An investigation conducted by the Federal University of Maranhão (UFMA) revealed the presence of microplastics in fish residing in Jansen Lagoon, located in São Luís. The study identified over 300 fragments in 16 specimens of pirapemas, attributing this problem to inadequate waste management and precarious basic sanitation conditions.
Oceanographer Graziela Santos Leite detailed the risk of bioaccumulation when aquatic organisms consume plastic particles. She explained that this occurs when a fish feeds on a smaller species that may already be contaminated, triggering a chain of bioaccumulation.
The research results underscore the urgency of monitoring the occurrence of these particles in the environment and implementing effective measures to prevent plastics from reaching aquatic ecosystems. According to the study, this contamination has the potential to generate environmental imbalances and increase dangers for local species.
Authorities' Stance
In response, the State Secretariat of Environment and Natural Resources (Sema) announced that it is implementing an action plan in the Jansen Lagoon Ecological Park. This plan includes technical inspections and water quality monitoring, including the verification of microplastics. Furthermore, the department mentioned that there is an ongoing process to improve and integrate solid waste management in the area.
Caema declared that its responsibility discharge system is fully operational and assured that there are no sewage dumping points under its jurisdiction in Jansen Lagoon. Meanwhile, the State Secretariat of Infrastructure (Sinfra) clarified that its intervention in Jansen Lagoon is focused on the operation and maintenance of the lagoon's sluice gate system, which, according to the secretariat, is functioning within the planned schedule.