Debris Items Research Articles

Macrodebitage Writ Small? Studying Stoneknapping with Experimental Archaeology, Dynamic Image Analysis, and Statistics

ABSTRACT Microscopic artifacts help archaeologists study ancient societies and site formation processes. They have struggled to analyze them objectively, though. The traditional microscope-based approach has limited the number of samples and increased intra- and inter-observer errors. Here, we present an alternative based on experimental archaeology, Dynamic Image Analysis (DIA), and statistics. We ask whether microdebitage – the almost invisible debris from stone-knapping – has the same shape as macrodebitage or lithic artifacts wider than 4 mm. We collaborated with four modern stone-knappers to gather lithic debris. A new type of particle analyzer allowed us to measure five relevant variables for 23,694 knapping debris items. We use DIA to count, describe, and size-grade the debitage. We then analyze the resulting spreadsheet statistically. The results indicate highly significant statistical differences between microdebitage and macrodebitage as well as among microdebitage size classes. Combining experimental archaeology, DIA, and statistics enables the quantitative study of microdebitage.

Assessment of plastic debris and biofouling in a specially protected area of the Antarctic Peninsula region

The aim of this paper is to characterize the plastic and to study a potential relationship between plastic debris characteristics and the presence of fouling biota in an Antarctic Specially Protected Area Robert Island, on the Antarctic peninsula region. A combination of lab-based sorting, advanced spectral analysis and general linear modelling was used to assess the abundance and type of plastic debris washed up on the shore. Observations recorded 730 debris items, with 85 % being plastic. Polystyrene (PS) and Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) were the dominant plastics (61 %). Biofouling was observed on 25 % of plastic debris, with debris complexity and degradation significantly increasing the likelihood of fouling occurring. There was no correlation found between biofouling type and plastic polymer type. Findings raise concerns that even with the highest level of environmental protection, an external marine-based source of pollution can intrude the coastal habitat, with uncertain consequences to local flora and fauna.

Quantification of additives in beached plastic debris from Aotearoa New Zealand

Plastics have become an essential part of modern society. Their properties can be easily manipulated by incorporating additives to impart desirable attributes, such as colour, flexibility, or stability. However, many additives are classified as hazardous substances. To better understand the risk of plastic pollution within marine ecosystems, the type and concentration of additives in plastic debris needs to be established. We report the quantification of thirty-one common plastic additives (including plasticisers, antioxidants, and UV stabilisers) in beached plastic debris collected across Aotearoa New Zealand. Additives were isolated from the plastic debris by solvent extraction and quantified using high-resolution liquid chromatography-mass spectrometry. Twenty-five of the target additives were detected across 200 items of debris, with plasticisers detected at the highest frequency (99 % detection frequency). Additives were detected in all samples, with a median of four additives per debris item. A significantly higher number of additives were detected per debris item for polyvinyl chloride (median = 7) than polyethylene or polypropylene (median = 4). The additives bis(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate, diisononyl phthalate, diisodecyl phthalate, and antioxidant 702 were detected at the highest concentrations (up to 196,930 μg/g). The sum concentration of additives per debris item (up to 320,325 μg/g) was significantly higher in polyvinyl chloride plastics (median 94,716 μg/g) compared to other plastic types, primarily due to the presence of phthalate plasticisers. Non-target analysis was consistent with the targeted analysis, indicating a higher number and concentration of additives in polyvinyl chloride debris items compared to all other polymer types. Feature identification indicated the presence of more additives than previously detected in the targeted analysis, including plasticisers (phthalate and non-phthalate), processing aids, and nucleating agents. This study highlights phthalates and polyvinyl chloride as key targets for consideration in ecotoxicology and risk assessments, and the development of policies to reduce the impacts of plastic pollution.

