Analysis of Microplastic Fibre Distribution around the Coastal Zones of the Islands of Samos and Lipsi, Greece

Title:
Analysis of Microplastic Fibre Distribution around the Coastal Zones of the Islands of Samos and Lipsi, Greece
Authors:
Fransen, W., Parkes, Wright, Michalopoulou, Miliou, A.

Abstract:
Microplastic accumulation is a growing concern within the marine environment. However, little is known about the sources and processes of distribution. This case study focuses on the Greek islands of Samos and Lipsi in the eastern Aegean Sea and assesses the levels of microplastic fibres in beach sediments. Beach sediment samples were processed using filtration and analysed via microscopy. All samples were found to contain microplastic fibres of a variety of colours, with transparent fibres being the most abundant. The synoptic weather state of the sampling days are also presented.

Keywords: [Marine] [Pollution] [Aegean Sea] [Plastic Debris]