Long-term monitoring (2022–2024) of solid waste pollution in inland water ecosystems of Türkiye: Spatial and temporal dynamics

This study provides a comprehensive assessment of solid waste pollution in Türkiye’s inland water ecosystems, focusing on the Borçka, Muratlı, and Torul reservoirs, along with Uzungöl Lake, over a three-year period (2022–2024). By employing systematic seasonal sampling, geospatial analysis, and statistical evaluation, the research highlights the spatial and temporal dynamics of solid waste accumulation across these diverse aquatic systems. During the sampling period, a total of 52,666 solid waste items were collected and analyzed from Borçka Dam Lake (29,701 items), Muratlı Dam Lake (6,917 items), Torul Dam Lake (11,635 items), and Uzungöl (4,413 items), revealing significant variations in litter abundance among the lakes, seasons, and years, with Borçka Reservoir having the highest waste density and Uzungöl the lowest. Plastic waste emerged as the dominant category, accounting for over 60% of the total waste in all study sites, followed by metals, glass/ceramics, and paper/cardboard. Statistical analyses, including ANOVA, NMDS, and SIMPER, revealed distinct waste compositions across the lakes and seasons, emphasizing the need for targeted mitigation strategies. This research bridges a significant knowledge gap by focusing on long-term pollution dynamics in Türkiye’s inland waters, providing actionable insights for waste management and environmental conservation. Based on the findings of the study, it is recommended to implement effective waste management systems, introduce stricter regulations, and raise public awareness through targeted campaigns.