Macroplastic and Microparticle Pollution in Beach Sediments from Urias Coastal Lagoon (Northwest Mexico)

Author:

Alvarado-Zambrano Daniela1ORCID,Rivera-Hernández José R.2ORCID,Green-Ruiz Carlos2ORCID

Affiliation:

1. Engineering in Environmental Technology, Polytechnic University of Sinaloa, Km 3. Carretera Municipal Libre Mazatlan Higueras, Mazatlan 82199, Sinaloa, Mexico

2. Mazatlan Academic Unit, Marine Sciences and Limnology Institute, Universidad Nacional Autónoma de México, Cap. Joel Montes Camarena, Mazatlan 82047, Sinaloa, Mexico

Abstract

This study investigates the occurrence and characteristics of macroplastic and polymer microparticles in the Urias coastal lagoon’s beach sediments, in northwest Mexico. Coastal lagoons, productive and vulnerable ecosystems, are impacted significantly by anthropogenic activities, leadings to their pollution by various contaminants, including plastics. Our research involved sampling sediments from four sites within the lagoon that were influenced by different human activities such as fishing, aquaculture, thermoelectric power plant operations, industrial operations, and domestic wastewater discharge. Our methodology included collecting macroplastics and beach sediment samples, followed by laboratory analyses to identify the plastic debris’ size, shape, color, and chemical composition. The results indicated a notable presence of macroplastic items (144), predominantly bags, styrofoam, and caps made of polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The polymer microparticles were mainly fibers, with cotton and polyester as the most common polymers, suggesting a significant contribution from clothing-related waste. The dominant colors of the microparticles were blue and transparent. High densities were observed in areas with slower water exchange. Our findings highlight the urgent need for better waste management practices to mitigate plastic pollution in coastal lagoons, preserving their ecological and economic functions.

Funder

Institute of Marine Sciences and Limnology (ICMyL) of the National Autonomous University of Mexico

Publisher

MDPI AG

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