Microplastics in tropical coastal and river sediments in a non-industrial urban area: Correlations with land use and potential sources

Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

1 Faculty of Science and Technology, UIN Ar-Raniry Banda Aceh, Jln. Syekh Abdurrauf Kopelma Darussalam, Banda Aceh, 23111, Indonesia

2 Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Lambung Mangkurat University, Jl. Brigadier General H. Hasan Basri, Pangeran, Kec. North Banjarmasin, Banjarmasin City, South Kalimantan, 70123, Indonesia

Abstract

This study investigated the complex relationships among environmental factors in coastal settings and identified potential sources of microplastics in tropical coastal and river sediments within a non-industrial urban area. The research was conducted along the northern coast of Aceh, Indonesia, encompassing two river estuaries: the Krueng Aceh and Krueng Lamnyong. The results indicate that land use, population density, and distance from the river estuary influence the distribution of microplastics in coastal sediments. The Krueng Aceh River, which is associated with a higher population density, exhibited greater levels of microplastic contamination than the Krueng Lamnyong River. The formation of estuarine turbidity maxima (ETM) is considered a key factor controlling microplastic distribution along the Krueng Aceh River, whereas distribution patterns in the Krueng Lamnyong River appear to be more strongly influenced by local anthropogenic activities and environmental conditions. The study area is distinctive because, despite the absence of major industrial sources, identifying microplastic origins remains complex. In coastal zones, tourist sites tend to exhibit lower microplastic abundances, likely due to stricter waste management practices, whereas non-tourist areas show higher levels of contamination. This study provides new insights into the distribution and potential sources of microplastics in tropical non-industrial urban environments and offers a foundation for developing more effective mitigation strategies for microplastic pollution.

Graphical Abstract

Microplastics in tropical coastal and river sediments in a non-industrial urban area: Correlations with land use and potential sources

Keywords

Main Subjects

References

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Advances in Environmental Technology
Volume 12, Issue 3
2026
Pages 341-359

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History

  • Receive Date: 05 December 2024
  • Revise Date: 16 May 2026
  • Accept Date: 18 May 2026

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