Uncovering Geospatial Patterns Emphasize the Urgency of Tackling Plastic Pollution at its Source

Urban centers worldwide, especially in rapidly developing nations, grapple with significant challenges in solid waste management (SWM). High waste generation, limited finances, and the influx of plastic material into historically plastic-free waste streams resulted in plastic waste accumulation in the environment (or unsustainable open dumping practices). Environmental challenges extend beyond SWM, impacting human life, infrastructure (e.g., waterway, sewage, stormwater network), and diverse ecosystems (e.g., mudflats, beaches, mangroves) crucial for protecting ecological barriers and preserving marine diversity. The ecological and socio-economic concerns spanning from plastic pollution necessitate a nuanced understanding of its abundance and distribution in urban areas to devise effective and targeted interventions. Investigative efforts on plastic pollution accumulation patterns are mainly conducted in industrialized nations, marine settings, and remote locations, creating a knowledge gap that hinders locally influential strategizing. This study assessed geospatial patterns of prominent plastic accumulation sites in Mumbai, India, considering the interplay of geographical and socioeconomic factors. Sampling methods comprised in-situ observations of 249 plastic accumulation sites across the city from April to May 2022, alongside 241 satellite-based remote observations utilizing spectral properties to analyze a broader range of sites. Sites were geospatially analyzed with urban geographical features. Results showed that more than half the sites fall within 100 meters of a residential or commercial building (283) and informal settlement (434), spanning an area of 335,549 and 493,076 m². Concerning the correlation between the proportion of plastic waste to feature-based land area coverage, we found an accumulation of roughly 2.2 m² and 2.0 m² of plastic waste within 100 meters for every 100 m² of waterway and railway. Although significant, the land area to plastic waste area proportion was less for coastlines (0.1m²), intertidal zones (0.3m²), and coastally-located mangroves (0.2m²), supporting evidence that most plastic accumulates inland and is transported to the ocean via waterways and other mechanisms. Notably, most plastic accumulation sites were closer to waterbodies, green spaces, railways, and buildings, with only a few near roads. Accessing these sites often required a park-and-walk approach. This illustrative study underscores the advantages of identifying specific locations and patterns of plastic pollution accumulation as a crucial first step in achieving integrative material management. The visually compelling narrative equips communities with vital information for targeted strategies, emphasizing early intervention’s significance in curbing environmental impacts and protecting livelihoods. Visual representation fosters transparency, enhancing accountability for policy changes. This study urges a focus on addressing plastic pollution at its source, emphasizing proactive mitigation’s practicality and effectiveness. It underscores the importance of decisive action, advocating for early intervention as a vital strategy against plastic pollution. Mumbai has introduced a range of initiatives to reduce plastic pollution, including implementing legislation to limit the production and usage of single-use plastic products. Like many cities worldwide, it is a reminder of the pressing need to address social inequalities and environmental sustainability in rapidly growing urban areas.