We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
An Assessment of Microplastic Pollution in Several Streams of Gyeonggi-do
Summary
This study assessed microplastic pollution in several streams in Gyeonggi-do, South Korea, finding microplastic concentrations in freshwater environments and contributing data to a literature dominated by marine studies.
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in the environmental effects of microplastics, leading to active research efforts worldwide. However, most of these studies have focused on microplastic pollution in marine environments, resulting in a lack of information on the levels of microplastics in freshwater environments. To address this gap, this study investigated types and concentrations of microplastics in four rivers and two effluents from wastewater treatment plants in Gyeonggi-do, Korea, to determine the extent of microplastic contamination in relation to the surrounding environment and seasons. Microplastic concentrations were higher in the Gyeongan Stream (1.8~9.9 ea/L), Bokha Stream (0.47~2.6 ea/L), Osan Stream (0.5~6.6 ea/L), and Tan Stream (0.2~11.4 ea/L) than in the Tan Stream or Nakdong River, which were investigated in the past. However, due to spatial limitations, it is unclear whether the wastewater effluent had any downstream effects. The most commonly detected microplastic types were polypropylene, polyethylene, and polyester, comprising 58–90% of total microplastics, likely due to the influence of the surrounding environment (industries and human habitation). Moreover, types and concentrations of microplastics were found to reflect seasonal characteristics, particularly rainfall, suggesting that continuous monitoring is necessary to accurately assess the situation. The findings of this study can aid in the development of management strategies for reducing microplastic pollution in freshwater sources in the future.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Microplastic Pollution Status of Major Highland Agricultural Watersheds in Gangwon
Researchers assessed microplastic pollution in major highland agricultural watersheds in Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province, South Korea, an area previously lacking microplastic data despite extensive national monitoring elsewhere. Sampling in Hongcheon and Jeongseon alongside highland agricultural sites characterized microplastic abundance, morphology, and polymer types in freshwater systems influenced by agricultural land use.
Comprehensive Analysis of Microplastic Dynamics in Gyeongan Stream
Researchers monitored microplastic concentrations at four locations along Gyeongan Stream in South Korea over two months, finding that polypropylene and polyethylene dominated in the stream while polyester and PTFE were more prevalent in wastewater treatment plant effluents, with smaller particles becoming more abundant downstream and higher concentrations accumulating at slow-flowing curve sites.
Occurrence of microplastics in the Han River and riverine fish in South Korea
Researchers surveyed microplastic pollution in the Han River and its tributaries in South Korea, as well as in six species of freshwater fish. They found microplastics at all sampling sites, with polyethylene, silicone, and polystyrene being the most common polymer types. Fish intestines contained an average of 22 microplastic particles per individual, predominantly fragments, indicating widespread contamination of the freshwater food web.
Occurrence and sources of micro-plastics in various water bodies, sediments, and fishes in Ansan, South Korea.
This study measured microplastic contamination in four rivers, waterways, sediments, and fish in Ansan, South Korea, finding strong correlations between plastic levels in the water and in carp and river crabs. The results confirm that microplastics transfer from aquatic environments into freshwater organisms, raising concerns about food safety for people consuming locally caught fish and shellfish.
Occurrence and characteristics of microplastics in fish of the Han River, South Korea: Factors affecting microplastic abundance in fish
Microplastics were detected in 106 fish from 22 species at three sites in South Korea's Han River, with an average of 16-20 particles per individual and downstream sites showing the highest contamination, reflecting greater human activity and urban inputs near the river mouth.