This
study
evaluated
changes
in
microplastic
(MP)
distribution,
composition,
and
ecological
risks
two
coastal
harbors
Taiwan
before
during
the
COVID-19
lockdown.
Surface
water
samples
collected
at
fish
revealed
that
while
overall
MP
concentrations
declined
most
sites
lockdown,
localized
increases
were
detected,
underscoring
spatial
heterogeneity
influence
of
site-specific
factors.
Analysis
particle
characteristics
showed
a
shift
toward
smaller
size
fractions
(25–50
μm)
an
ongoing
dominance
fragments,
alongside
modest
films,
fibers,
microbeads.
Notably,
polymer
types
observed,
including
marked
reduction
rayon—likely
reflecting
decreased
human
visitation—and
increased
prevalence
polyethylene
(PE)
linked
to
packaging
delivery
services.
The
emergence
polymethyl
methacrylate
(PMMA)
possibly
heightened
use
protective
materials,
elevated
site's
risk
category.
These
findings
highlight
complexity
pollution
dynamics,
demonstrating
short-term
alterations
behavior
can
reshape
assemblages
associated
risks.
Continued
monitoring
targeted
mitigation
strategies,
particularly
periods
disrupted
socioeconomic
activity,
are
essential
for
reducing
inputs
safeguarding
marine
environments.
Applied Water Science,
Journal Year:
2023,
Volume and Issue:
13(12)
Published: Nov. 7, 2023
Abstract
The
COVID-19
pandemic
has
led
to
a
significant
increase
in
the
global
use
of
face
masks,
with
reports
indicating
that
approximately
129
billion
people
worldwide
them
every
month.
Many
masks
contain
MPs,
which
can
pose
environmental
and
health
risks.
aim
this
study
is
assess
properties
MPs
are
released
from
ten
different
mask
brands.
were
selected
weighed,
immersed
deionized
distilled
water,
stirred,
into
water
collected
using
cellulose
ester
membrane.
then
analyzed
an
optical
microscope
observe
their
shape
color.
results
showed
rates
N95
surgical
3D
54,
23,
23%,
respectively.
had
highest
percentage
due
its
heavy
weight.
observed
shapes
terms
abundance
percentage,
filamentous
>
spherical
irregular
fragmented.
Furthermore,
majority
found
be
transparent
or
black
This
offers
valuable
insights
mechanisms
behind
release
disposable
shedding
light
on
critical
issue
microplastic
pollution
resulting
waste.
The Science of The Total Environment,
Journal Year:
2023,
Volume and Issue:
894, P. 164952 - 164952
Published: June 17, 2023
The
ubiquitous
presence
of
microplastics
(MPs)
in
the
ocean
represents
a
potential
threat
to
marine
organisms,
with
poorly
understood
long-term
adverse
effects,
including
exposure
plastic
additives.
present
study
investigated
ingestion
MPs
two
epipelagic
fish
species
(Trachurus
picturatus
and
Scomber
colias)
three
pelagic
squid
(Loligo
vulgaris,
Ommastrephes
caroli
Sthenoteuthis
pteropus)
from
an
open
oceanic
region
Northeast
Atlantic.
Seven
phthalate
esters
(PAEs)
were
also
analysed
organisms'
tissue,
correlation
between
PAEs
concentrations
ingested
was
investigated.
Seventy-two
20
specimens
collected
analysed.
found
digestive
tract
all
species'
gills
ink
sacs.
highest
occurrence
stomach
S.
colias
(85
%)
lowest
sac
O.
L.
vulgaris
(12
%).
Most
particles
identified
(>90
fibres.
Among
ecological
biological
factors
considered
(dietary
preferences,
season,
body
size,
total
weight,
liver
hepatosomatic
index
gastrosomatic
index),
only
(GSI)
season
significant
predictors
species,
greater
likelihood
cold
higher
GSI
values
(i.e.
feeding
intensity).
Four
(DEP,
DIBP,
BBP,
DEHP)
detected
analysed,
average
∑PAEs
ranging
10.31
30.86
ng/g
(wet
weight).
DIBP
positively
correlated
MPs,
suggesting
this
compound
might
represent
"plastic
tracer".
This
looks
into
problem
for
region,
highlighting
most
suitable
bioindicators
providing
essential
insights
that
may
influence
rates.
Additionally,
detection
indicates
need
further
research
on
contamination
sources,
effects
these
chemicals
risks
human
health
through
seafood
consumption.
