragments and fibers constituted by PVC and polyethylene. Their provenance was supposed to be predominantly from the sea than from the seasonal freshwater supplies from the karst system. Foraminiferal assemblages were mainly constituted by calcareous hyaline taxa in the outer station, while in the inner ones, the agglutinated Eggerelloides advenus was dominant. FTIR analyses on agglutinated shells identified polyethylene. Microplastic items are collected by the foraminifers and sediment grains building the shell chambers. This is the first study providing evidence that marine caves may be collectors of microplastics and that, in these habitats, microplastics enter the biotic matrix at the protist's level.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Elena Romano
- ISPRA, Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Rome, Italy.
| | - Luisa Bergamin
- ISPRA, Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Rome, Italy
| | - Letizia Di Bella
- Sapienza, University of Rome, Department of Earth Science, Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Baini
- University of Siena, Department of Environmental, Earth and Physical Sciences, Siena, Italy
| | - Daniela Berto
- ISPRA, Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Rome, Italy
| | | | - Melania Di Fazio
- Sapienza, University of Rome, Department of Earth Science, Rome, Italy
| | - Matteo Galli
- University of Siena, Department of Environmental, Earth and Physical Sciences, Siena, Italy
| | - Laura Medeghini
- Sapienza, University of Rome, Department of Earth Science, Rome, Italy
| | - Cristina Panti
- University of Siena, Department of Environmental, Earth and Physical Sciences, Siena, Italy; NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, Palermo, Italy
| | | | - Federico Rampazzo
- ISPRA, Institute for Environmental Protection and Research, Rome, Italy
| | - Maria Cristina Fossi
- University of Siena, Department of Environmental, Earth and Physical Sciences, Siena, Italy; NBFC, National Biodiversity Future Center, Palermo, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Fiore L, Serranti S, Mazziotti C, Riccardi E, Benzi M, Bonifazi G. Classification and distribution of freshwater microplastics along the Italian Po river by hyperspectral imaging. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2022; 29:48588-48606. [PMID: 35195863 PMCID: PMC9252960 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-022-18501-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 15] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2021] [Accepted: 12/31/2021] [Indexed: 06/13/2023]
Abstract
In this work, freshwater microplastic samples collected from four different stations along the Italian Po river were characterized in terms of abundance, distribution, category, morphological and morphometrical features, and polymer type. The correlation between microplastic category and polymer type was also evaluated. Polymer identification was carried out developing and implementing a new and effective hierarchical classification logic applied to hyperspectral images acquired in the short-wave infrared range (SWIR: 1000-2500 nm). Results showed that concentration of microplastics ranged from 1.89 to 8.22 particles/m3, the most abundant category was fragment, followed by foam, granule, pellet, and filament and the most diffused polymers were expanded polystyrene followed by polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyamide, polyethylene terephthalate and polyvinyl chloride, with some differences in polymer distribution among stations. The application of hyperspectral imaging (HSI) as a rapid and non-destructive method to classify freshwater microplastics for environmental monitoring represents a completely innovative approach in this field.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Ludovica Fiore
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Materials & Environment, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Eudossiana 18, 00184, Rome, Italy
| | - Silvia Serranti
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Materials & Environment, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Eudossiana 18, 00184, Rome, Italy.
