Microplastics in Namibian river sediments – a first evaluation

Abstract The African continent is rarely the focus of microplastics research, although ubiquity in environment undisputed and still increasing. Due to high production use plastic products partial lack recycling systems many parts continent, it can be assumed that microplastic particles are already present limnic terrestrial ecosystems. Few studies, mainly from South Africa Northern region, show a contamination with microplastics, especially marine environments. This study aims explore presence composition fluvial sediments major catchments Namibia regional on Iishana system Namibia, as one most densely populated areas country. In March 2019 2021, at end rainy seasons, largest river were sampled. Extraction was performed by density separation using Microplastic Sediment Separator (MPSS) solution sodium chloride (density 1.20 g/cm 3 ). particle size determined filtration fractionation, polymer type measurement ATR-FTIR spectroscopy (minimum 0.3 mm). Microplastics found each system, (average 13.2 particles/kg dry weight). perennial, ephemeral rivers, similar concerning size. Polyethylene polypropylene dominant types. Most fractions – 0.5 mm 1.0 mm. fragments films, majority transparent brown.