Migration, Pathways, and Management of Microplastics (MPs) through Remote Sensing and GIS Techniques

Microplastic (MP) pollution has become a prominent environmental issue of concern across the world. Understanding MPs’ migration patterns and pathways is crucial for effective management and mitigation strategies. This chapter aimed to identify the approach of remote sensing and geographic information system (GIS) techniques to investigate the potential sources, distribution, movement, and management of MPs in the environment. Remote sensing provides an invaluable approach to enhance our understanding of the movement of MPs and identify potential areas where MP accumulation may occur. Remote sensing data, including aerial surveys and satellite imagery, have proven to be effective for identifying and mapping marine debris, including MPs, particularly in remote areas. Remote sensing techniques, including optical sensing, synthetic aperture radar, hyperspectral imaging, and thermal infrared sensing, have the capability to track MPs directly or estimate MP concentrations through indirect measurements. For instance, measurements obtained by the CYGNSS low Earth orbiting bistatic radars, originally intended for measuring oceanic wind speed, are utilized to detect MPs in close proximity to the ocean surface. Utilizing remote sensing techniques can help overcome knowledge gaps related to the sources and fate of MPs in the environment. This approach enables comprehensive and timely observations of MPs, facilitating more efficient long-term and global mapping of these particles. GIS has been employed to create models for assessing MP pollution and its associated risks. GISs can be utilized to identify areas with high potential for the accumulation of MPs by leveraging topographic data. Data collection can be a time-consuming and costly process, and GIS provides essential tools for integrating and aligning existing data, making the process more efficient and cost-effective. Nevertheless, the utilization of remote sensing and GIS techniques for MP investigations and management is accompanied by several constraints. This chapter further summarizes case studies, which have used remote sensing and GIS techniques in assessing the migration, pathways, and management of MPs. Limitations and challenges and the way forward of using remote sensing and GIS techniques in investigating and managing MPs are also discussed. Through the utilization of remote sensing and GIS applications, policymakers, researchers, and environmentalists can acquire valuable insights into the dynamics of MP contamination. This, in turn, facilitates informed decision-making and enables the implementation of proactive measures to address this pressing environmental issue.