| | - Cristina Mazziotti
- ARPAE, Regional Agency for Environmental Prevention and Energy of Emilia-Romagna, Oceanographic Unit Daphne - V. le Vespucci 2, 47042, Cesenatico, FC, Italy
| | - Elena Riccardi
- ARPAE, Regional Agency for Environmental Prevention and Energy of Emilia-Romagna, Oceanographic Unit Daphne - V. le Vespucci 2, 47042, Cesenatico, FC, Italy
| | - Margherita Benzi
- ARPAE, Regional Agency for Environmental Prevention and Energy of Emilia-Romagna, Oceanographic Unit Daphne - V. le Vespucci 2, 47042, Cesenatico, FC, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Bonifazi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Materials & Environment, Sapienza University of Rome, Via Eudossiana 18, 00184, Rome, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Rimondi V, Monnanni A, De Beni E, Bicocchi G, Chelazzi D, Cincinelli A, Fratini S, Martellini T, Morelli G, Venturi S, Lattanzi P, Costagliola P. Occurrence and Quantification of Natural and Microplastic Items in Urban Streams: The Case of Mugnone Creek (Florence, Italy). TOXICS 2022; 10:toxics10040159. [PMID: 35448420 PMCID: PMC9025813 DOI: 10.3390/toxics10040159] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/28/2022] [Revised: 03/09/2022] [Accepted: 03/23/2022] [Indexed: 02/04/2023]
Abstract
The terrestrial environment is an important contributor of microplastics (MPs) to the oceans. Urban streams, strictly interwoven in the city network and to the MPs’ terrestrial source, have a relevant impact on the MP budget of large rivers and, in turn, marine areas. We investigated the fluxes (items/day) of MPs and natural fibers of Mugnone Creek, a small stream crossing the highly urbanized landscape of Florence (Italy) and ending in the Arno River (and eventually to the Tyrrhenian Sea). Measurements were done in dry and wet seasons for two years (2019–2020); stream sediments were also collected in 2019. The highest loads of anthropogenic particles were observed in the 2019 wet season (109 items/day) at the creek outlet. The number of items in sediments increased from upstream (500 items/kg) to urban sites (1540 items/kg). Fibers were the dominant shape class; they were mostly cellulosic in composition. Among synthetic items, fragments of butadiene-styrene (SBR), indicative of tire wear, were observed. Domestic wastewater discharge and vehicular traffic are important sources of pollution for Mugnone Creek, especially during rain events. The study of small creeks is of pivotal importance to limit the availability of MPs in the environment.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Valentina Rimondi
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Florence, Via G. La Pira 4, 50121 Florence, Italy; (A.M.); (G.B.); (S.V.); (P.C.)
- IGG-CNR, Via G. La Pira 4, 50121 Florence, Italy; (G.M.); (P.L.)
- Correspondence:
| | - Alessio Monnanni
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Florence, Via G. La Pira 4, 50121 Florence, Italy; (A.M.); (G.B.); (S.V.); (P.C.)
| | - Eleonora De Beni
- Department of Chemistry “Ugo Schiff”, University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia 3, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy; (E.D.B.); (D.C.); (A.C.); (T.M.)
| | - Gabriele Bicocchi
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Florence, Via G. La Pira 4, 50121 Florence, Italy; (A.M.); (G.B.); (S.V.); (P.C.)
| | - David Chelazzi
- Department of Chemistry “Ugo Schiff”, University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia 3, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy; (E.D.B.); (D.C.); (A.C.); (T.M.)
- Consorzio Interuniversitario per lo Sviluppo dei Sistemi a Grande Interfase (CSGI), University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia 3, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Alessandra Cincinelli
- Department of Chemistry “Ugo Schiff”, University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia 3, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy; (E.D.B.); (D.C.); (A.C.); (T.M.)
- Consorzio Interuniversitario per lo Sviluppo dei Sistemi a Grande Interfase (CSGI), University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia 3, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Sara Fratini
- Department of Biology, University of Florence, Via Madonna del Piano 6, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy;
| | - Tania Martellini
- Department of Chemistry “Ugo Schiff”, University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia 3, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy; (E.D.B.); (D.C.); (A.C.); (T.M.)
- Consorzio Interuniversitario per lo Sviluppo dei Sistemi a Grande Interfase (CSGI), University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia 3, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Guia Morelli
- IGG-CNR, Via G. La Pira 4, 50121 Florence, Italy; (G.M.); (P.L.)
| | - Stefania Venturi
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Florence, Via G. La Pira 4, 50121 Florence, Italy; (A.M.); (G.B.); (S.V.); (P.C.)
- IGG-CNR, Via G. La Pira 4, 50121 Florence, Italy; (G.M.); (P.L.)
| | | | - Pilario Costagliola
- Department of Earth Sciences, University of Florence, Via G. La Pira 4, 50121 Florence, Italy; (A.M.); (G.B.); (S.V.); (P.C.)
- IGG-CNR, Via G. La Pira 4, 50121 Florence, Italy; (G.M.); (P.L.)
