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Spatio-temporal distribution of microplastic pollution in surface sediments along the coastal areas of Istanbul, Turkey
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Researchers sampled microplastic (MP) pollution across 43 stations in Istanbul's Marmara Sea and Bosphorus over four seasons, finding strong seasonal variation — summer concentrations were roughly five times higher than winter levels. River mouths in the Golden Horn and coastal discharge points were the worst hotspots, underscoring how dense urban activity drives MP contamination in semi-enclosed coastal waters.
Microplastics (MPs) have become prevalent in various environmental compartments, including air, water, and soil, attracting attention as significant pollutant parameters. This study investigated the prevalence of MP pollution in surface sediments along Istanbul's Marmara Sea, encompassing the megacity and the Bosphorus. A comprehensive sampling approach was employed, covering 43 stations across four seasons and depths ranging from 5 to 70 m. The objective was to assess the impact of terrestrial, social, and industrial activities on MPs. The average concentrations varied per season, with fall, winter, spring, and summer values recorded as 2000 ± 4100, 1600 ± 3900, 4300 ± 12,000, and 9500 ± 20,300 particles/kg-DW. The study identified river stations in the Golden Horn and sea discharge locations as hotspots for high concentrations. Notably, the dominant shape shifted from fibers in fall, winter, and spring to fragments during summer, coinciding with mucilage occurrences. The study identified 11 different polymers, with polyethylene (44 %) and polypropylene (31 %) being the most common.
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Researchers surveyed sediments in the Marmara Sea near Istanbul and found widespread microplastic contamination, with fibers being the most common type. The study adds to growing evidence of microplastic pollution in Turkish waters and highlights the Marmara Sea as a regional hotspot given its geography and population density.
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Researchers found mean microplastic abundances of 33 particles per litre in surface waters of the Kuçukçekmece Lagoon in the Marmara Sea, higher than in previous regional studies, with blue-coloured fragment particles dominating and the highest concentrations recorded in autumn. The study linked spatial and seasonal distribution patterns to freshwater inputs, urban discharge, and differences in fresh and saltwater densities.
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