Citizen science as a tool for monitoring microplastics: The case study of Elba Island

Abstract

Globally, different numbers have been published on the occurrence, concentration and distribution of microplastics (MPs). To better predict and understand the MP pollution problem, more data is needed. Citizen Science (CS) has emerged as an efficient tool for data collection, increasing research capacity, while also raising awareness, and providing social and environmental benefits. Sampling was carried out by citizen scientists participating in a one-week workshop organized by the Sail & Explore Association (SEA) on Elba Island in June 2024. This event aimed to map, for the first time, the occurrence and distribution patterns of MPs ranging from 0.3 to 5 mm on and around the island. Volunteers and researchers collected surface water samples using a manta trawl, and beach sediment samples following standardized scientific protocols across six beaches and ten sea surface transects. The study yielded a comprehensive dataset of 1907 MP particles (645 beached MPs and 1262 floating MPs). Fragments were the predominant type, representing 72.9 % of all samples. Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) was used to analyze approximately 10 % of the collected data, revealing that polyethylene (PE) was the principal polymer (55.3 % of beach samples and 62.9 % of sea surface samples). The dominant color of all plastic collected was white (311 particles for beach samples and 650 particles for sea samples). This study provides crucial baseline data for the Tuscan Archipelago and highlights the importance of CS in collecting extensive environmental data, providing a foundation for future research and policymaking to address plastic pollution in the region.