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Microplastics on Santos Beach: Sources of Pollution, Waste Characteristics and Possible Collection Solutions
Summary
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.
The research focused on plastic pollution on Santos' beaches, particularly microplastics in the areas of the Submarine Outfall, Canal 04, and Ponta da Praia. It is estimated that approximately 60 tons of solid waste, predominantly plastic, are dumped into the sea daily, with increases during holidays. The study mapped and characterized microplastics, collecting particles smaller than 5 mm and classifying them into six categories. Interviews were conducted with experts from the Instituto do Mar (Unifesp) to understand the sources and impacts of microplastics. In addition, an experiment with the Danio rerio fish investigated how the presence of microplastics affects the health and behavior of marine animals. To mitigate pollution, the use of garbage collection boats and awareness-raising initiatives were proposed.