Scientists found microplastics in the sediments of Kedron Brook, Enoggera, and Bulimba creeks in Brisbane, a city located in Australia's southeastern Queensland region. These creeks flow into Moreton Bay, which is known to have high levels of microplastics. The research found around 4400 plastic particles in each kilogram of sediment collected from these creeks.
researchers dredged sludge from Kedron Brook, Enoggera and Bulimba creeks four times over a year in 2024, with roughly 4400 plastic particles found in one kilogram of Kedron Brook’s sediment.
Approximately 4100 particles were found in the same amount of Bulimba Creek’s mud, while Enoggera was the cleanest of the three, with 2800 pieces of plastic per kilogram. Microplastics are ubiquitous and can be found in water, earth and in the air.
As a result, the broken down plastics have been discovered in every human tissue type, and while the health threats are not fully understood, it hasPhD candidate Heshani Mudalige said the amount of plastics found in the three Brisbane creeks depended on the gradient, the seasons, and where the creek flowed.
“Kedron Brook’s microplastic load is strongly influenced by its running through commercial and industrial areas, including the Brisbane Airport precinct,” she said, noting that the creek’s highest load was in March following heavy summer rains. Mudalige said impervious areas in the Kedron catchment likely brought more microplastics into the creek. Advertisement Mudalige said 2021 research on the Brisbane River had found about 500 items of plastic per kilo of sediment.
Associate Professor Prasanna Egodawatta said the study would fuel future research into how microplastics moved through Brisbane’s urban water systems.
“This study is a first step towards quantifying land-based microplastic inputs to Moreton Bay via the stormwater pathway,” Egodawatta said. While the three creeks do not flow into water treatment plants that could lead to human consumption, Mudalige said the plastics could still pose a danger if they reached the sea. Mudalige is also working on tracking the amount of PFAS “forever chemicals” and heavy metals in the three creeks, with papers to be published in the near future.
Start the day with a summary of the day’s most important and interesting stories, analysis and insights.
Microplastics Brisbane Creeks Sediments Moreton Bay Climate Change
United States Latest News, United States Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Brisbane’s Defensive Woes: AFL Experts Sound Alarms As Premiership Expectations FadeHistorical data indicates that Brisbane’s Premiership credentials are under threat after a heavy defeat at the hands of Geelong, with their defensive form now under scrutiny. Chris Fagan’s defensive problems are growing noisier, and dual North Melbourne premiership player David King highlights the signs that this was going wrong way back at Round 6.
Read more »
Brisbane’s wet weather to clear for cold nights mid-weekThe weather bureau warned clearing skies from the middle of the week could bring nighttime temperature below 10 degrees.
Read more »
Mills on Brisbane's radar for NBL returnThe New Zealand Breakers have continued their hot off-season, signing reigning NBL champion Kouat Noi to build a roster capable of contending in the 2026-27 season.
Read more »
Brisbane startup unveils a soda base spiked with syrups, cream and fresh fruitsA 23-year-old Brisbane entrepreneur has opened a liquor store selling a unique soda alternative called 'dirty soda', which is drawn from Utah's Mormon community in the US. The soda base combines traditional soda with syrups, cream, fresh fruit, and puree to create a customizable drink.
Read more »