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Microplastics pollution in the sediments of creeks and estuaries of Kenya, western Indian Ocean
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Microplastic contamination was documented in sediments of creeks and estuaries along the Kenyan coast in the western Indian Ocean, with higher concentrations near urban centers and tourist areas, filling a major gap in microplastic monitoring data for East African coastal ecosystems and confirming regional contamination levels comparable to more studied ocean regions.
Microplastic pollution has been recognised as a global threat in marine environments and a danger to prey, predators and humans. Yet, there have been few studies in the western Indian Ocean, specifically along the Kenyan coast, which makes it difficult to estimate the extent of such pollution in the region. This is the first study on microplastics (MPs) in the sediments within creeks and estuaries (Tudor, Port Reitz and Mida creeks) on the Kenyan coast. In January/February and September 2018 sediment samples were collected for MPs analysis. The concentration of MPs differed between the sampling seasons and was distinctively higher in the second sampling season across particle sizes, suggesting that there were more MPs from larger terrestrial discharges due to increased runoff. The concentrations of total MPs, and the occurrence of different sizes, shapes and colours, were established under a microscope. The overall mean concentration was highest for the large size category of MPs (500–4 999 µm) at 9.1 (SE 0.8) particles cm−2, with Tudor Creek being more polluted with MPs than Port Reitz and Mida creeks. We recommend formulation of policies on proper plastic waste management and disposal to protect nearshore ecosystems which are rich in marine biodiversity.
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Microplastic Polymers in Surface Waters and Sediments in the Creeks Along the Kenya Coast, Western Indian Ocean (WIO)
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Microplastic polymers were characterized in surface water and creek sediments along the Kenyan coast in the Western Indian Ocean, finding widespread contamination with polyethylene and polypropylene as dominant polymer types in an understudied African coastal environment.
Microplastic pollution in the surface waters of creeks along the Kenyan coast, Western Indian Ocean (WIO)
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Microplastic pollution was documented in surface waters of creeks along the Kenyan coast in the Western Indian Ocean, establishing baseline data for a region where microplastic research has been limited and identifying wastewater discharge and fishing activities as likely sources.
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Microplastics were found in both beach sediments and coastal seawater along 42 kilometers of Sri Lanka's western coastline, with polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene being the most common types. The results document significant plastic contamination along the coast of a densely populated South Asian nation, raising concerns about exposure for coastal communities and marine life in the Indian Ocean region.
Microplastics in Kenya's marine nearshore surface waters: Current status
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Researchers collected microplastics from six locations along Kenya's marine nearshore surface waters, finding a mean concentration of 0.58 MPs per cubic meter with fragments (55%) and polypropylene (52%) as the dominant type and polymer. Malindi was identified as a hotspot for microplastic pollution, providing baseline data to support policy development in the region.
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When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.