Anthropogenic debris pollution in yellow-legged gull (Larus michahellis atlantis) nests in biosphere reserves of the Canary Islands

Anthropogenic debris, particularly plastic pollution, has emerged as a significant environmental threat to biodiversity. Given that seabirds interact with artificial debris through ingestion, entanglement, and nest incorporation, it is particularly important to quantify the quantity, origins, and chemical composition of these debris items. In this work, it was evaluated for the first time the occurrence of anthropogenic debris in nests of yellow-legged gull (Larus michahellis atlantis) in biosphere reserves of the Canary Islands (Spain). A total of 48 abandoned nests were collected from five remote and hardly accessible sampling areas, revealing that 81.3 % contained anthropogenic waste, with plastic accounting for 34.7 % of the debris, followed by metal (33.6 %) and paper (19.6 %). On average, 32.8 ± 40.9 items were found per nest. Regarding the origin, food packagings (47.8 %), personal hygiene products (21.7 %), and textiles (15.8 %) were identified as the predominant sources. Furthermore, the polymer composition of the plastics was characterised by means of Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy analysis, being polyester the most abundant (38.2 %), followed by polyethylene (25.6 %) and rayon (10.3 %). The incorporation of anthropogenic debris into nest construction may result from outdoor human activities carried out far from nesting areas.

Gujarat’s plastic plight: unveiling characterization, abundance, and pollution index of beachside plastic pollution

Plastic pollution poses a pervasive threat to ecosystems worldwide, jeopardizing marine life, contaminating water sources, and perpetuating a global environmental crisis. Spatial and temporal distribution of beach debris was quantitatively assessed on three recreational beaches in Gujarat State, India. A total of six debris categories were recorded with a mean of 0.9 items/m2 in number and 3.62 g/m2 in weight. A total of Mean debris concentrations and weight per debris item did not vary significantly between study sites. Highest debris concentrations were observed in October 2021 at all sites. Around 90% was macro-debris (2.5–100 cm), with white and transparent colours most frequently encountered. Based on Clean Coast Index findings, all sites were categorized as "dirty". Plastic Abundance Index revealed that all sites had a very high abundance of plastics compared to other beach debris. Recreational activities on beaches, tourism, and extensive fishing can be the possible source of marine debris on Gujarat State. The findings of the current investigation is vital to understanding its pervasive environmental impact, encompassing threats to biodiversity, water quality, and ecosystems, while guiding effective policies to mitigate these repercussions on a global scale. It can be helpful to establish mitigation strategies urgently required to reduce marine debris pollution along the Gujarat Coast. It is recomanded to implement urgently needed mitigation strategies to diminish marine debris pollution along the Gujarat Coast.

Dynamics of marine debris in the point calimere wildlife and bird sanctuary wetland, southeastern coast of India

Marine debris pollution in wetlands is a largely neglected problem despite its impact on the biodiversity. This manuscript presents the findings of a comprehensive study conducted in the Point Calimere wetland, spanning March 2022 to February 2023, to assess the abundance, composition, and sources of anthropogenic debris. During the survey, 1760 debris items weighing 192.51 kg were collected from fifteen transects, revealing significant variations in both count and weight across the sampling sites. Plastic debris was predominant in terms of both count and weight, followed by cloth/fabric. They emerged as the most prevalent type, exhibiting the widest count range and maximum abundance per transect. Specific debris types, such as plastic rope/small net pieces, were more prevalent in both count and weight. Analysis of debris per square meter indicated an average abundance of 1.23 ± 1.17 items and an average weight of 144.34 ± 70.01 g. Statistical analysis confirmed the significant influence of transects and quadrats on debris count abundance, with varying effects across different transects. The study also identified shoreline and recreational activities and ocean/water activities as primary sources of marine debris. Land-based sources had a higher count, while sea-based sources contributed more to the overall weight. These findings provide valuable insights into marine debris distribution, composition, and sources, which can inform targeted mitigation strategies and conservation efforts.

Characterization of marine litter on the beaches surrounding Marchica Lagoon, Morocco

Marchica lagoon, a Ramsar site on Morocco's Mediterranean coast, has emerged as a prominent tourist destination within the Mediterranean region. However, the summer tourism is often accompanied by a rise in waste accumulation, especially on the surrounding beaches. The focus of this study is a detailed analysis of marine litter found on the beaches near Marchica Lagoon, specifically Al Mohandis, Bocana, and Nador Artificial Beach. The data collection for this study was carried out over a three-day period prior to the summer season in June 2023. The methodology adhered to the established protocols of the "Guidance on Monitoring of Marine Litter in European Seas." A total of 731 items of marine debris were collected from these three beaches, with an overall weight of 20395 kg. The composition of the collected debris revealed that polymer materials were the most prevalent, accounting for 81% of the total debris, followed by paper/cardboard (6.3%), metal (6.2%), processed wood (2.9%), glass/ceramics (1.9%), and cloth/textile (1.78%). The analysis indicates that the majority of the marine debris is associated with the activities of beach visitors. It is recommended that public awareness initiatives be implemented and solid waste management practices improved.

