Reviewing the interdecadal dynamics of micropollutants in the Tanzanian coastal zone from 2002 to 2022.

Abstract

The Tanzanian coast is a vastly diversified ecosystem offering ecological, cultural, and economic services. However, anthropogenic and environmental stressors threaten its productivity and sustainability, prompting extensive research to understand the contamination extent, sources, and impacts. This review covers 77 original field research studies published between 2002 and 2022, focusing on the Tanzanian coastal area. A summary of information on the occurrences, levels, distributions, sources, and impacts of organic and inorganic micropollutants in environmental and biological compartments is provided. The studies were further discussed based on their research focus, where seven key areas were identified, which included the types of micropollutants analyzed, the parameters sampled, the locations investigated, and the crucial conclusions reached. The aim was to evaluate the research trends and identify gaps for future investigations. The studies reveal varying contamination levels, from low to severe, encompassing metals, persistent organic pollutants, pesticide residues, nutrients, and microbial contaminants. However, data gaps exist for micropollutant concentrations in ambient air, microplastics, pharmaceuticals, and emerging contaminants of concern. With increasing urbanization and socio-economic activities, the review emphasizes the necessity for solution-based research to remove and control micropollutants in the area. Addressing these challenges is crucial for sustaining the diverse ecological nature of this vital coastal system.