Microplastic occurrence and fate in the South African environment: a review DOI Creative Commons
Ntebogeng S. Mokgalaka, Funzani Asnath Melato,

Khathutshelo Netshiongolwe

et al.

ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS RESEARCH, Journal Year: 2024, Volume and Issue: 13(1)

Published: Dec. 27, 2024

This review examines the occurrence and fate of microplastics (MPs) in freshwater, marine, terrestrial environments South Africa. MPs were found Tshwane Johannesburg drinking water samples, with concentrations as high 0.189 particles/L. Concentrations freshwater bodies greater, sometimes reaching 0.33–56 MP levels marine sediments greater than many worldwide averages, particularly along southeast coast (up to 45,867 particles/kg) air 1–5 particles/m3. These values are line figures around globe which stand at 0.1–10 particles/L, 0.3–10 particles/m3 for water, respectively. Low-density PE, PP, PE-HD most prevalent polymers identified. Although there is little data, inappropriate disposal waste a major cause soil contamination, serious concern. The study highlights how important it conduct more research close knowledge gaps, especially regarding groundwater their impact on human health. findings emphasise necessity improved wastewater treatment technologies, public awareness initiatives, stronger laws governing single-use plastics. Standardizing detection techniques, improving our transport, estimating effects exposure health should be main goals future research. Effective cooperation between researchers, legislators, industry necessary mitigation initiatives successful.

Language: Английский

Microplastic occurrence and fate in the South African environment: a review DOI Creative Commons
Ntebogeng S. Mokgalaka, Funzani Asnath Melato,

Khathutshelo Netshiongolwe

et al.

ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS RESEARCH, Journal Year: 2024, Volume and Issue: 13(1)

Published: Dec. 27, 2024

This review examines the occurrence and fate of microplastics (MPs) in freshwater, marine, terrestrial environments South Africa. MPs were found Tshwane Johannesburg drinking water samples, with concentrations as high 0.189 particles/L. Concentrations freshwater bodies greater, sometimes reaching 0.33–56 MP levels marine sediments greater than many worldwide averages, particularly along southeast coast (up to 45,867 particles/kg) air 1–5 particles/m3. These values are line figures around globe which stand at 0.1–10 particles/L, 0.3–10 particles/m3 for water, respectively. Low-density PE, PP, PE-HD most prevalent polymers identified. Although there is little data, inappropriate disposal waste a major cause soil contamination, serious concern. The study highlights how important it conduct more research close knowledge gaps, especially regarding groundwater their impact on human health. findings emphasise necessity improved wastewater treatment technologies, public awareness initiatives, stronger laws governing single-use plastics. Standardizing detection techniques, improving our transport, estimating effects exposure health should be main goals future research. Effective cooperation between researchers, legislators, industry necessary mitigation initiatives successful.

Language: Английский

Citations

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