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Assessment of microplastic pollution on coasts in anthropogenic areas using ecological risk indices
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Scientists studying beaches along Turkey's Marmara Sea coast found tiny plastic bits called microplastics in every sample they tested, with pollution levels spiking in winter—likely from rain and runoff washing more plastic into the water. Using multiple risk-scoring tools, they rated the ecological danger as "very high" to "extremely dangerous," which matters because these same plastic fragments (often from clothing fibers and packaging materials) can enter the food chain through fish and shellfish, potentially ending up on our plates. The findings underscore the need for stronger pollution controls, especially in coastal areas near cities
Microplastics (MPs) are common pollutants in coastal habitats and pose a significant threat to marine ecosystems. However, studies that integrate seasonal variability, physicochemical characteristics, and multiple ecological risk indicators along the southern coast of the Marmara Sea remain limited. This study presents the first comprehensive assessments of MP pollution in the coastal sediments of Gemlik Gulf by integrating seasonal variability, MP characteristics, and 10 complementary indices of pollution, ecological risk, and diversity. Analyses were performed on sediment samples collected seasonally from five beaches in Bursa Province, Türkiye. Pollution levels (CFI, PLI, CMPI, and MPPI), ecological risk (PHI, PERI, and ESI), and diversity indices (Shannon, Pielou, and Simpson) were calculated to assess MP pollution loads and potential ecological risks. MP abundances showed significant seasonal but not spatial variations, peaking in winter (226 ± 109 MP kg), followed by spring (160 ± 31 MP kg), summer (95 ± 25 MP kg), and autumn (75 ± 28 MP kg). Fibers predominated at most beaches (35-44%), whereas fragments dominated others (39-57%). MPs were predominantly black (28.0%) and white (23.3%), with the 0.5-1 mm fraction comprising 35-39% of the total. Major polymers were polypropylene (PP, 28.6%), polyamide (PA, 19.9%), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC, 10.5%). PERI and PHI indicated potential ecological risks corresponding to the "Very High" and "Extremely Dangerous" categories. These findings highlight the need for management strategies to mitigate MP pollution.
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Researchers assessed microplastic contamination in five commercially important fish species and Mediterranean mussels from the southern Marmara Sea in Turkey. They found microplastics in all species examined, with varying levels of contamination across different collection sites, and calculated hazard indices to estimate potential risks. The study provides evidence that seafood consumers in the region may face meaningful dietary exposure to microplastics.
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Researchers conducted the first comprehensive microplastic survey of Turkey's Black Sea coast, documenting a roughly 78% annual increase in surface water particle concentrations and a threefold rise at some sediment stations, with fibers and high-risk polymers like PET and PVC dominating both matrices and most sites rated high ecological risk.
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Researchers assessed microplastic contamination in fish, mollusks, and sediment from the Sea of Marmara in Turkey. They found microplastics in all species examined, averaging about 2 to 3 particles per individual, with fibers and polyethylene terephthalate being the most common types. The results indicate widespread microplastic pollution throughout this marine environment that may accumulate through the food web.
A Comprehensive Identification, Distribution and Health Risk Assessment of Microplastics in Natural Mussels from the Shoreline of the Sea of Marmara, Türkiye
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Researchers collected 322 mussels from across the Sea of Marmara coastline in Turkey and found microplastic contamination in all samples, with fibers being the most common shape and polyethylene the dominant polymer. Locations near river mouths and areas under heavy human influence showed the highest contamination levels. Risk assessment calculations indicated that children face the greatest exposure through seafood consumption, with an estimated annual intake of 1,940 microplastic particles based on 100 grams of daily consumption.
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A Microplastic Pollution Index was developed and applied as a pilot study in the Marmara Sea, providing a fast, semi-quantitative tool for assessing both land- and marine-based pressures on coastal microplastic pollution levels.
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