Modelling microplastic dynamics in estuaries: a comprehensive review, challenges, and recommendations

Abstract

The study of microplastic transport and fate in estuaries poses significant challenges due to the complex, dynamic nature of these ecosystems and the diverse characteristics of microplastics. Process-based numerical models have become indispensable for studying microplastics, complementing observational data by offering insights into transport processes and dispersion trends that are difficult to capture through in situ measurements alone. Effective model implementations require an accurate representation of the hydrodynamic conditions, relevant transport processes, particle properties, and their dynamic behaviour and interactions with other environmental components. In this paper, we provide a comprehensive review of the different process-based modelling approaches used to study the transport of microplastics in estuaries, including Eulerian analytical 2DV models, Eulerian numerical models, Lagrangian numerical models, and population balance equation models. We detail each approach and analyse previous applications, examining key aspects such as parameterizations, input data, model set-ups, and validation methods. We assess the strengths and limitations of each approach and provide recommendations, good practices, and future directions to address challenges, improve the accuracy of predictions, and advance modelling strategies, ultimately benefiting the research field.