A quantitative analysis of microplastic pollution along the south-eastern coastline of South Africa

The extent of microplastic pollution (0.05). These data indicate that the presence of microplastics were not associated with proximity to land-based sources or population density, but rather is governed by water circulation. •No significant difference in microplastic contamination between sites.•More than 90% of samples comprised of blue/black fibres.•No primary microplastics were found in the present study.•Beach densities ranged from 688.9±348.2 to 3308±1449particles·m−2.•Water column densities were between 257.9±53.36 to 1215±276.7particles·m−3.