A coupled Lagrangian-Eulerian model for microplastics as vectors of contaminants applied to the Mediterranean Sea

Abstract The pervasiveness of microplastics in global oceans is raising concern about their impacts on organisms. While quantifying toxicity still an open issue, sampling evidence has shown that rarely are marine found clean; rather, they often contaminated by other types chemical pollutants, some known to be harmful biota and humans. To provide a first tool for assessing the role as vectors plastic-related organic pollutants (PROPs), we developed data-informed simulation model accounts intertwined dynamics Lagrangian microplastic particles transported surface currents Eulerian advection-diffusion partition them through seawater-particle interaction. Focusing Mediterranean Sea using simple, yet realistic forcings input PROPs, our simulations highlight can mediate export PROPs across different regions. Particle origin, terms both source type (either coastal, riverine, or fishing-derived) geographical location, plays major determining amount conveyed during journey at sea. We argue quantitative numerical modelling approaches focal shed light vast spatiotemporal scales microplastics-PROPs interaction, complementary much-needed field investigation.