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Microplastics in Surface Waters and Sediments in the Sebou Estuary and Atlantic Coast, Morocco

Abstract Microplastics (MPs) are emerging contaminants and present risks to human and environmental health. Microplastic levels were examined in sediment and surface water samples at stations along the Sebou Estuary and Atlantic Coast of Morocco. The microplastic abundance, distribution, and characteristics were characterized. The microplastics were separated into fragments, fibers, films, and granules. The results at all stations showed that the microplastic abundance in water samples ranged from 10 to 168 particles/m³, whereas in the sediment samples, the levels were from 10 to 300 particles/kg. Stations adjacent to Kenitra City showed significantly high levels of microplastics (p < 0.001) compared with the Atlantic Coast, likely due to population density and human activity. The majority of the detected microplastics was from 0.1 to 0.5 mm, followed by 0.5 to 1 mm. The predominant shape in water and sediments were fragments. The results for the type, size, and color of the microplastics suggest the Sebou Estuary is a hotspot on the Atlantic Coast. The results of this study may contribute to increased awareness and better implementation of solid waste management plans, especially at Kenitra City, to protect the biologically diverse ecosystem of the Moroccan Estuary and Atlantic Coast.