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Yin L, Wen X, Huang D, Zeng G, Deng R, Liu R, Zhou Z, Tao J, Xiao R, Pan H. Microplastics retention by reeds in freshwater environment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2021; 790:148200. [PMID: 34380270 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2021.148200] [Citation(s) in RCA: 44] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/08/2021] [Revised: 05/11/2021] [Accepted: 05/28/2021] [Indexed: 05/26/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution has recently gained increasing attention. The accumulation of microplastics in plants has been confirmed in the marine environment. However, the extent of the microplastic retention in freshwater plants is still unknown. In this study, sediment and plant samples from six reed farms in the wetland of East Dongting Lake were collected and analyzed. The abundance of microplastics in the sediment of reed farms varied from 125.7 to 1219.5 items/kg dry weight (dw), with an average of 511.2 ± 295.0 items/kg. Moreover, different levels of microplastic abundance were found in reeds from 0 to 14 items/individual. The abundance of microplastics in sediment samples was moderate compared to that worldwide and higher than that in other regions of Dongting Lake. The microplastic pollution level was significantly higher in the reed vegetation belt than that in other sampling positions. On the basis of the distribution and characteristics of the collected microplastics, lake water and fishery are suggested as important sources of microplastics. Furthermore, the factors influencing microplastic retention in the reeds are discussed. This study, as the first direct evidence demonstrating that freshwater reeds tend to accumulate microplastics, constitutes valuable reference for future research.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Lingshi Yin
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Xiaofeng Wen
- School of Hydraulic Engineering, Changsha University of Science and Technology, Changsha 410114, China; Key Laboratory of Dongting Lake Aquatic Eco-Environmental Control and Restoration of Hunan Province, Changsha 410114, China
| | - Danlian Huang
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China.
| | - Guangming Zeng
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China.
| | - Rui Deng
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Ruyi Liu
- School of Hydraulic Engineering, Changsha University of Science and Technology, Changsha 410114, China; Key Laboratory of Dongting Lake Aquatic Eco-Environmental Control and Restoration of Hunan Province, Changsha 410114, China
| | - Zhenyu Zhou
- School of Hydraulic Engineering, Changsha University of Science and Technology, Changsha 410114, China; Key Laboratory of Dongting Lake Aquatic Eco-Environmental Control and Restoration of Hunan Province, Changsha 410114, China
| | - Jiaxi Tao
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Ruihao Xiao
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Hunan University, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China; Key Laboratory of Environmental Biology and Pollution Control (Hunan University), Ministry of Education, Changsha, Hunan 410082, China
| | - Heming Pan
- School of Hydraulic Engineering, Changsha University of Science and Technology, Changsha 410114, China
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Razeghi N, Hamidian AH, Wu C, Zhang Y, Yang M. Microplastic sampling techniques in freshwaters and sediments: a review. ENVIRONMENTAL CHEMISTRY LETTERS 2021; 19:4225-4252. [PMID: 34025333 PMCID: PMC8130988 DOI: 10.1007/s10311-021-01227-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2020] [Accepted: 03/13/2021] [Indexed: 05/09/2023]
Abstract
Pollution by microplastics is of increasing concern due to their ubiquitous presence in most biological and environmental media, their potential toxicity and their ability to carry other contaminants. Knowledge on microplastics in freshwaters is still in its infancy. Here we reviewed 150 investigations to identify the common methods and tools for sampling microplastics, waters and sediments in freshwater ecosystems. Manta trawls are the main sampling tool for microplastic separation from surface water, whereas shovel, trowel, spade, scoop and spatula are the most frequently used devices in microplastic studies of sediments. Van Veen grab is common for deep sediment sampling. There is a need to develop optimal methods for reducing identification time and effort and to detect smaller-sized plastic particles.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Nastaran Razeghi
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Tehran, P.O. Box 4314, Karaj, 31587-77878 Iran
| | - Amir Hossein Hamidian
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Tehran, P.O. Box 4314, Karaj, 31587-77878 Iran
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Aquatic Chemistry, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085 China
| | - Chenxi Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan, 430072 China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049 PR China
| | - Yu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Aquatic Chemistry, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085 China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049 PR China
| | - Min Yang
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Faculty of Natural Resources, University of Tehran, P.O. Box 4314, Karaj, 31587-77878 Iran
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Aquatic Chemistry, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100085 China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049 PR China
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Impacts of Plastic-Made Packaging on Marine Key Species: Effects Following Water Acidification and Ecological Implications. JOURNAL OF MARINE SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING 2021. [DOI: 10.3390/jmse9040432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/16/2022]
Abstract
This study evaluates the impacts of 16 different leachates of plastic-made packaging on marine species of different trophic levels (bacteria, algae, echinoderms). Standard ecotoxicological endpoints (inhibition of bioluminescence, inhibition of growth, embryo-toxicity) and alterations of ecologically significant parameters (i.e., echinoderms’ body-size) were measured following exposure under different pH water conditions: marine standard (pH 8.1) and two increasingly acidic conditions (pH 7.8 and 7.5) in order to evaluate possible variations induced by ocean acidification. The results obtained in this study evidence that the tested doses are not able to significantly affect bacteria (Vibrio fischeri) and algae (Phaeodactylum tricornutum). On the contrary, Paracentrotus lividus larvae were significantly affected by several packaging types (13 out of 16) with meaningless differences between pH conditions.