The COVID-19 pandemic "anthropause" decreased plastic ingestion in neotropic cormorants Nannopterum brasilianus in Lima, Peru.

The anthropause during the recent COVID-19 pandemic provided a unique opportunity to examine the impact of human activity on seabirds. Lockdowns in Peru prevented people from visiting coastal areas, thereby reducing garbage disposal on beaches and the movement of microplastics into the ocean. This cessation of activities likely led to a temporary decrease in plastic pollution in coastal regions. We aimed to investigate this phenomenon in inshore-feeding neotropic cormorants (Nannopterum brasilianus) along the Circuito de Playas Costa Verde (CPCV), situated on the coastal strip of Lima, Peru (∼11 million people). We collected and analyzed fresh pellets along the CPCV before (over 11 months) and during the pandemic lockdowns (over 8 months). Our findings revealed a significant reduction in the occurrence of plastic in pellets during the pandemic period (% Oc = 2.47, n=647 pellets) compared to pre-pandemic conditions (% Oc = 7.13, n=800 pellets). The most common plastic debris item found in the pellets was threadlike microplastic. Additionally, our study highlights the direct correlation between human presence on beaches and the quantity of microplastics (mainly threadlike) found in cormorant pellets. We suggest that the reintroduction of these materials into the sea, previously accumulated on the coast, is likely facilitated by the movement and activity of beachgoers toward the ocean.

Floating marine debris influx in the intertidal zone of offshore islands in Bangladesh: A case study of Manpura Island

Marine Debris is all-pervading in the world's oceans. In this research, for the first time, Floating Marine Debris (FMD) accumulation in the intertidal zone of Manprua island, an offshore island of Bangladesh, is reported. The assessment has been done by integrating both physical investigations and questionnaire survey. The Study shows high debris density on the windward and river-facing sides of the island. The density of debris items in this area varies from 550,000 to 60,000 items per km2 (8.5 to 0.08 g/m2) for transect samples during low tide and 350,000 to 60,000 items per km2 (5.76 to 1.20 g/m2) for net samples during high tide. However, the most damaging debris items are uprooted trees and water hyacinths because they hinder fishing activities. This study provides baseline information on FMD in the Meghna Estuary, which can be used as a reference for sustainable monitoring and management of marine pollution.

Red Light or Green Light?: Legal Considerations for Regulating Traffic in Orbit

The number of functional and non-functional satellites, and other pieces of orbital debris, is constantly increasing due to new space activities, including use of large constellations of small satellites, and the growth of commercial space missions. Congestion in space challenges the ongoing safety, security and sustainability of space activities and space assets. There are now more than one million debris items larger than 1cm orbiting the Earth, and this number may grow exponentially as more than 100,000 additional satellites are planned for launch over the next ten years. These will only add to the increasing risk of damage and destruction to any satellite involved in case of a collision in space. In this context, there is a necessity to develop a Space Traffic Management (STM) regime that encompasses the means and the rules to safely access, conduct activities in, and return from outer space. It would also aim to protect the Long-Term Sustainability (LTS) of space activities by ensuring that space remains a secure environment, even as global society relies ever more on space-based applications such as communications, navigation and Earth observation. This article examines those rules present in the current space legal framework that are relevant to the regulation of space traffic and analyses two key concepts for establishing a comprehensive STM regime, namely the monitoring of space activities through data access and information sharing, and appropriate coordination mechanisms between states, Space Agencies and private operators. space law, regulation, traffic in orbit, space debris, space situational awareness, information sharing, coordination, international cooperation

Stopping marine debris at the source: Effectiveness of Source Reduction Plans in Australia

