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Microplastic and charred microplastic in the Faafu Atoll, Maldives
Francesco Saliu1, Simone Montano2, Maria Grazia Garavaglia3
1Earth and Environmental Science Department, University of Milano Bicocca, Piazza della Scienza 1, 20126 Milano, Italy.
Marine Pollution Bulletin
|December 5, 2018
Summary
Microplastic contamination is present even in remote Faafu Atoll, Maldives. Charred microparticles, likely from local waste burning, were found near inhabited areas.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Marine Biology
- Ecotoxicology
Background:
- Microplastics pose a significant threat to marine ecosystems, even in remote locations.
- Understanding microplastic distribution is crucial for assessing environmental impact.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess microplastic contamination in the sediments and surface waters of Faafu Atoll, Maldives.
- To identify the types of polymers present and investigate potential sources of pollution.
Main Methods:
- Collected sediment and seawater samples from twelve stations within and outside the reef rim.
- Utilized Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy for polymer identification.
Main Results:
- Detected microplastic abundance of 0.32 ± 0.15 particles/m³ in surface water and 22.8 ± 10.5 particles/m² in beach sediments.
- Identified common polymers including polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, and others.
- Observed charred microparticles, particularly near inhabited areas, suggesting local plastic waste burning.
Conclusions:
- Faafu Atoll, despite its remoteness, is contaminated with microplastics.
- Local practices, such as burning plastic waste, may contribute significantly to microplastic pollution in the area.
- Further research is needed to understand the ecological implications of these findings.
