Title: Microplastic: A less imperceptible threat on the Peruvian coast

Abstract

The purpose of the study was the identification of the presence of microplastics in the Agua Dulce Beach, city of Lima - Peru, therefore samples of sandy sediments were collected in order to evaluate the concentration of microplastic particles and identify their abundance, typology and possible sources of income. In order to obtain a representative sample, 20 sampling points (supra-coastal and high tide) were determined, from an area of 3.5 ha, in triangular transects. The result was the identification of 43 pieces per m2, it was also observed that the predominance of the type of microplastics found is of secondary origin (polystyrene and polypropylene); however, 20.9% correspond to primary microplastics (pellets). Despite the restrictions by COVID-19 with the closure of beaches to bathers between the period 2020 and 2021, there was an increase of 7.5% of microplastics on the beaches of the Peruvian coast. The identification of microplastics of primary (181 pieces) and secondary (683 pieces) origin in the sampled area confirms that we are facing a scenario with polluting agents that cause negative impacts on the environment and affect marine species by altering the food chain (including human health). The traceability analysis of the plastic found is: (1) Plastic processing plants located on the coast itself; (2) Artisanal fishing (buoys, fishing nets, waterproof suits, among others) where plastic waste is thrown into the sea, it erodes, fragments, and is deposited in the beach area, affecting the marine ecosystem; (3) Bathers, and (4) Drag by marine currents. In Peru, beach cleaning campaigns, as the main measure applied by the Peruvian government, however, preventive policies, regulation, education and the creation of alternative materials must constitute the system that allows reversing the adverse situation.