Analysis of the composition of micro waste from the beaches of the Barra do Una Sustainable Development Reserve (Peruíbe – SP) Mariana Souza, Rita De Cássia, Walter Barrela, Milena Ramires

Abstract

Small solid waste, also known as micro waste, which escapes traditional garbage collection, has been gaining attention due to its importance and negative impact on the environment. The final destination of micro waste can be even more disastrous, since some animals mistake micro plastic materials for food and end up ingesting them. The objective of this study was to evaluate the presence of micro waste on the beaches of the Barra do Una Sustainable Development Reserve (Peruíbe - SP). Collections were carried out on June 16 and 17 at Barra do Una Beach and Caramborê Beach. A total of 107 waste items were identified and grouped into seven different categories. The predominance of items such as micro plastics and the presence of larger waste such as bottle caps, PET bottles, and cups is associated with the presence of tourists and local populations, since these are objects used by them. It was found that of the three stretches of sand studied, the dry sand was the one with the greatest abundance of waste. The study concluded that small-sized solid waste comes from the region itself, that is, from visitors and local residents. Although the environment is an area where activities are mostly carried out in a sustainable manner, the lack of awareness of some can generate serious problems.