We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Testing the factors controlling the numbers of microplastics on beaches along the western Gulf of Thailand
Summary
Researchers measured microplastic concentrations on beaches along the western Gulf of Thailand and applied statistical models to link abundance patterns to ocean surface currents and land-based pollution sources, finding that current direction and proximity to riverine inputs were the strongest predictors of beach MP levels.
Microplastic pollution is one of the most significant global environmental concerns. This study represents a first attempt to establish connections between the concentration of microplastics and both ocean surface circulation direction and land-based sources along the western Gulf of Thailand. Microplastics at the high-tide line from 25 beaches in 5 provinces were quantified. Observed amounts range from 20 to 273 (max. 5741) pieces/kg. Sheets were the most common shape and black the most common color of microplastics. Our study showed a significant, positive correlation between the number of microplastics and land-based sources (e.g., aquatic industries). While human activities were the dominant factor affecting microplastic concentrations, the newly designed surface circulation direction (SCD) index reflected relative changes in microplastic amounts. Our study identified several locations with substantial microplastic pollution which require a proper management system with appropriate laws and regulations, and a public awareness campaign about effects of microplastics on ecosystems.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
Microplastics on beaches along the eastern Gulf of Thailand – A preliminary study
Researchers quantified microplastics at the high-tide line of 21 beaches along the eastern Gulf of Thailand, finding highly variable contamination levels ranging from 420 to over 200,000 particles per kilogram of sand.
Abundance And Characteristics of Microplastics Contaminating The Surface Water of The Inner Gulf of Thailand
Researchers collected surface water samples from 25 locations in the Inner Gulf of Thailand and found widespread microplastic contamination with varying concentrations and particle types. The study adds to regional evidence that the Gulf of Thailand is significantly impacted by microplastic pollution from both marine and land-based sources.
Influence of seasonal variations on the distribution characteristics of microplastics in the surface water of the Inner Gulf of Thailand
Researchers sampled surface water across 70-74 sites in the Inner Gulf of Thailand in both dry and wet seasons, finding microplastic concentrations 4 times higher in the wet season (34.59 pieces/L) than the dry season (8.70 pieces/L). River discharge was identified as the key driver of microplastic input to the coastal sea, and polypropylene and polyethylene were the dominant polymers.
Type and Distribution of Microplastic Contamination in Beach Sediment Along the Coast of the Lower Gulf of Thailand
Microplastic contamination was surveyed at five beaches along Thailand's lower Gulf Coast, with Talo Kapo showing the highest abundance and fragment-type particles being most common. The findings document baseline plastic pollution levels and polymer types across different coastal settings.
Contamination and characterization of microplastics in different sediments of the river estuaries (the inner Gulf of Thailand)
Researchers measured microplastic contamination in river estuary sediments in the inner Gulf of Thailand, finding widespread contamination at all sites. The study characterizes the types and abundance of microplastics in a highly trafficked coastal region of Southeast Asia.