Globally, single-use plastics (i.e., items only used once before being discarded plastic, such as straws, plastic bags, cigarette butts) are a substantial contributor of debris in the environment. In response, policy interventions to minimise single-use plastics and packaging have increased in the past decade (e.g., national and state level bans on plastic bags). Reduction strategies that tackle debris items at the source (i.e., Source Reduction Plans (SRPs)) have been suggested as a key strategy to achieve a reduction in debris in the environment. SRPs differ in their implementation approach, since different items require different methods depending on their characteristics, pathway, and source. In Australia, several SRPs have been applied by communities and the Tangaroa Blue Foundation (TBF). Globally, there is a lack of information available concerning the challenges associated with the implementation of SRPs, such as policy considerations and costs. Therefore, there is a need to measuring the effectiveness of specific SRPs as mitigation tools, to identify their strengths and weaknesses, and determine the best reduction approaches for specific items. We measured the effectiveness of two quantifiable SRP projects at different scales: cigarette butts (consumer level) and strapping bands used in fisheries (industrial level). There was a marginally significant decline in strapping bands in the environment over time (2004–2020), although we were unable to associate this directly to the SRP intervention (ban on ships). At a consumer level, there was a decline in the rate of cigarette butts flicked on the ground during sporting events post-SRP, with an overall reduction of 45.4% in number of cigarettes per spectator. Our results suggest the outcomes differ depending on the type of SRP, due to the different characteristics of the tackled item (i.e., source, pathway) and the respective SRP implementation mechanism. We highlight the importance of SRPs and make recommendations on future steps towards reducing single-use plastics in the environment.

Ingestion of marine debris by juvenile Magellanic penguins (Spheniscus magellanicus) in wintering grounds of coastal Argentina

The occurrence of marine debris in the stomach contents of young male and female Spheniscus magellanicus stranded along the Atlantic coast of northern Argentina during its post-breeding exodus is reported for the first time. Marine debris was found in 15.5 % of 148 dead penguins, with a higher proportion of debris found in females when compared to males. A total of 81 debris items was recorded; plastic and paper each contributed with an equal number of debris whereas rubber contributed with a single item. Chemical identification performed using FTIR/ATR revealed that plastic items were largely LDPE and PA; other polymers included HDPE, PP and PS. The average length of fragmented plastic debris are in line with those reported from penguins stranded along the southern Brazilian coasts. Our study indicates that loads of ingested marine debris were roughly five times lower when compared to the estimates for the species in Brazilian beaches.

Journey to the deep: plastic pollution in the hadal of deep-sea trenches.

The global increase of plastic production, linked with an overall plastic misuse and waste mismanagement, leads to an inevitable increase of plastic debris that ends up in our oceans. One of the major sinks of this pollution is the deep-sea floor, which is hypothesized to accumulate in its deepest points, the hadal trenches. Little is known about the magnitude of pollution in these trenches, given the remoteness of these environments, numerous factors influencing the input and sinking behavior of plastic debris from shallower environments. This study represents to the best of our knowledge the largest survey of (macro)plastic debris sampled at hadal depths, down to 9600 m. Industrial packaging and material assignable to fishing activities were the most common debris items in the Kuril Kamchatka trench, most likely deriving from long-distance transport by the Kuroshio extension current (KE) or from regional marine traffic and fishing activities. The chemical analysis by (Attenuated Total Reflection Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy revealed that the main polymers detected were polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP) and nylon. Plastic waste is reaching the depths of the trench, although some of the items were only partially broken down. This finding suggests that complete breakdown into secondary microplastics (MP) may not always occur at the sea surface or though the water column. Due to increased brittleness, plastic debris may break apart upon reaching the hadal trench floor where plastic degrading factors were thought to be, coming off. The KKT's remote location and high sedimentation rates make it a potential site for high levels of plastic pollution, potentially making it one of the world's most heavily contaminated marine areas and an oceanic plastic deposition zone.

Investigation on anthropogenic and opportunistic factors relevant to the incidence of stranded loggerhead sea turtle Caretta caretta along South Tyrrhenian coasts

Caretta Caretta are endangered sea turtles leaving in the Mediterranean Sea. We carried out a study on 195 sea turtles stranded along the coast of Southern Italy, evaluating anthropogenic and opportunistic factors affecting animal health status and probably threatening the species. More than 60% of the animals showed body injuries, mainly caused by marine traffic and fishing. Ingestion of marine litter of various origins was observed in the digestive tract of 38.5% of the turtles investigated. Chelonid herpesvirus 5 was detected (for the first time in this basin) in 10.8% of the turtles, which were however free from fibropapillomatosis. Analyses on trace elements showed a time-dependent reduction in the mean concentrations of Cd and Hg, a decrease in the levels of Pb, and a time-dependent increase of As. Particularly, a site-dependent accumulation of As was detected in turtles from the coasts of Calabria. There is a significant correlation between the levels of As in the kidney of Campania turtles and their straight-line carapace length, indicating a size-dependent accumulation of this metal. Overall, besides dangerous debris items, high levels of trace elements may weaken the immune system of Caretta caretta, the most common turtle of the Mediterranean Sea, making it more likely vulnerable to viruses.

