Spatio-temporal distribution of microplastic pollution in surface sediments along the coastal areas of Istanbul, Turkey.

Microplastics (MPs) have become prevalent in various environmental compartments, including air, water, and soil, attracting attention as significant pollutant parameters. This study investigated the prevalence of MP pollution in surface sediments along Istanbul's Marmara Sea, encompassing the megacity and the Bosphorus. A comprehensive sampling approach was employed, covering 43 stations across four seasons and depths ranging from 5 to 70 m.