In the heart of the Niger Delta, a recent study has shed light on the microplastics problem in the Escravos Estuary, a crucial waterway for both marine life and local communities. Amarachi P. Onyena, from the Department of Environmental Management and Pollution at the Nigeria Maritime University in Okerenkoko, Delta, Nigeria, led the research published in ‘Scientific African’ (formerly known as ‘African Journal of Science, Technology, Innovation and Development’). The findings are a wake-up call for maritime professionals, highlighting both the challenges and opportunities in the face of microplastic pollution.
The study, which analyzed water, sediment, and seafood samples from two locations along the estuary, found that microplastics are indeed present and varied in size, ranging from a mere 4.2 µm to a whopping 800 µm. The most common types were fibres and fragments, with a notable absence of pellets in one of the locations. The study also found that blue was the dominant colour, with a significant presence of filaments and fibres in both locations. The study found that “Water samples showed an average of 0.33 ± 0.21 particles/L for films and 3.67 ± 0.49 particles/L for fibres.” This is a clear indication that the water is contaminated with microplastics.
The implications for the maritime sector are significant. Microplastics can accumulate in the food chain, posing risks to both marine life and human health. This could potentially impact the livelihoods of local communities that rely on fishing and other marine-related activities. The study also identified various types of plastics, including polystyrene in water, nylon in sediment and fish, PVC in sediment, and PET in crabs. This suggests that the pollution sources are varied and likely include industrial activities.
However, the study also presents opportunities. By understanding the sources and types of microplastics, maritime professionals can work towards developing targeted solutions. This could include improved waste management practices, increased public awareness, and the development of new technologies to mitigate microplastic pollution. The study also highlights the need for ongoing research, which could open up new avenues for collaboration and innovation in the maritime sector.
The findings also underscore the importance of monitoring and managing microplastic pollution in the Escravos Estuary. This could involve regular sampling and analysis, as well as the implementation of policies and regulations to reduce plastic waste. The study found that “Principal Component Analysis indicated industrial sources for certain MPs, while linear regression revealed a weak negative relationship between MPs concentrations in different matrices (adjusted R² = 0.053).” This suggests that industrial activities are a significant source of microplastic pollution, and that there is a complex relationship between microplastic concentrations in different environmental matrices.
In summary, the study by Amarachi P. Onyena and her team is a call to action for the maritime sector. It highlights the challenges posed by microplastic pollution, but also the opportunities for innovation and collaboration. By working together, maritime professionals can help to safeguard the Escravos Estuary and its communities, ensuring a sustainable future for all.
