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Microplastic occurrence, distribution, and zonation at Paraná’s beaches—South of Brazil
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Researchers conducted the first survey of microplastic distribution and zonation on beaches in Paraná state, southern Brazil, characterizing MP concentrations, polymer types, and morphologies across multiple beach zones to establish a baseline for this understudied South American coastline.
Microplastics are emerging pollutants that are increasingly reported on beaches and potentially impacting the environment and ecosystems. This study presents the first assessment of microplastic (MP) abundance and distribution on oceanic beaches of Paraná, South Brazil. Surface sediments samples retrieved from different beach zones across four beaches were analyzed for their MP (in the 1 to 5 mm size fraction-large microplastics) abundance, morphotype, and polymer composition. MP were found on all the studied beaches, totaling 846 particles, with mean concentrations of 51.9 MP/m or 2.3 MP/kg dw. The most common morphotypes were fragments (40%), styrofoam (28%), and foams (10%), mainly composed of polyethylene (35%) and polypropylene (29%). MP concentration distribution significantly differed between beach zones, and morphotype distribution showed differences between beaches. MP distribution followed a cross-shore pattern, with the backshore as a main accumulation area. Our study suggests that natural environmental factors such as grain size and beach slope primarily control MP distribution and accumulation along sandy shores. At the same time, the proximity of potential MP sources influences morphotype variation among beaches.
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Beach surveys along São Francisco do Sul in southern Brazil confirmed widespread microplastic presence in coastal sediments, with polymer composition reflecting regional plastic waste streams. The study adds to the body of evidence that Brazilian coastlines are significantly contaminated and calls for national monitoring standards to track and manage the problem.
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Researchers analyzed microplastics in beach sediments at three sites on the northern coast of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil, across all four seasons. Microplastic abundance was higher at more urbanized beaches and varied seasonally, reflecting differences in anthropogenic pressure and local conditions.
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Researchers examined the distribution and occurrence of microplastics in estuaries of São José Bay on the Brazilian equatorial margin, characterizing MP abundance, morphology, and polymer composition across multiple sampling sites.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.