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Ecological and Socio-Economic Assessment of Ecotourism-Driven Microplastics Pollution at Elegushi Beach, Lagos, Nigeria
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Researchers found that a popular beach in Lagos, Nigeria gets significantly more polluted with tiny plastic particles, toxic metals, and chemical contaminants during peak tourist season—microplastics in sand increased by over 40% in just three months. This matters because these plastic particles and chemicals (including phthalates, which are linked to hormone disruption) can enter the food chain through fish and seafood, eventually ending up on our plates. The study is a reminder that beach tourism, while good for local economies, needs better waste management and regulation to keep both ecosystems and the people who rely on them healthy.
This study assessed ecotourism-driven microplastic pollution at Elegushi Beach, Lagos, Nigeria, through integrated analysis of water and sediment samples (January--March 2026) and public perception surveys (n=60). Microplastics were extracted through density separation and quantified using FTIR spectroscopy. Metallic elements and organic contaminants were analyzed using SEM-EDX and GC-MS, respectively. Microplastic concentrations in water ranged from 865 to 2,105 particles/m³ (mean: 1,370--1,574 particles/m³), increasing by 14.9% over three months. Sediment concentrations ranged from 1,320 to 3,730 particles/kg dw (mean: 2,093 - 2,958 particles/kg dw), increasing by 41.3% (p<0.05). This temporal increase coincides with the peak dry-season tourism period (January–March), characterized by intensified recreational activity and waste generation. Water samples were dominated by polyethylene (48.2%) and polypropylene (32.4%), while sediments were dominated by PET (33.7%), polyamide (21.5%), and polystyrene (19.3%). Metallic element concentrations included zinc (15.8 wt%) and copper (7.2 wt%) at station MCP 2, indicating antifouling paint inputs. Phthalates were highest at MCP 1 (7.3% area, DEHP 4.2%). Public awareness of microplastics was high (82.7%), yet only 50.0% recognized the tourism-pollution linkage; nonetheless, 73.8% supported stronger conservation policies. Ecotourism activities directly drive microplastic, metallic element, and organic pollutant accumulation at Elegushi Beach although it boosts the economies of Lagos State. Therefore, urgent regulatory interventions, improved waste management, and targeted environmental education are recommended to mitigate further ecological degradation.
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