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Exploring plastic detectability on riverbanks using remote sensing.

Milou I Maathuis¹, Marc Rußwurm², Mathias Bochow³

¹Laboratory of Geo-information Science and Remote Sensing, Wageningen University, Droevendaalsesteeg 3, Wageningen, 6708 PB, the Netherlands; Hydrology and Environmental Hydraulics Group, Wageningen University, Droevendaalsesteeg 3, Wageningen, 6708 PB, the Netherlands.

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|April 22, 2026

Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

This study explored using satellite imagery to detect plastic pollution on riverbanks. While large polyester sheets were detectable, transparent plastic bottles were not, highlighting limitations in current remote sensing for plastic monitoring.

Keywords:

Field experiment Macroplastic Marine debris Remote sensing Rivers Sentinel-2

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Area of Science:

Environmental Science
Remote Sensing
Ecotoxicology

Background:

Plastic pollution poses a significant threat to global ecosystems, with rivers acting as key transport pathways.
Effective monitoring of plastic debris in riverine environments is crucial for mitigation strategies.

Purpose of the Study:

To assess the detectability of artificial plastic targets on riverbanks using various remote sensing techniques.
To evaluate the influence of target size, material, and concentration on detection accuracy.
To explore the potential of satellite and camera imagery for large-scale plastic pollution monitoring.

Main Methods:

Experimentation with artificial targets (polyester sheets, PET bottles) of varying sizes and concentrations on riverbanks.
Data acquisition using in-situ spectroradiometers, multispectral cameras, and satellite sensors (Sentinel-2, PlanetScope, EnMAP).
Analysis of spectral reflectance, development of a new spectral index (SI-13), and application of a Naïve Bayes detection model.

Main Results:

Sentinel-2 successfully detected larger polyester targets, demonstrating feasibility for certain plastic types.
Transparent PET bottle targets were not detected, indicating limitations with material and concentration.
A strong negative correlation was found between polyester target size and spectral indices, aiding detection.

Conclusions:

Satellite remote sensing for riverbank plastic detection is constrained by sensor spatial resolution and plastic concentration.
Further research is needed to improve detection capabilities for diverse plastic types and conditions.
This study provides a proof of concept for using remote sensing in riverine plastic pollution monitoring.