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Environmental concentrations, characteristics and risk assessment of microplastics in the Olifants and Breede Catchments, Estuaries and Coastal Areas, Western Cape, South Africa
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This research protocol outlines a systematic study of microplastic concentrations, characteristics, and ecological risks across the Olifants and Breede river systems in South Africa's Western Cape, using FTIR-ATR polymer identification and disturbance indices. Generating this data is critical for developing effective mitigation strategies in river-to-coastal ecosystems that support both biodiversity and human livelihoods.
The proposed research aims to determine the concentrations, characteristics and risk assessment of microplastics in the Olifants and Breede systems' catchments, estuaries and coastal areas in South Africa. Within each system, 18 sites will be sampled during the wet and dry seasons, and five replicate samples of water and sediment will be collected. Once collected, the samples will then undergo laboratory analysis by filtering the samples for microplastics. The microplastics that have been filtered will then be categorised according to type, colour and size using a stereo microscope and will also be identified according to polymer type using an FTIR-ATR spectrometer. Environmental parameters will also be measured using a water multi-meter, grain size analysis of sediment samples will be conducted and the level of disturbance as well as the risks of the microplastics will be assessed using a disturbance index and risk assessment, respectively. Conducting the proposed research will provide a better understanding of the concentrations, risks, transport and fate of the microplastics within the Olifants and Breede systems. This information will be crucial in identifying the sources and sinks of microplastics within these systems, which will aid in developing and implementing appropriate mitigation strategies to protect both the marine life and human livelihoods that depend on these systems.
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