Modelling the Marine Microplastic Distribution from Municipal Wastewater in Saronikos Gulf (E. Mediterranean)

Abstract

A three-dimensional hydrodynamic model is coupled with a Lagrangian-Individual Based Model to simulate the floating microplastics (<300μm) dispersal and transport in the Saronikos Gulf. Considering municipal wastewaters as their main source, simulations were carried out over 2011–2012. A comparison with hydrodynamic observational data has shown that the model qualitatively reproduces the main circulation structure and hydrodynamic features. To explore the fate and distribution of microplastics, model results were analyzed taking into account the seasonal variability of near-surface circulation. Simulation results gave a qualitative description of affected areas from microplastics pollution, suggesting that the most affected part of Saronikos Gulf is the coastal area that extends from Psitallia Waste water treatment plant to the east. Despite some limitations, this is a first model attempt to explore the dispersal and distribution of microplastics in the Saronikos Gulf.