Meso- and microplastics monitoring in harbour environments: A case study for the Port of Durban, South Africa. (February 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Preston-Whyte, Fiona; Silburn, Briony; Meakins, Bryony; Bakir, Adil; Pillay, Keshnee; Worship, Marco; Paruk, Siraj; Mdazuka, Yandiswa; Mooi, Gcobani; Harmer, Rogan; Doran, Denise; Tooley, Freya; Maes, Thomas
• Is Part Of: Marine pollution bulletin. Volume 163(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-02
• Subjects: Microplastic -- Mesoplastic -- Harbour -- Sediment -- Water column -- Port of Durban -- Microplastic pump; Marine pollution -- Periodicals; Marine Biology -- Periodicals; Water Pollution -- Periodicals; Mer -- Pollution -- Périodiques; Publications périodiques; Pollution des mers; Lutte antipollution; Electronic journals; 363.7394
• DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2020.111948
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0025-326X

Abstract

Abstract: An investigation into the abundance and distribution of meso- and microplastics within the Port of Durban was conducted using a static immersible water pump and particle filtration system to collect meso- and microplastics from the water column, microplastics from sediment samples and corresponding CTD. Microplastics were detected in all samples under investigation. Results suggest that sewage overflow, stormwater drains, port operations, followed by rivers are input areas for mitigation to focus on. Identifying meso- and microplastics inputs, baselines and distribution allow for long term monitoring and management in a harbour environment. This can potentially contribute to the control and regulation of small plastics particles in harbours, and the subsequent transport of these pollutants via dredged material into other ecosystems. Highlights: Considerations for microplastic monitoring in relation to dredging, a Port of Durban perspective Sampling of meso- and microplastics from near surface waters and microplastics in sediment Microplastics were detected in all water and sediment samples from the Port of Durban. Sewage overflow, storm water drains, operational activity and rivers all contributed to plastic contamination.