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Integrated approach for microplastic pollution assessment in the North-East Sardinia (Tyrrhenian Sea).
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Researchers conducted the first comprehensive microplastic contamination assessment across multiple environmental matrices in the northeast coast of Sardinia in the Tyrrhenian Sea, integrating data on MPs distribution, polymer types, and ecological risk in a geologically diverse and ecologically valuable coastal zone. The multi-matrix approach aimed to better characterize the sources and fate of microplastics in this region.
Microplastics (MPs) pollution in coastal areas depends on multiple factors, therefore, integration of data from different environmental matrices, is required to better understand MPs distribution and the ecological risk related to their occurrence in marine ecosystem. To this end, for the first time, an exhaustive assessment of MPs contamination in the Northeast coasts of Sardinia Island (Tyrrhenian Sea), characterized by high geomorphological variability and ecological-economical value was performed. MPs were analysed in surface water, sediment and biota collected from ports, areas close to mussels and fish farms, and marine protected areas (MPA). Obtained data were elaborated and integrated through a quantitative Weight of Evidence model providing an overall risk assessment of MPs pollution in the investigated areas. Results showed a global average abundance of 0.25±0.22 items/m3 surface water, 17.0±21.7 items/kg sediment, 1.47 ± 0.63 MPs/organism. However, higher levels in the abiotic matrices were measured in Olbia Port than Golfo Aranci and Tavolara-Punta Coda Cavallo MPA, respectively north and south from the harbour of Olbia entrance. In contrast, the highest percentage of organisms ingesting MPs was calculated for MPA (45 Also see: https://micro2024.sciencesconf.org/558724/document
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