First evidence of microplastic pollution in the El Quetzalito sand beach of the Guatemalan Caribbean

In Guatemala, assessment of the impacts of microplastic pollution in marine and coastal protected areas has not yet been carried out. Therefore, the main goal of this paper was to evaluate the abundance, composition, physical forms, and the possible sources of plastic debris in the El Quetzalito Beach. The area was intended for biodiversity conservation but has been excessively contaminated by plastic materials from land-based activities. The results state that plastic debris negatively impact the Caribbean coast of Guatemala and are released by storm water and riverine transport from the Motagua River. With a high abundance of 279 items/m2 (30 items/kg d.w.), composed mainly of polystyrene foam beads (66.8%) and polypropylene fragments (25.8%), the microplastic sources are the deterioration of large plastics. As these plastics are commonly used in industrial, commercial, fishing, and household activities, these findings reinforce the need to improve effective sustainable management actions of solid waste treatment and disposal in the Guatemalan cities. •Microplastic pollution on the sand of the El Quetzalito beach was characterized.•Mid-Infrared Spectroscopy technique were applied.•A high concentration of 279 items/m2 (composed mainly by secondary MPs) were found.•Foam was the most abundant form observed (64.5%).•Polystyrene, polypropylene and polyethylene were the main polymers found.