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Microplastic occurrence and fate in the South African environment: a review
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This review summarizes microplastic contamination across South Africa's freshwater, marine, and air environments. Researchers found microplastics in drinking water samples from major cities, with marine sediment levels along the southeast coast reaching particularly high concentrations. The findings emphasize the need for better wastewater treatment, stronger laws on single-use plastics, and more research on how this contamination affects human health.
This review examines the occurrence and fate of microplastics (MPs) in freshwater, marine, and terrestrial environments in South Africa. MPs were found in Tshwane and Johannesburg in drinking water samples, with concentrations as high as 0.189 particles/L. Concentrations in freshwater bodies were greater, sometimes reaching 0.33–56 particles/L. MP levels in marine sediments were greater than many worldwide averages, particularly along the southeast coast (up to 45,867 particles/kg) and the MP levels in air were 1–5 particles/m3. These values are in line with figures around the globe which stand at 0.1–10 particles/L, and 0.3–10 particles/m3 for water, and air respectively. Low-density PE, PP, and PE-HD were the most prevalent polymers identified. Although there is little data, inappropriate disposal of waste is a major cause of soil contamination, which is a serious concern. The study highlights how important it is to conduct more research to close knowledge gaps, especially regarding MPs in groundwater and their impact on human health. The findings emphasise the necessity of improved wastewater treatment technologies, public awareness initiatives, and stronger laws governing single-use plastics. Standardizing MPs detection techniques, improving our knowledge of MPs fate and transport, and estimating the effects of MPs exposure to human health should be the main goals for future research. Effective cooperation between researchers, legislators, and industry is necessary for mitigation initiatives to be successful.
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Marine and freshwater microplastic research in South Africa
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This review summarizes microplastic research in South Africa, noting that both marine and freshwater studies are still limited but growing. The review highlights key knowledge gaps, particularly in freshwater environments, that need to be addressed to understand the extent of South Africa's microplastic contamination.
Microplastics in South African Aquatic Environments: A Systematic Review of Spatial Distribution, Analytical Methods, and Research Trends (2012–2025)
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This review pulls together 28 studies to show that microplastics, tiny plastic bits from broken-down waste, are widely present in South Africa's rivers, coastlines, and even wastewater, but research has mostly focused on a few coastal cities while inland areas remain a blind spot. Since these plastics have been found in water and food sources people rely on, and South Africa currently has no official rules for tracking or limiting them, this matters for making sure contamination doesn't go unnoticed or unmanaged. The takeaway: we know microplastics are out there, but inconsistent testing methods and gaps in monitoring mean the full picture
The Occurrence and Fate of Microplastics in Wastewater Treatment Plants in South Africa and the Degradation of Microplastics in Aquatic Environments—A Critical Review
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A review of microplastic research in South Africa reveals a critical data gap: despite the country generating around 120 million tons of waste annually, there is almost no published information on microplastic concentrations in its wastewater treatment plants or freshwater systems. The authors argue that urgent monitoring is needed to support effective policy, given that South Africa's infrastructure is under increasing pressure from urbanization and industrialization.
A baseline study on the prevalence of microplastics in South African drinking water: from source to distribution
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A baseline survey of South Africa's largest bulk drinking water system found microplastics present throughout — in source water, immediately after treatment, and in the distribution network supplying major urban areas — at concentrations of 0.24 to 1.47 particles per liter. Critically, the treatment process showed little evidence of actually reducing microplastic concentrations, meaning treated tap water delivered to millions of people still contains detectable microplastic particles.
Occurrence and characteristics of microplastics in South African beverages
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Researchers measured microplastic occurrence and characterized particles found in multiple South African beverages including bottled water, soft drinks, and juice, finding plastic contamination across all categories. The study assessed associated human dietary exposure from beverage consumption.
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