Plastic pollutants have emerged as one of the biggest environmental concerns in recent times. The potential hazards arise from the presence of additives within microplastics (MPs), which can leach into the environment. These additives serve a multitude of purposes, resulting in a diverse range of compounds used in plastic formulation. These elements are commonly integrated into plastic molding processes to enhance usability, optimize material performance, and reduce costs. Throughout the lifespan of plastics, there exists a potential for the release of unpolymerized monomers (sometimes more toxic) and additives that are not chemically bound to polymers; these elements pose risks to the environment and, ultimately, human well-being. Assessing the potential impact of MPs on life requires determining the precise chemical composition and the level of exposure to these additives. Phthalates and chemical flame retardants are currently the focus of extensive examination due to their widespread presence in the environment. Following closely behind are stabilizers and antioxidants, which are also undergoing evaluation. Chemical compounds like hexabromocyclododecanes (HBCDs) and polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) possess characteristics such as persistence, bioaccumulation, and toxicity. The understanding of the ecotoxicological implications of plastic additives and their discharge from primary plastic materials remains limited at present. The current state of issues concerning the regulations and transparency regarding plastic additive chemicals is marked by a significant lack of openness and clarity. It is paramount to thoroughly comprehend and assess the risks that ecosystems face due to the leaching, degradation, bioaccumulation, and eventual fate of additive compounds when plastics are released into the environment.

This study aimed to assess the initial presence of microplastics on two sandy beaches along a rugged coastline in the Northwest Atlantic, an area with limited prior investigation. Sediment samples were collected from High, Mid, and Low intertidal zones at two beaches on the eastern shore of Nova Scotia, Canada. Microplastics were isolated from 100 g sediment samples using density flotation with a sodium iodide solution. Particle characterization included size, shape, and color analysis, with polymer identification performed using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. Results indicated that the predominant microplastics were small (< 1.4 mm) transparent microfibers, primarily composed of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), nylon, or alkyd polymers from paints. Mean concentrations were comparable between the two beaches, averaging 5.08 ± 3.20 and 5.58 ± 4.52 microplastics per 100 g of sediment, respectively. Non-plastic microfibers, including natural and semi-synthetic cellulosic materials, were notably more abundant, with mean concentrations ranging from 75.9 ± 60.1 to 97.7 ± 87.9 per 100 g sediment. Statistical analysis revealed no significant differences in microplastic counts across tidal zones due to high variability over small spatial scales (tens of meters). Sources of microfibers were potentially from high recreational use at these sites. This study highlights the lower-than-expected levels of microplastic pollution compared to earlier research at these sites and global beach studies. Future monitoring efforts could focus on longitudinal studies to track microplastic trends on these exposed sandy beaches.