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Microplastic Accumulation Along an Urbanized and Elevational Gradient in Thetennessee River Watershed
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Researchers examined how microplastic concentrations vary along an urbanization gradient and across elevations in the Tennessee River watershed, tracing how land use and topography shape plastic transport through river systems. The findings demonstrate that even remote or elevated areas are not insulated from microplastic deposition, challenging the assumption that distance from urban centers provides protection.
Understanding the transportation of microplastics through waterways is an area ...
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Microplastics in the Tennessee River and Three Tributary Urban Creeks
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Researchers sampled microplastic concentrations in the Tennessee River and three urbanized tributary creeks, finding high and highly variable abundances ranging from fewer than 5 to over 75 particles per liter. Linear fibers dominated all samples, and microplastic levels were most strongly linked to local factors such as proximity to runoff discharge pipes and low-flow accumulation zones.
Microplastics in a Small Stream: Storm Response in a Tributary to the Tennessee River
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Researchers used hydrograph separation techniques to investigate whether residential septic systems are a significant source of microplastics to a headwater stream on the Cumberland Plateau. By comparing microplastic concentrations at different points in the storm hydrograph against chemical indicators of septic effluent, they assessed the relative contributions of groundwater, interflow, and surface runoff in transporting plastic particles.
Microplastics in the Tennessee River: Are Small Streams a Major Source?
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A three-month study of headwater streams in Eastern Tennessee found that residential septic systems and recreational swimming areas contribute substantial microplastic loads to tributaries feeding the Tennessee River. These overlooked rural and recreational sources suggest that microplastic contamination of freshwater systems is more widespread than wastewater treatment plant emissions alone would indicate.
Watershed Characteristics Affect Microplastic Concentrations in a Central Illinois Urban Stream
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Researchers found that small urban streams can contain far higher microplastic concentrations than large rivers, with a central Illinois stream averaging 122 microplastics per cubic meter — suggesting that urban runoff and storm drainage are major, often underestimated sources of microplastic pollution in freshwater systems.
Microplastic Concentration and Type in a Central Illinois Urban Stream
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Researchers measured microplastic concentrations in a small urban stream in central Illinois and found levels orders of magnitude higher than those in major rivers like the Chicago or Danube, with downstream concentrations reaching 2,000 particles per cubic meter. The findings suggest small urban waterways may be underestimated but significant pathways for funneling microplastics into larger water systems.
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.