Holostic microplastics assesment in small urban lake (Velnezers, Latvia)

The data explores the presence, seasonal variations, historical accumulation and deposition rates of microplastics (MPs) in an urban lake within the Baltic region of Northern Europe. The dataset includes detailed information on MP concentrations in surface water, sedimentation rates, and the distribution of MPs within lake sediments.
Key findings from the dataset include: Surface water MP concentrations were highest in summer (5.71 particles/m³) and decreased during winter (0.75 particles/m³), indicating seasonal variations; The MP deposition rate was calculated at 9.47 particles/cm²/year (or 4.31 μg/cm²/year); The sediment core analysis revealed MPs in layers older than 1950, predating the mass production of plastics; The predominant polymer types were polyethylene, polystyrene, and polypropylene, with fibres being more abundant in surface water and fragments in sediment layers.
The data provides a comprehensive snapshot of MPs in an urban lake, from seasonal fluctuations in surface water to long-term deposition patterns in sediment cores. Researchers can use this dataset to explore the dynamics of MP pollution in freshwater ecosystems, the impact of urbanisation on MP concentrations, and the relationship between seasonal variation and MP presence. Additionally, the data can be used to refine monitoring methods for MPs, particularly in urban lakes, where rapid, cost-effective approaches are crucial for ongoing surveillance.
The data was collected using well-established MP research methods:
Manta trawling for surface water sampling to measure MP concentrations, sediment trapping to assess MP sedimentation rates over one year, sediment coring to examine MP distribution in dated sediment archives. MP particles were identified and characterised using Attenuated Total Reflection (ATR) and micro-Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Sediment core chronology was determined using 210Pb dating and the Bayesian Plum model, which revealed sediment layers corresponding to periods before large-scale plastic production.
This dataset is valuable for researchers studying MP pollution in freshwater environments, particularly in urban settings. It can be used to establish baselines for future monitoring efforts and to develop more effective, resource-efficient methods for MP surveillance.