Distribution characteristics of litter and microplastic pollution in Fujiazhuang Beach, Dalian

This study investigated the distribution of litter and microplastics at Fujiazhuang Beach in Dalian, analyzing their density and types. The results show that the average quantity density of litter (size ≥2.5 cm) on Fujiazhuang Beach in Dalian is 485006 items/km², with an average weight density of 754 kg/km², which is at a medium-low level compared to similar international surveys. The main types of beach litter are plastic, accounting for 80.3%. The Clean Coast Index (CCI) of Fujiazhuang Beach is 9.60, indicating a moderate level of cleanliness. The average density of microplastics in Fujiazhuang Beach is 91.06 items/kg (dry weight), which falls within the intermediate to lower range compared to similar surveys conducted worldwide. The microplastics are mainly composed of polypropylene (39.16%), with fibers being the predominant shape (64.34%). The size is mainly concentrated in the range of less than 2 mm (78.86%). As Fujiazhuang Beach is a popular tourist and recreational area, it is speculated that litter from public recreational activities is a significant source of plastic waste on this beach.