La Pineda: the epicenter of plastic pollution
A recent study by Rovira i Virgili University (URV) has shown that La Pineda beach is the most affected by microplastic pollution in Catalonia, with an alarming density of 2,000 microplastics per kilogram of sand. This figure doubles that of the following most polluted points, such as the beach of the Fangar Bay, which records more than 1,100 units.
Disturbing data on pollution
The study, led by the URV Tecnatox Research Group, analyzed a total of 580 kilometers of coast, revealing that the concentration of microplastics is significantly lower than the Barcelona coast, which surprised the researchers.
Sources of pollution
In La Pineda, researchers have identified a significant accumulation of plastic pellets, which are mainly from the petrochemical industry. However, most of the pollution (more than 60%) comes from textile fibers, especially polyester, which are not retained by washing machine filters and end up in the sea through wastewater.
Impact on the Fangar Bay and other beaches
The Fangar Bay, located at the mouth of the Ebro river, also has a high concentration of microplastics, with more than 1,100 units per kilogram. Other beaches, such as those of the Miracle and Arrabassada, in Tarragona, show worrying levels, exceeding 600 microplastics per kilogram.
Surprises on the Barcelona coast
The results obtained on the beaches of Barcelona have been unexpected. Despite being the most densely populated city in Catalonia, its beaches have less microplastics than other areas of the south. This discovery has generated interest and has opened new lines of research.
Innovative Methodology in Research
The study has applied a new methodology for the detection of microplastics by fluorescence, which allows to identify plastic fragments faster. This technique has proven to be an efficient tool for the initial analysis of pollution.
Reflections on plastic pollution
The research highlights the urgent need to properly manage waste and to take action to reduce the use of plastics in our daily lives. Researchers warn that plastics are ubiquitous pollutants, which affect not only marine ecosystems, but also human health.
