We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
A systematic review and scientometrics analysis on microplastic pollution on coastal beaches around the globe
Summary
This systematic review analyzes microplastic pollution on coastal beaches worldwide. The research found that beach contamination varies widely by region but is present on virtually every coastline studied. This matters because beaches are not just recreational areas but also habitats where microplastics can enter marine food webs and eventually reach people through seafood consumption.
The coastlines constitute one of the most important marine environments, acting as the interface between land and sea, and a habitat for a great number of marine and terrestrial species. Coastal beaches are valuable to the coastal population, as they are of economic, ecological, cultural, and recreational importance. However, these transitional environments are subjected to several threats, with macro- and microplastic pollution directly affecting the biodiversity and coastal population. This work reviews and discusses the current state of microplastic pollution in coastal beaches around the globe in terms of occurrence, polymer types, and distribution, and describes the sources, mechanisms, and processes that control the distribution of MPs in beaches, as well as the environmental implications of microplastic pollution in these vulnerable environments. • MPs on coastal beaches has tripled during the past two decades. • Single-use plastic products dropped by beachgoers is a major source of MPs. • Coastal microplastic pollution can affect the tourism and seafood industry. • Educational and public awareness activities can mitigate microplastic pollution.