First record of an Anthropocene marker plastiglomerate in Andaman Island, India. (May 2023)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Goswami, Prasun; Bhadury, Punyasloke
• Is Part Of: Marine pollution bulletin. Volume 190(2023)
• Publication Date: 2023-05
• Subjects: Anthropocene marker -- Plastic pollution -- Conglomerate -- Plastic rock -- Micro-Raman; 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.2023.114802
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0025-326X

Abstract

Abstract: One of the most significant environmental issues confronting our world is plastic trash, which is of particular concern to the marine environment. The sedimentary record of the planet may likely one day contain a horizon of plastic that can be potentially identified as an Anthropocene marker. Here we report the presence of 'plastiglomerate' from coastal habitats located in the Aves Island, Andaman Sea, India. This novel form of plastic pollution forms with the incineration of plastic litter in the environment and then mixing of organic/inorganic composite materials in the molten plastic matrix. The plastic pollutants were collected from the Aves Island beach during marine litter surveys. Micro-Raman (μ-Raman) spectroscopy was used to evaluate and confirm all putative plastic forms. Plastiglomerates were made of a polyethylene (PE) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) matrix with inclusions of rock and sand. Therefore, our research offers new insight into the intricate process of plastiglomerates formation. Graphical abstract: Unlabelled Image Highlights: First record on the occurrences of plastiglomerate in Indian sub-continent Two polymers, polyethylene and polyvinyl chloride were recorded on the rock. Illicit burning of plastic waste could be a possible source. Further research required to understand the effects of these plastiglomerate on marine ecosystem health.