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From beaches to mangroves: Spatiotemporal mapping and risk profiling of microplastics in coastal Bangladesh
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A comprehensive survey of microplastic contamination along the entire coastline of Bangladesh found plastic particles at all 18 sampling sites during both monsoon and winter seasons, with polypropylene, polyethylene, and polystyrene making up the majority of the material. Concentrations averaged 385–471 particles per 100 grams of sediment, and ecological risk assessments classified most sites as ranging from "danger" to "extreme danger" for marine life. Bangladesh's densely populated and heavily plastic-polluted coast represents a serious environmental hotspot requiring urgent monitoring and management.
This study examines seasonal and spatial variations in microplastic (MP) contamination, polymer types, and associated ecological risks along the entire coastline of Bangladesh, from the Sundarbans region in the west to Teknaf in the east. Sampling was conducted across eighteen sandy and muddy beaches during the monsoon and winter seasons. MP concentrations are 385 items/100 g dry weight (dw) sediments in winter and 471 items/100 g dw in the monsoon season. MPs were quantified using a stereo microscope, and an FT-IR was used to examine polymer composition. Polypropylene (PP, 30.6%), polyethylene (PE, 29%), and polystyrene (PS, 22.4%) were the predominant polymers encompassing both seasons and locations. The mean pollution load index (PLI) values for winter and monsoon were 2.36 and 2.24, respectively, with polymer hazard index (PHI) values spanning from hazards categories III to V across all sites. The potential ecological risk index (PERI) ranged from Danger to Extreme Danger, underscoring high risk levels for marine flora and fauna in their respective habitats. While MP concentration and load were influenced by season, the hazardous polymer composition remained consistent throughout seasons, posing a high threat and ecotoxicological risks. This study provides important baseline information on MP pollution dynamics across the entire coastal area of Bangladesh, highlighting the need for ongoing monitoring and targeted interventions to mitigate long-term ecological risks in this region.
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Quantification, characterization and risk assessment of microplastics from five major estuaries along the northern Bay of Bengal coast
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Researchers measured microplastic pollution in five major estuaries along the Bay of Bengal coast in Bangladesh and found contamination at every site, with polyethylene being the most common plastic type. The rivers were classified at the most severe hazard level for microplastic contamination based on the types of polymers found. Since these estuaries supply water and fish to millions of people, the contamination raises concerns about human exposure through drinking water and seafood.
Distribution, characteristics, and risk assessments analysis of microplastics in shore sediments and surface water of Moheshkhali channel of Bay of Bengal, Bangladesh
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Researchers investigated microplastic pollution in the Moheshkhali channel of the Bay of Bengal and found significant contamination in both sediments and surface water, with pollution load indices indicating serious environmental concern.
Microplastics in beach sediments of the Northern Bay of Bengal, Bangladesh: Insights into occurrence, distribution, pollution indices, and ANN-based risk modeling
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Researchers investigated the occurrence, abundance, distribution, and risk of microplastics in beach sediments at two Bangladeshi coastal sites — Cox's Bazar and Kuakata — finding widespread contamination and raising concern about microplastic pollution in the Northern Bay of Bengal.
An Integrated Spatial Assessment of Macro-, Meso-, and Microplastic Pollution Along Cox’s Bazar Beach in Bangladesh
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Researchers conducted the first comprehensive assessment of macro-, meso-, and microplastic pollution along the full coastline of Cox's Bazar in Bangladesh, sampling 23 stations across tourism, active, and less active beach zones. Plastic abundance varied significantly by zone and land use, with fragments and films as dominant types, reflecting Bangladesh's high plastic waste mismanagement rates.
Assessment of microplastics in coastal ecosystem of Bangladesh
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Researchers surveyed microplastic contamination in water, beach sand, and fish along two major coastal areas of Bangladesh. Microplastics were found in every sample type, with fibers being the most common shape and polyethylene and polypropylene the dominant plastic types. Fish accumulated microplastics in their digestive tracts and body tissues, raising concerns about human exposure through seafood consumption in the region.
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