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A recent study published on 30 April 2020 in the Journal\nScience reports areas of accumulation of microplastics in the Mediterranean\nseabed at levels never before measured.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Indeed, quantities of up to 1.9 million units over an area\nof one square metre have been found.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The study was conducted jointly by the University of\nManchester, the National Oceanography Center, the University of Bremen, the\nUniversity of Durham and IFREMER.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Microplastic pollution in rivers is known, but the\nmechanisms relating to their dispersion and concentration on the seabed are\nstill poorly understood.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The study has shown how deep-sea currents transport and\nconcentrate microplastics and carry them to the depths in accumulation zones\ncalled hotspots. Microplastics on the seabed are made of textile fibres that\nhave not been removed in sewage treatment plants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
These currents also carry oxygen and nutrients, which means\nthat they can also harbour animal species that can potentially consume or\nabsorb the microplastics present.<\/p>\n\n\n\n