RT journal article
T1 Unveiling coastal pollution: A multi-technology approach to micro and macro litter assessment for the environmental characterization of beaches
A1 Sasso, C.
A1 Rizzo, A.
A1 Mastronuzzi, G.
A1 Anfuso Melfi, Giorgio
A1 Lapietra, I.
A1 Liso, I.S.
A1 Marsico, A.
A1 Sozio, Angelo
A1 Scicchitano, G.
A2 Ciencias de la Tierra
K1 Beach litter
K1 Coastal morphodynamics
K1 Environmental indices
K1 Microplastics
K1 Apulia region
K1 Italy
AB Plastic pollution is a significant environmental issue impacting the Mediterranean basin. Plastic debris, ranging from micro- to macro-plastics, is widespread in various marine environments, particularly along the coast. This study proposes an environmental characterization of the beach environment by utilizing innovative, low-impact, and replicable procedures to assess the densities and composition of microplastics (MPs) and beach litter (BL) at Capitolo Beach close to Monopoli (Bari, southern Italy). The area holds remarkable regional environmental and touristic value. Nevertheless, the environmental quality is influenced by the cyclonic Adriatic circulation pattern. The collected data enable the identification of litter accumulation hotspots, for which tailored management practices are needed. Samples analysis showed the presence of MPs with average values of 2167 MPs/kg (89% fibers), while from the visual screening observation, 80 BL items were detected (83% artificial polymers). Finally, the use of environmental indices allowed the classification of the beach as “very clean” according to the Clean Coast Index (CCI), though it exhibits a “very high” concentration of MPs, as indicated by the Microplastic Pollution Index (MPPI).
PB Elsevier
SN 0025-326X
YR 2025
FD 2025-07-14
LK http://hdl.handle.net/10498/37868
UL http://hdl.handle.net/10498/37868
LA eng
DS Repositorio Institucional de la Universidad de Cádiz
RD 10-may-2026