Assessing microplastic pollution along the Caribbean coast of La Guajira, Colombia

Microplastic pollution has become a global environmental issue, severely impacting marine ecosystems. In Colombia, understanding of marine microplastic pollution remains limited, necessitating targeted efforts for prevention and conservation. This study presents the first assessment of microplastics along 125 km of the Caribbean coast of La Guajira region in Colombia. Sediment samples from seven beaches (Palomino, Dibulla, Camarones, Riohacha, Valle de los Cangrejos, Mayapo, and Jimatsu) were analyzed for microplastic during two sampling periods, encompassing color, morphology, and polymer composition determined by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Microplastics were found at Dibulla, Camarones, Riohacha, and Mayapo beaches during the two sampling periods (2.4 ± 0.6 to 12 ± 2 particles/m2 in one period, and 3.2 ± 0.8 to 22 ± 7 particles/m2 in the other). Filaments from fishing activities predominated, with microplastics mostly light-colored and composed of polypropylene, polyethylene, and polystyrene. While microplastic concentrations varied among beach use, differences between the two sampling periods were not statistically significant. •First microplastics assessment along the Caribbean coast of La Guajira, Colombia.•Sediment samples from seven beaches analyzed during two sampling periods.•Microplastic concentrations reached up to 22 ± 7 particles/m2.•Identification of predominant microplastic filaments related to fishing activities.•Variation in microplastic concentrations by beach use.