Determinación y caracterización de macroplásticos en arenas de la playa de Jambelí, provincia de El Oro

Abstract

Plastic pollution in marine-coastal ecosystems is a growing global issue, with macroplastics being one of the most significant, affecting oceans, seas, coastlines, and archipelagos worldwide. The objective of this research is to determine and characterize the presence of macroplastics (MaP) in the sand of Jambeli beach, located in the province of El Oro, Ecuador. Six bimonthly sampling campaigns were conducted during February, March, and April across three coastal zones (infralittoral, mesolittoral, and supralittoral), resulting in the collection of 180 samples. A total of 179 macroplastic items were identified and classified by size, weight, color, and polymer type. The results showed high spatial heterogeneity, with the most accumulation found in the infralittoral zone. The polymers found most were PP, LDPE, HDPE, and PET, with predominant colors including white, multicolored, and transparent, associated with single-use products. No clear seasonal trend in accumulation was seen, although certain peaks were linked to local factors such as wave activity or nearby discharges. In conclusion, macroplastic accumulation in Jambelí appears to be linked to human activities, particularly tourism and potentially inadequate waste management.