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Recognizing microplastic deposits on sandy beaches by altimetric positioning, μ-Raman spectroscopy and multivariate statistical models
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Researchers combined satellite positioning, Raman spectroscopy, and statistical modeling to map and characterize microplastic deposits on sandy beaches along the Sao Paulo coast in Brazil. They found that microplastic distribution was linked to beach elevation, tidal patterns, and proximity to industrial and port activities. The study introduces a replicable methodology for systematically monitoring plastic pollution on coastlines.
Understanding the extent and implications of microplastic (MP) pollution along the São Paulo State coastline in southeastern Brazil is crucial, considering the significant environmental burden imposed by industrial and port activities in this region. This research aims to understand the complex dynamics of MP deposition on sandy beaches, which poses severe environmental risks to coastal ecosystems, marine organisms, and humans. Using a comprehensive five-step methodology-geodetic surveys, sediment collection, μ-RAMAN spectrometry for polymer identification, and multivariate statistical models-we analyzed the distribution of MPs across six coastal compartments (C1 to C6). The results (128 samples from 34 profiles) revealed relatively high MP concentrations in C3 and C2, which were likely influenced by local human activities. Various shape types of MPs, such as pellets, fragments, and fibers, present distinct distribution patterns based on their physical properties and emission sources. Fragments and foam were the most prevalent, accounting for 42 % and 35 %, respectively, of the 1026 MP items identified in total. Statistical analyses revealed significant correlations between MP types and beach morphometric features, with higher elevations correlating with increased MP concentrations, particularly for pellets and foam. Beaches with intermediate slopes (0.05 < tanβ <0.12) and openings to the southern quadrant tended to accumulate more MPs. This research underscores the importance of tailored management strategies that consider the unique characteristics of each coastal region to mitigate the impacts of MP pollution. The findings contribute to the development of targeted monitoring and environmental remediation strategies, which are crucial for protecting marine life and maintaining the integrity of coastal environments.
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Microplastic deposits prediction on Urban Sandy Beaches: Integrating Remote Sensing, GNSS Positioning, µ-Raman Spectroscopy, and Machine Learning Models
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Researchers integrated remote sensing, GNSS altimetric surveys, micro-Raman spectroscopy, and machine learning models to predict microplastic deposition patterns on urban sandy beaches along the central Sao Paulo coastline, finding MP concentrations ranging from 6 to 35 MPs/m2.
Microplastic Deposits Prediction on Urban Sandy Beaches: Integrating Remote Sensing, GNSS Positioning, µ-Raman Spectroscopy, and Machine Learning Models
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Researchers used remote sensing, GNSS positioning, Raman spectroscopy, and machine learning to predict microplastic deposition on urban beaches along the Sao Paulo coastline in Brazil. Microplastic concentrations ranged from 6 to 35 particles per square meter, with the highest densities near the Port of Santos linked to industrial activities. The predominant types were foams, fragments, and pellets, and machine learning models showed high predictive accuracy for mapping their distribution.
Microplastic Deposit Predictions on Sandy Beaches by Geotechnologies and Machine Learning Models
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Researchers used satellite imagery and machine learning to predict where microplastics accumulate on sandy beaches along Brazil's northern coast. They found that beach shape, slope, and proximity to urban areas were strong predictors of microplastic deposits. The study demonstrates that geotechnology tools can help identify pollution hotspots without costly field sampling at every location.
Microplastics on Santos Beach: Sources of Pollution, Waste Characteristics and Possible Collection Solutions
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This Brazilian study mapped and characterized microplastic contamination on Santos beach near submarine sewage outfalls and storm drains, finding plastic pollution hotspots linked to coastal discharge infrastructure. The authors estimated that ~60 tons of solid waste enter the sea daily in the region and identified possible collection solutions.
Meso- and microplastic composition, distribution patterns and drivers: A snapshot of plastic pollution on Brazilian beaches
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A standardized survey of plastic pollution across 22 sandy beaches spanning over 4600 km of Brazilian coast found widespread contamination in coastal sediments, with polymer type, size, and distribution patterns reflecting diverse sources including fishing activity and urban runoff.
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