Extent and reproduction of coastal species on plastic debris in the North Pacific Subtropical Gyre

We show that the high seas are colonized by a diverse array of coastal species, which survive and reproduce in the open ocean, contributing strongly to its floating community composition. Analysis of rafting plastic debris in the eastern North Pacific Subtropical Gyre revealed 37 coastal invertebrate taxa, largely of Western Pacific origin, exceeding pelagic taxa richness by threefold. Coastal taxa, including diverse taxonomic groups and life history traits, occurred on 70.5% of debris items. Most coastal taxa possessed either direct development or asexual reproduction, possibly facilitating long-term persistence on rafts. Our results suggest that the historical lack of available substrate limited the colonization of the open ocean by coastal species, rather than physiological or ecological constraints as previously assumed. It appears that coastal species persist now in the open ocean as a substantial component of a neopelagic community sustained by the vast and expanding sea of plastic debris.

Interactions between breeding gulls and monofilament lines at one of the main recreational fishing sites in Argentina

Monofilament fishing lines lost or discarded during recreational fishing activities often result in negative impacts on marine organisms. We assessed the interactions between Kelp and Olrog's gulls (Larus dominicanus and L. atlanticus, respectively) and recreational fishing at Bahía San Blas, Argentina. Monofilament lines constituted 61 and 29 % of total debris items recorded along beaches in the low and high fishing seasons, respectively. A total of 61 balls of tangled lines were also found within Kelp and Olrog's gull colonies. No Olrog's Gulls but nine Kelp Gulls were found tangled with monofilament lines within colony boundaries, seven of which were caught in vegetation. No Kelp or Olrog's gulls foraging in recreational fishing areas were observed tangled with lines. Monofilament lines did not negatively affect gull populations during the study period, but actions are needed to correctly manage their disposal given the relevance of Bahía San Blas as a recreational fishing area in the region.

Where does Arctic beach debris come from? Analyzing debris composition and provenance on Svalbard aided by citizen scientists

Plastic debris is ubiquitous in all ecosystems and has even reached locations that humans will hardly reach such as the deep ocean floor and the atmosphere. Research has highlighted that plastic debris is now pervasive even in remote Arctic regions. While modeling projections indicated local sources and long-distance transport as causes, empirical data about its origin and sources are scarce. Data collected by citizen scientists can increase the scale of observations, especially in such remote regions. Here, we report abundance and composition data of marine debris collected by citizen scientists on 14 remote Arctic beaches on the Spitsbergen archipelago. In addition, citizen scientists collected three large, industrial sized canvas bags (hereafter: big packs), filled with beached debris, of which composition, sources and origin were determined. A total debris mass of 1,620 kg was collected on about 38,000 m2 (total mean = 41.83 g m-2, SEM = ± 31.62). In terms of abundance, 23,000 pieces of debris were collected on 25,500 m2 (total mean = 0.37 items of debris m-2, SEM = ± 0.17). Although most items were plastic in both abundance and mass, fisheries waste, such as nets, rope, and large containers, dominated in mass (87%), and general plastics, such as packaging and plastic articles, dominated in abundance (80%). Fisheries-related debris points to local sea-based sources from vessels operating in the Arctic and nearby. General plastics could point to both land- and ship based sources, as household items are also used on ships and debris can be transported to the north via the oceans current. Overall, 1% of the items (206 out of 14,707 pieces) collected in two big packs (2017 and 2021), bore imprints or labels allowing an analysis of their origin. If the categories ‘global’ and ‘English language’ were excluded, most of identifiable items originated from Arctic states (65%), especially from Russia (32%) and Norway (16%). But almost a third of the items (30%) was of European provenance, especially from Germany (8%). Five percent originated from more distant sources (e.g. USA, China, Korea, Brazil). Global measures such as an efficient and legally binding plastic treaty with improved upstream measures and waste management are urgently needed, to lower the amount of plastic entering our environments and in turn lifting the pressure on the Arctic region and its sensitive biota.

