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Microplastic accumulation in sewer sediments and its potential entering the environment via combined sewer overflows: a study case in Paris
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During heavy rainfall events in Paris, sewer sediments containing densely accumulated microplastics — up to 178,000 particles per kilogram of dry sediment — are resuspended and discharged directly into rivers via combined sewer overflows. This previously overlooked pathway means that stormwater overflow events can rapidly transfer large quantities of microplastics stored in urban sewer networks into freshwater ecosystems.
Abstract During wet weather events, combined sewer overflows (CSOs) transfer large amount of particulate matter and associated pollutants into surrounding water bodies, thereby deteriorating the recipients’ ecological health. Resuspension of sewer sediments during these events contribute significantly to pollution level of these discharges. However, how much this in-sewer process contributes to CSOs’ quality regarding microplastic (MP) pollution is little known. Therefore, an investigation on sewer deposits inside the Parisian combined sewer network was carried out. The study found high MP concentrations stored in this matrix, ranging from 5×10 3 to 178×10 3 particle/kg dry weight. Polymer composition is similar to what found in raw wastewater, containing a high proportion of polyethylene and polypropylene. Thus, the results indicated the retainment of MPs in sewer network during transport during dry weather periods to treatment facilities. Once resuspension of sewer deposits happens, MPs can be released into water flow and get discharged along with CSOs. This highlights another potential pathway of MPs into freshwater environment.
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Microplastic accumulation in sewer sediments and its potential entering the environment via combined sewer overflows: a study case in Paris
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Researchers measured microplastic levels in sewer sediments in Paris and found extremely high concentrations, similar in composition to raw wastewater. During heavy rain events, these contaminated sediments get flushed into rivers through sewer overflows, releasing large amounts of microplastics into the environment. The study reveals that urban sewer systems are a significant hidden reservoir of microplastic pollution that can rapidly contaminate waterways used for recreation and drinking water.
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Researchers investigated microplastic accumulation in sewer sediments within the Paris combined sewer network, finding significant quantities of plastics deposited in sediment during low-flow periods that could be resuspended and flushed into wastewater treatment plants or directly into the Seine River during heavy rainfall. Sewer systems are an understudied but important pathway for microplastic transport in urban environments.
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