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Improper disposal of solid waste in mangroves: a systematic review
Original title: Descarte irregular de resíduos sólidos em manguezais: Uma revisão sistemática
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This review of 35 studies found that mangroves, coastal wetlands that protect shorelines and support fish populations, are becoming trapped with plastic waste and fishing gear, which gets stuck in their root systems and breaks down into microplastics found in soil, water, and marine life. While scientists haven't yet directly proven how this pollution harms human health, mangroves support seafood supplies and coastal communities that people depend on, so damage to these ecosystems could eventually affect us too. The researchers stress that beach cleanups alone won't fix the problem, it requires stopping plastic waste at the source and better waste management systems.
Improper solid waste disposal threatens mangrove integrity and the ecosystem services on which coastal populations depend. This study analyzed waste types and sources, documented ecological and socio-environmental impacts, and mitigation measures proposed in the literature. A systematic review with narrative synthesis was conducted and reported in accordance with PRISMA 2020. Scopus and Web of Science were searched for studies published from 2015 to 2025 in English, Portuguese, or Spanish. Of 547 records identified, 35 studies were included in the synthesis. Everyday plastic items and fishing-related materials predominated. Mangrove root architecture promotes the retention and long-term persistence of debris, while microplastics occur in sediments, water, and organisms. Reported effects include soil coverage, reduced vegetation performance under high debris loads, ingestion by fauna, and shifts in microbial communities. Direct evidence of human health effects and socioeconomic losses remains limited. Effective mitigation requires control of land- and sea-based sources, adequate collection infrastructure, shared responsibility, standardized monitoring, and community participation. Local cleanups are necessary but insufficient unless combined with prevention and integrated governance.
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