Pântano do Sul Beach, located in Florianópolis, has been identified as the most contaminated by microplastics in Brazil. These tiny plastic particles, less than 5 millimeters in size, are often ingested by marine animals, causing significant environmental damage. The information was released by the NGO Sea Shepherd Brazil in partnership with the Oceanographic Institute of the University of São Paulo (USP).

Pântano do Sul, in Florianópolis — Photo: Clarìssa Batìstela/g1

In addition to leading in microplastic accumulation, the beach also tops the list for macro-waste and large plastic debris. Despite this concerning scenario, the beach is still considered safe for swimming, according to the most recent reports from the Environmental Institute (IMA), conducted between April and May of this year.

Another key finding is Rizzo Beach, located in the continental region of Florianópolis, which ranks third in the list of beaches most polluted by microplastics. As a result, Florianópolis stands out as the third Brazilian city with the highest concentration of microplastics per square meter.

The data comes from a 16-month expedition, covering over 7,000 kilometers and investigating 306 beaches in 201 municipalities. The report highlights that oceanic plastic pollution is considered by the UN as one of the most severe global environmental issues.

The study shows that 100% of the beaches analyzed in Brazil contain plastic waste, with 97% showing traces of microplastics. Among the most commonly found items are disposable plastics, such as bottle caps, representing 61% of the waste. Cigarette butts were also found in large quantities.

These pollutants easily enter the marine food chain, being ingested by ocean-feeding animals. In 2023, research conducted by the Federal Institute of Santa Catarina (IFSC) had already detected microplastics and glitter in oysters and mussels, which are widely farmed in the state, the largest producer of mussels in Brazil.

When asked about actions to mitigate the impact of this waste, the city of Florianópolis stated that the microplastics found “are not necessarily the result of local pollution, but are transported by ocean currents from other regions.”4o

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