Collapse
|
12
|
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: 33] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.3] [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.
Collapse
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.
| |
Collapse
|
13
|
Transport and Deposition of Microplastics and Mesoplastics along the River Course: A Case Study of a Small River in Central Italy. HYDROLOGY 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/hydrology7040090] [Citation(s) in RCA: 23] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/22/2022]
Abstract
The release of plastics in freshwater is an increasing concern for ecosystem safety worldwide. There is a large knowledge gap on plastic pollution in Mediterranean freshwater, especially regarding surveys along entire river courses, partly due to the absence of guidelines for standardized monitoring of plastics. The present study analyzes the plastic distribution from source to mouth, also according to the River Continuum Concept, of the environmental matrices (water and sediments) and biota (caddisfly cases) of the Mediterranean River Mignone and their cause-effect relationship. The results of the water quality indices (Extended Biotic Index and Fluvial Functionality Index) were compared with the plastic concentrations observed in the water and sediments to explore what relationship there might be and to understand if the indices could be a proxy of the plastic pollution. Our results showed a significant prevalence of blue fibers, the concentration of which in water and sediment is positively associated. Plastic concentration at each site was not accurately detected by the water quality indices. These results may suggest that the factors considered by water quality indices are not able to detect the contamination of plastic pollution. It is mandatory to identify new tools for assessing the plastic impacts on river ecosystems.
Collapse
|
14
|
Knowledge about Microplastic in Mediterranean Tributary River Ecosystems: Lack of Data and Research Needs on Such a Crucial Marine Pollution Source. JOURNAL OF MARINE SCIENCE AND ENGINEERING 2020. [DOI: 10.3390/jmse8030216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 22] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/26/2022]
Abstract
Plastic debris occurring in freshwater environments, which can either come from the surrounding terrestrial areas or transported from upstream, has been identified as one of the main sources and routes of plastic pollution in marine systems. The ocean is the final destination of land- based microplastic sources, but compared to marine environments, the occurrence and effects of microplastics in freshwater ecosystems remain largely unknown. A thorough examination of scientific literature on abundance, distribution patterns, and characteristics of microplastics in freshwater environments in Mediterranean tributary rivers has shown a substantial lack of information and the need to apply adequate and uniform measurement methods.
Collapse
|
15
|
Alves VEN, Figueiredo GM. Microplastic in the sediments of a highly eutrophic tropical estuary. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2019; 146:326-335. [PMID: 31426163 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2019.06.042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 37] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/24/2019] [Revised: 06/15/2019] [Accepted: 06/16/2019] [Indexed: 06/10/2023]
Abstract
Given the implications of microplastics contamination in aquatic ecosystems and information scarcity about microplastic abundances in estuarine sediments, this study aimed to quantify and describe the microplastics in the sublittoral sediments from Guanabara Bay. Sediment samples were collected at four sites and three months, microplastics were separated and classified according to type, color, size, and polymer composition. High abundances of microplastic (160 to 1000 items kg-1 or 4367 to 25,794 items m-2) occurred independent of area or period, indicating microplastics are widely spread in Guanabara Bay. The dominant microplastic in the sediment was the translucent polyester microfiber of <1 mm size; which is a secondary microplastic, possibly coming from washing machines wastes. The extremely high availability of microplastics in Guanabara Bay, compared to the majority of studies around the world, suggests high risk of contamination to benthic organisms and demersal fish, as they may be ingesting microplastics.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vivianne E N Alves
- Biology Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; Postgraduate Program in Marine Biology and Coastal Environments, Federal University Fluminense, Niterói, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
| | - Gisela M Figueiredo
- Biology Institute, Federal University of Rio de Janeiro, Rio de Janeiro, Brazil.
