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Microplastics in tropical coastal and river sediments in a non-industrial urban area: Correlations with land use and potential sources
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Researchers studying rivers and coastlines in Aceh, Indonesia found that microplastic pollution wasn't just about nearby factories—it was tied to how crowded an area was and how well waste was managed. Surprisingly, tourist beaches had less microplastic contamination than non-tourist areas, likely because they're cleaned more carefully. Since microplastics can enter the food chain (including seafood we eat) and their health effects are still being studied, understanding where they come from—even in places without heavy industry—helps communities target cleanup and waste management efforts where they're needed most.
This study investigated the complex relationships among environmental factors in coastal settings and identified potential sources of microplastics in tropical coastal and river sediments within a non-industrial urban area. The research was conducted along the northern coast of Aceh, Indonesia, encompassing two river estuaries: the Krueng Aceh and Krueng Lamnyong. The results indicate that land use, population density, and distance from the river estuary influence the distribution of microplastics in coastal sediments. The Krueng Aceh River, which is associated with a higher population density, exhibited greater levels of microplastic contamination than the Krueng Lamnyong River. The formation of estuarine turbidity maxima (ETM) is considered a key factor controlling microplastic distribution along the Krueng Aceh River, whereas distribution patterns in the Krueng Lamnyong River appear to be more strongly influenced by local anthropogenic activities and environmental conditions. The study area is distinctive because, despite the absence of major industrial sources, identifying microplastic origins remains complex. In coastal zones, tourist sites tend to exhibit lower microplastic abundances, likely due to stricter waste management practices, whereas non-tourist areas show higher levels of contamination. This study provides new insights into the distribution and potential sources of microplastics in tropical non-industrial urban environments and offers a foundation for developing more effective mitigation strategies for microplastic pollution.
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Researchers assessed microplastic abundance, type, and spatial distribution in coastal water, sediments, and fish across three zones of Gili Trawangan, Indonesia, finding that tourism-related activities concentrated microplastics at recreational beaches with concentrations reaching 19.25 particles/L.
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Researchers found tiny plastic fragments—mostly bits of plastic film from packaging—scattered across beach sediments in a busy Indonesian coastal city, largely coming from household trash washing into the ocean near fishing communities. Half of these plastic particles were smaller than 1mm, meaning they're small enough to easily enter the food chain through fish and seafood that people eat. This matters because it shows how everyday plastic waste and weak trash disposal systems can directly pollute the seafood many coastal communities rely on for food.
Urbanization Impacts on Microplastic in Benthic Organisms and Sediment of Small Islands
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Researchers investigated how urbanisation on small islands in Indonesia affects microplastic contamination levels in benthic organisms and sediments, examining the impact of land use conversions from pristine ecosystems to settlements and tourism facilities.
The abundance of microplastics in coral reef ecosystems in the waters of Krueng Raya, Aceh Besar
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Researchers measured microplastic abundance in coral reef ecosystems in the waters of Krueng Raya, Aceh Besar, Indonesia. They found microplastics in both sediment and water column samples, with pollution likely originating from tourism, fishing, and domestic waste. The study highlights the threat that microplastic contamination poses to the health and balance of coral reef ecosystems in the region.
Distribution of Microplastics in Coastal Waters and Their Implications for the Marine Food Chain
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Researchers sampled surface water, sediments, and marine organisms from urban, industrial, and conservation coastal zones in Indonesia to assess microplastic distribution and food chain implications. Industrial zones had the highest microplastic concentrations, and filter feeders accumulated more particles than fin fish, indicating distinct exposure pathways through the marine food web.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.