Land use and COVID-19 lockdowns influence debris composition and abundance in stormwater drains

Stormwater drains act as a pathway for anthropogenic debris from land to sea, particularly in urbanised estuaries where impervious surfaces expedite the process. Debris type and abundance in stormwater drains may vary due to land use and human activity, and knowledge of this variation is necessary to manage the growing threat of debris. Surveys of stormwater debris can inform targeted reduction and remediation efforts by intercepting and identifying pollutants near their source. We surveyed replicate stormwater gross pollutant traps across four land use zones (city centre, shopping centre, transportation hub, industrial precinct) before and during COVID-19 measures to assess the effects of changing human activities. Gross pollutant traps were installed in 120 drains in Greater Melbourne, Australia, and citizen scientists trained by Tangaroa Blue Foundation weighed and classified debris at 6-week intervals between October 2019 and October 2020. Four survey cycles were conducted before lockdowns were implemented, then another four during lockdowns. COVID-19 lockdowns and patterns of debris type and abundance across land use revealed how changes in human activity might impact the flow of debris. Cigarette butts were the most abundant macro debris (>5 mm) item in every survey cycle, regardless of lockdowns. Industrial land use zones had the lowest macro debris counts but contained over 90 % of the micro debris (1–5 mm). The amount of total macro debris decreased during lockdowns, however the most abundant and problematic debris items such as cigarettes and single-use plastics did not decrease as much as might be expected from the concomitant reductions in human activity. Occupational health and safety items, such as masks and gloves, increased (144 %) during COVID-19 lockdowns. Micro debris counts did not change in industrial zones during lockdowns, suggesting that workplace interventions may be necessary to reduce this debris leakage. Tracing the pathway of debris from source to sea can inform reduction and long-term management strategies.

First report of marine debris in Car Nicobar, a remote oceanic Island in the Nicobar archipelago, Bay of Bengal

This study forms the first record to systematically quantify and classify the marine debris from Car Nicobar Island. Car Nicobar is a small remotely located Island in the Nicobar archipelago that is largely inhabited by Nicobarese indigenous people for ages. Considering their remote location and lack of baseline information on marine debris, we surveyed ten beaches in Car Nicobar to study the prevalence of marine debris. A total of 1438 debris items were recorded from the surveys of which plastic debris was found dominant (83.72%). Among the plastics, nets/ropes (38.87%) were found to be dominant followed by plastic bags, plastic bottles, polypropylene woven bags, plastic cans, floaters, and plastic cups. The number of debris was found to be highest in Malacca Jetty (7.2 nos/m2) and least in Mus Jetty (1.28 nos/m2). Land-based debris items from recreational and shoreline activities constituted majorly (54.52%) followed by sea-based sources such as shipping, fishing, and dumping activities (45.48%). Hierarchical Cluster Analysis (HCA) revealed that Malacca Jetty exhibited a distinct pattern of debris accumulation. Kriging interpolation was applied to understand the possible prevalence of marine debris around the coast of Car Nicobar Island. Plastic debris belonging to nearby countries such as Indonesia, Thailand, Malaysia, Myanmar, etc. was also recorded in our surveys. Shipping-based debris could be a probable source of foreign debris due to the proximity of the Nicobar archipelago to the Strait of Malacca, being one of the busiest shipping routes in the world. The baseline information generated from this study could assist the decision-makers to initiate proactive measures toward effective management of marine debris on Car Nicobar Island.

Plastic waste in surface waters of an urban estuary

Context Plastic pollution is a threat to ecosystems and is a global problem. Aims We evaluated the spatio-temporal degradation stage of plastic waste found in surface waters (<1 m) of the Capibaribe River estuary. Methods The analysed waste items were sampled in three distinct areas within the estuary, namely, upper, middle and lower regions. Key results In total, 381 items of debris were classified as macroplastics (≤25 mm), with soft fragments (83.9%) and hard fragments (4.9%) being predominant. Advanced degradation stage occurred throughout the estuary (90.5%). A concentration of 1757 microplastics (<2.2 mm) was found predominant in the upper and middle regions. Soft fragments corresponded to the most abundant type (69%). Conclusion In the middle estuary, a plastic hotspot was observed, caused by the flood tide flow, river flow and the flow of a tributary, forming a convergence cell that helps retain plastic debris for long periods. Implications Identifying the origin, sources and how the hydrodynamic characteristics influence the distribution of plastic debris along the estuary is relevant because it will help decision-makers to develop municipal and state action plans for the recovery of this ecosystem.