Numerical Study of the Riverine Microplastic Distribution in the Arctic Ocean

Abstract

Marine plastic pollution is currently one of the most serious environmental threats. In this study, based on scenario calculations for a five-year period, we analyzed the possible spread of microplastics carried by Siberian rivers to the Kara Sea shelf. The Lagrangian particle model used daily data from 3D numerical modeling to simulate microplastic transport by ocean currents and sea ice drift. The results of a series of scenario calculations show how the distribution of particles and their subsequent deposition depend on their type (density), size, processes of freezing into the ice, and biofouling (accumulation of microorganisms). The crucial influence of the effects of microplastic embedding in sea ice and particle biofouling on the trajectories of floating particles and their deposition on the seafloor is highlighted. The transport of light particles of microplastics from Siberian rivers by ice can contribute to the pollution of the Barents Sea, in addition to their more active outflow through the Fram Strait. Biofouling is a driver of microplastic deposition on the shelf bottom or transport along the continental slope in a cyclonic direction following the trajectory of the Atlantic waters.