ABUNDANCE AND DISTRIBUTION OF MICROPLASTICS IN THE COASTAL ENVIRONMENTS OF MACAO: ANALYSIS OF MANGROVE AND NON-MANGROVE AREAS

The pervasive presence of microplastics in the environment constitues a significant challenge for internationalntern conservation efforts. Since the increase in anthropogentic activities and inadequate plastic waste management over all years, Macao coastal ecosystems have been greatly impacted. Therefore, it is essential to assess the presence and characteristics of microplastics in both waters and sediments along the coastlines of Macao particularly focusing on mangrove and non-mangrove areas. This evaluation aims to gather data on the sources, transport mechanisms, and ecological impacts of microplastics in Macao's coastal waters. A recent local report has indicated that Macao's water sources are not completely free from contamination. This has become a significant concern, as coastal and wastewater sources are heavily polluted with microplastic particles. Macao has been referred to as one of the world's most pressing plastic ocean pollution areas, with one of the highest rates of such pollution globally. Microplastics, however, are not the only plastic pollutant found, as nanoplastics have been found in shore waters, harming ocean ecosystems and becoming incorporated into the food chain. This research was used to quantitatively estimate the density and occurrence of microplastics in Macao coastal ecosystems in mangrove and non-mangrove areas (Taipa Mangroves Wetland, Cotai Ecological Reserve, Coloane Village Wetland) and Hac Sa beach. The results show that the non-mangrove site has a density of microplastics at 267.98 pieces/kg, which has the lowest of all the sampling stations, and Taipa Mangroves Wetland, with the highest concentration of microplastics within the forest among the sampling stations in the mangrove zone of Macau. This research can also provide useful information for environmental conservation and management plans.