| |
Collapse
|
16
|
Renzi M, Čižmek H, Blašković A. Marine litter in sediments related to ecological features in impacted sites and marine protected areas (Croatia). MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2019; 138:25-29. [PMID: 30660271 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.11.030] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.6] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/07/2018] [Revised: 11/09/2018] [Accepted: 11/13/2018] [Indexed: 05/23/2023]
Abstract
This study estimates levels of marine litter including plastics (macro-, meso- and microplastics) in sediments collected in shallow marine water from Croatia (Central Adriatic Sea). Selected sampling areas are characterized by different human pressure: Silba is highly stressed by tourism while Grebena is listed as marine protected area (MPA) of future institution. Obtained results on marine litter in sediments are correlated to ecological features recorded in each sampling site. Marine litter in collected sediments ranged within 180-528 items/kg d.w. Macroplastics were not recorded while mesoplastics were 1.3-4.8%. On a general basis, fibres are higher than microplastics. In Južni Greben, level of fragments higher than fibres was recorded. A slight significance of the factor "water depth" was evidenced by the statistical analyses exploring relationships among marine litter and ecological features. Furthermore, Silba and Grebena Islands showed a significant different assessment of size, shape and colour features. These results suggest different sources/dynamics affecting marine litter recorded in marine areas stressed by tourism compared to MPA.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monia Renzi
- Bioscience Research Center, Via Aurelia Vecchia, 32, 58015 Orbetello, GR, Italy.
| | - Hrvoje Čižmek
- Marine Explorers Society - 20000 Leagues, Put Bokanjca 26A, 23000 Zadar, ZD, Croatia
| | - Andrea Blašković
- Bioscience Research Center, Via Aurelia Vecchia, 32, 58015 Orbetello, GR, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
17
|
Martellini T, Guerranti C, Scopetani C, Ugolini A, Chelazzi D, Cincinelli A. A snapshot of microplastics in the coastal areas of the Mediterranean Sea. Trends Analyt Chem 2018. [DOI: 10.1016/j.trac.2018.09.028] [Citation(s) in RCA: 35] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/23/2023]
|
18
|
Renzi M, Blašković A, Bernardi G, Russo GF. Plastic litter transfer from sediments towards marine trophic webs: A case study on holothurians. MARINE POLLUTION BULLETIN 2018; 135:376-385. [PMID: 30301049 DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2018.07.038] [Citation(s) in RCA: 13] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/04/2018] [Revised: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/14/2018] [Indexed: 06/08/2023]
Abstract
This study estimates for the very first time plastic litter levels in sea cucumbers (Echinodermata, Holothuroidea) sampled in situ and their intakes from sediments in three different rocky bottom habitats (slides, cliff, banks) settled in Salina Island (Aeolian Archipelago). Macroplastic were never recorded while meso- and microplastics were identified in all sediment (81-438 items/kg d.w.) and animal samples (1.8-22 items/ind.). Plastic intakes by sea cucumbers resulted frequently associated to the size range included within 100-2000 μm. Over than 70% of ingested plastic litter is represented by the size fraction >500 μm. Sediment/animals ratios % are included 2.7 ± 2.0% in studied habitats with a selective intake of fragments occurring in slides. Furthermore, results support the occurrence of selective ingestion of plastic litter by holothurians in natural environments underlining the role of these species in microplastic transfer from abiotic towards biotic compartments of the marine trophic web.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Monia Renzi
- Bioscience Research Center, Via Aurelia Vecchia, 32, 58015 Orbetello, GR, Italy.
| | - Andrea Blašković
- Bioscience Research Center, Via Aurelia Vecchia, 32, 58015 Orbetello, GR, Italy
| | - Giulia Bernardi
- Department of Sciences for the Environment, University of Naples Parthenope, Via A. De Gasperi 5, 80133 Naples, Italy
| | - Giovanni F Russo
- Department of Sciences for the Environment, University of Naples Parthenope, Via A. De Gasperi 5, 80133 Naples, Italy
| |
Collapse
|