Snapshot Sampling May Not Be Enough to Obtain Robust Estimates for Riverine Microplastic Loads

Anna Kukkola*, Uwe Schneidewind, Lee Haverson, Liam Kelleher, Jennifer D. Drummond, Gregory Sambrook Smith, Iseult Lynch, Stefan Krause

*Corresponding author for this work

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

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Abstract

Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) have been described as key contributors of microplastics (MPs) to aquatic systems, yet temporal fluctuations in MP concentrations and loads downstream are underexplored. This study investigated how different sampling frequencies (hourly, weekly, and monthly) affect MP estimates in a stream linked to a single WWTP. Utilizing fluorescence microscopy and Raman spectroscopy, considerable hourly variations in MP concentrations were discovered, while the polymer composition remained consistent. This temporal variability in MP loads was influenced by MP concentration, discharge rates, or a mix of both. These results show a high uncertainty, as relying on sparse snapshot samples combined with annual discharge data led to significant uncertainties in MP load estimates (over- and/or underestimation of emissions by 3.8 billion MPs annually at this site). Our findings stress the necessity of higher-frequency sampling for better comprehending the hydrodynamic factors influencing MP transport. This improved understanding enables a more accurate quantification of MP dynamics, crucial for downstream impact assessments. Therefore, preliminary reconnaissance campaigns are essential for designing extended, representative site-monitoring programs and ensuring more precise trend predictions on a larger scale.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)2309-2319
Number of pages11
JournalACS ES and T Water
Volume4
Issue number5
Early online date12 Apr 2024
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 10 May 2024

Bibliographical note

Publisher Copyright:
© 2024 The Authors. Published by American Chemical Society.

Keywords

  • campaign
  • distribution
  • sampling frequency
  • temporal
  • WWTP

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Chemistry (miscellaneous)
  • Chemical Engineering (miscellaneous)
  • Environmental Chemistry
  • Water Science and Technology

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