Earth Sciences Publications
Sources and Sinks of Microplastics in Canadian Lake Ontario Nearshore, Tributary and Beach Sediments
Document Type
Article
Publication Date
2016
Volume
110
Journal
Marine Pollution Bulletin
First Page
383
URL with Digital Object Identifier
http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.marpolbul.2016.06.037
Last Page
395
Abstract
Microplastics contamination of Lake Ontario sediments is investigated with the aim of identifying distribution patterns and hotspots in nearshore, tributary and beach depositional environments. Microplastics are concentrated in nearshore sediments in the vicinity of urban and industrial regions. InHumber Bay and Toronto Harbour microplastic concentrations were consistently greater than 500 particles per kg dry sediment. Maximum concentrations of ~28,000 particles per kg dry sediment were determined in Etobicoke Creek. The microplastic particles were primarily fibres and fragments less than 2 mm in size. Both low- and high-density plastics were identified using Raman spectroscopy. We provide a baseline for future monitoring and discuss potential sources of microplastics in terms of how and where to implement preventative measures to reduce the contaminant influx. Although the impacts of microplastics contamination on ecosystem health and functioning is uncertain, understanding, monitoring and preventing further microplastics contamination in Lake Ontario and the other Great Lakes is crucial.
