We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Spatial Variability and Combined Risk of Metal elements and Microplastics along the River Severn (UK)
AI summary Read the abstract
Scientists found that the River Severn in the UK contains both toxic metals (like lead and zinc) and microplastics throughout its length, with the highest pollution levels near cities and old mining areas. These pollutants tend to cluster together in "hotspots," meaning people living downstream could be exposed to multiple types of contamination at once through their drinking water. This research helps identify the most polluted areas so water managers can focus cleanup efforts where they're needed most to protect public health.
In order to better understand the processes of transport and accumulation of microplastics with other co-pollutants, we developed a large-scale study along the UK's longest river, the River Severn (354 km). Our objective is to quantify the concentrations and loads of MPs and metal elements in sediments and surface water, and also to discuss their origin by considering tributary inputs and land-use changes. River Severn successively flows through a diversified landscape with forested uplands and pasturelands, where former mining areas (lead, silver and zinc) are found (Shropshire and Plymlimon). It also presents small towns which originally developed thanks to wool production and heavy industries. Downstream, the river receives inputs from tributaries draining urban and industrial areas (Birmingham Black Country and Coventry), as well as wastewater treatment plant inputs (around Worcester).Streambed sediments and surface water from 16 sites located along the river were collected during low water conditions to take into account this spatial feature. MP concentrations and polymer types were quantified by using µFT-IR. Metal concentrations (Cd, Cu, Cr, Fe, Ni, Pb, Zn) as well as hydrological and sediment properties (grain size, organic matter – OM, carbonates) were also acquired during the sampling campaign. Pollution Load (PLI) and Polymer Risk (PRI) indices, as well as daily MP fluxes were assessed.Results highlight multi- contaminated hotspots in the upstream section (PLI>2), mostly because of lead (Pb), zinc (Zn) and cadmium (Cd) due to diffuse pollution from historic mining areas, while MP hotspots were distinct and limited. A gradual growth of metals and MP concentrations and loads as well as an increase of polymer diversity occurred in the downstream direction, in both surface water and sediments. A major multi-pollution hotspot was found south of Worcester (PLI>5), which seems polluted by both diffuse pollution from tributaries (such as the Avon River coming from Coventry) and by local sewage inputs.The composition of pollution hotspots greatly contrasts along the river, as underlined by various metal and MP concentration and types, most likely coming from point-sources, as well as brought by some tributaries draining urban-industrial areas in the downstream direction. This knowledge gain will help to shape future river water quality management.
More Papers Like This
Assessment of combined microplastic and metallic contamination in surface sediment and water along a historically industrialised gravel-bed river (Severn River, UK)
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers assessed the combined contamination of microplastics and heavy metals in surface sediment and water along the historically industrialised Severn River in the UK. The study examined how industrial legacy influences the co-occurrence and distribution of these pollutants in a gravel-bed river system.
Occurrence, environmental behavior, and co-pollution of microplastics with HMs in urban channelized rivers
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers investigated the occurrence, environmental behavior, and co-pollution dynamics of microplastics and heavy metals in urban channelized rivers, examining how frequent anthropogenic activities introduce these contaminants into aquatic ecosystems. The study characterized spatial distribution patterns and interactions between microplastics and heavy metals, contributing to understanding combined pollution risks in urban waterways.
Assessment of Microplastics and Potentially Toxic Elements in Surface Sediments of the River Kelvin, Central Scotland, United Kingdom
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers surveyed microplastic contamination in sediments along Scotland's River Kelvin and found that abundance increased significantly from upstream to downstream locations, with fibres being the most common particle type. They also detected elevated levels of potentially toxic metals like chromium, copper, and zinc at several sites. The study suggests that urban and industrial activity along the river contributes to co-contamination by both microplastics and heavy metals in freshwater sediments.
Environmental behavior of microplastic - heavy metal synergistic contamination in a typical urban-rural river network
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers investigated the seasonal co-occurrence of microplastics and heavy metals in urban and rural rivers in a Chinese inland city. They found that both pollutant types were present in all water samples and that microplastics can adsorb heavy metals, potentially increasing the combined environmental risk. The study reveals that river networks connecting urban and rural areas serve as pathways for spreading this dual contamination.
Lead levels and abundance of microplastics in surface water and sediment along a rural–urban river gradient
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers sampled water and sediment along a rural-to-urban river and found microplastics at every location, with concentrations decreasing downstream in surface water but not following a clear pattern in sediment. They also found that higher microplastic levels in sediment were linked to higher lead concentrations, suggesting the two pollutants tend to accumulate together.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.