Geomorphologically controlled macroplastic hotspots across fluvial landforms in an urban forest park

Summary

This field survey examined how small-scale fluvial geomorphology regulates macroplastic retention in ephemeral streams within an urban forest park in Tehran, Iran. Investigators surveyed 38 one-square-metre plots across four landform types and found spatial variability in macroplastic accumulation, with depositional surfaces exhibiting the highest abundance, though differences among landforms were not statistically significant. The findings suggest that geomorphic context influences plastic redistribution in urban green spaces and can inform targeted monitoring and remediation strategies.

Regional applicability

This study was conducted in Iran and addresses urban plastic pollution in ephemeral streams, a phenomenon relevant to temperate and arid urban forest parks globally. UK peri-urban green spaces with similar recreational pressures and ephemeral drainage systems could benefit from comparable geomorphologically-informed monitoring approaches, though specific landform dynamics and plastic source composition may differ.

Key measures

Macroplastic abundance (items m⁻²), mass (g m⁻²), category composition (plastic bags, cups, bottles, food wrappers, foam, caps) across cut banks, depositional surfaces, point bars, and incised channels

Outcomes reported

The study measured macroplastic (>5 mm) abundance, mass, and category composition across four fluvial landforms in ephemeral streams. Depositional surfaces showed highest mean macroplastic abundance (12.8 ± 8.7 items m⁻²) whilst incised channels showed lowest (6.6 ± 4 items m⁻²), though differences were not statistically significant.

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