Microplastics in the Amazon biome: State of the art and future priorities

Abstract

Microplastics (MPs) have been identified as a major potential threat to the biota and human health. Despite the exponential increase in MP research worldwide, few studies have focused on the extensive Amazon biome. To assess research priorities, the present study reviewed and summarized the available scientific knowledge on MPs in the Amazon, in addition to analyzing population and waste-management data, to evaluate potential sources of MPs in the hydrographic system. Poor sanitation conditions are a main source of MPs for the vast hydrographic basin, and, consequently, for the adjacent ocean. Secondary MPs predominated, mostly fibers (96% of debris), composed of polyamide (32%). Mean MP concentrations ranged from 0.34 to 38.3 particles.individual ⁻¹ in biota, 5 to 476,000 particles.m ⁻³ in water, and 492.5 to 1.30848 × 10 ⁷ particles.m ⁻³ in sediment, values in close comparison with those found in areas profoundly affected by anthropogenic pollution. MPs were widespread in a range of Amazonian environments and species, and negative effects are probably occurring at various ecological levels. However, limited research, methodological constraints, flaws and the lack of standardization, combined with the continental dimensions of the Amazon, hampers the collection of the fundamental knowledge needed to reliably evaluate the impacts and implement effective mitigation measures. There is an urgent need to expand scientific data available for the region, improving local research infrastructure, and training and deploying local researchers.

Graphical abstract

Highlights

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  Twenty-four articles on microplastic pollution in the Amazon were identified.

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  Sampling and processing methods varied considerably among the studies.

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  Microplastics were widespread in the river basins analyzed in the Amazon region.

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  Secondary microplastics in the form of fibers were dominant.

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  Poor sanitation conditions makes the Amazon a potential microplastics hotspot.