TERENOWE METODY BADANIA ZANIECZYSZCZENIA RZEK MAKROPLASTIKIEM
FIELD METHODS FOR STUDYING MACROPLASTIC POLLUTION IN RIVERS

Summary/Abstract: The pollution of rivers with macroplastics (plastic particles > 5 mm) is a recent envi- ronmental issue that emerged in the mid-20th century. The input of macroplastics into river ecosystems poses a threat to living organisms and diminishes the aesthetic appeal of riparian landscapes. Moreover, microplastic particles generated during the fragmentation of macroplastics in rivers can migrate into other environments, reducing the possibility of their removal from the environment and adversely affecting subsequent organisms and human health. The first step enabling the assessment and mitigation of the aforementioned risks is the collection of direct field data on the quantity of macroplastics polluting the river system. While methodo- logical frameworks for conducting such studies have been developed and described in foreign literature for several years, they have not yet been discussed in Polish literature. This article presents the methodology employed for field research on the input, transport, deposition, and remobilization of macroplastics in fluvial environments. Furthermore, it explores how the acquired information can be applied in practical efforts aimed at reducing river pollution by macroplastics.

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