Amazon River Faces Plastic Pollution and Health Risks

Image: Ivars Utināns via Unsplash

For the first time, researchers have conducted a comprehensive study of the Amazon Basin and found that plastic pollution is widespread across the region, affecting its waters, vegetation, and wildlife, reported Phys.org.

Previous research suggested that the Amazon River is a major contributor to oceanic plastic pollution, but until now, there had been no thorough assessment of the entire basin. A new study published in Ambio addresses this gap by reviewing 52 peer-reviewed papers published since 2000 that examined plastic contamination in the Amazon’s fauna, fish, sediments, and waters. The analysis found that more than 90% of the studies focused on Brazil’s section of the main river channel. Most reported microplastic fragments smaller than five millimeters, while none investigated nanoplastics — particles thought to pose even greater environmental and biological risks.

The findings are cause for concern. Plastic pollution is not limited to isolated areas but is pervasive throughout the Amazon Basin. Researchers found plastic debris and fragments in river waters and sediments, as well as in the region’s plants and various animal species –including fish, birds, and mammals.

The most concerning aspect relates to human health. The review found that roughly two-thirds (66%) of the animal species contaminated with plastic — mainly fish — are regularly consumed by local communities. This widespread contamination raises serious concerns that people in the region may be ingesting plastic particles, especially microscopic fragments, through their diet.

While there is still no conclusive evidence of direct health impacts from high levels of microplastics in humans, the potential risks are troubling. Drinking water is another significant source of exposure, as many Amazonian communities rely on river water that is often contaminated and undergoes little or no treatment before consumption.