A first assessment of marine meso-litter and microplastics on beaches: Where does Mauritius stand?. (December 2021)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Mattan-Moorgawa, Sushma; Chockalingum, Jemina; Appadoo, Chandani
• Is Part Of: Marine pollution bulletin. Volume 173:Part B(2021)
• Publication Date: 2021-12
• Subjects: Marine litter -- Meso-litter -- Microplastics -- Standing stock -- Pollution; 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.2021.112941
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0025-326X

Abstract

Abstract: Marine litter is a major global concern that is threatening marine ecosystems. This study assessed the meso-litter and microplastics density around Mauritius Island, South West Indian Ocean (SWIO) region. WIOMSA guidelines were used for meso-litter and microplastics sampling from October to December 2019 at 12 sites. A total of 1095 meso-litter items (weighing 1250 g) was sampled. Plastics were the most abundant litter category. 'Shoreline and recreational activities' were the main meso-litter source. Microplastics density was highest at the vegetation line (VL) zone. Fragments, mostly blue-coloured, were the most encountered type of microplastics, and polyethylene was the most prevalent polymer type. This study provides important baseline data which can be used by relevant authorities for more effective waste management strategies and awareness campaigns that will help further mitigate the marine litter problem in Mauritius, and to check the effectiveness of management measures in place. Highlights: Marine mesolitter and microplastics in sandy beaches on a small island state Ubiquity of plastics, of anthropogenic origin mainly related to shoreline and recreational activities Most common microplastics type is fragment, mainly blue-coloured, of polyethylene origin Microplastics densities highest on vegetation line and wind-exposed sites