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Microplastics and Heavy Metals in Selected Surface Waters of Sulaymaniyah Governorate: Multivariate Analysis, Seasonal Variation, and Ecological Risk
Summary
Researchers tested surface waters in Sulaymaniyah, Iraq for tiny plastic particles (microplastics) and heavy metals, both of which can harm ecosystems and human health when they build up in water supplies. They found more microplastics and certain metals in winter than spring, suggesting seasonal weather patterns affect how much of these pollutants end up in the water we may eventually drink or use. This matters because it highlights that contamination risk isn't constant—it changes throughout the year, which is useful information for monitoring and protecting water safety.
Both Microplastics (MPs) and Heavy Metals (HMs) are among many other toxic substances that deteriorate ecosystems and organisms. The degradation of larger plastic debris results in MPs but may also be manufactured purposely as small pellets or as powders to serve commercial purpose; furthermore, if not handled properly, they will end up accumulating in the ecosystem. HMs are also used extensively in agriculture and some industries which eventually is for producing human beneficials; nevertheless, their enormous leaching into the environment is widely known for being disastrous to public health. This study monitored both of these dangerous substances, as well as major cations, in multiple interlinked surface water locations of the Sulaymaniyah Governorate; additionally, the chemicals were corelated and compared to other regional and worldwide studies. Ecological risk assessment (ERA) was also affixed to evaluate the problem more and warn the public about it. Seasonal comparison between winter and spring was done, and winter had more abundance of MPs and in some of the metals.