Plastic pollution affects ecosystems worldwide, with microplastics (MPs) being a major concern. This study evaluates MP abundance in soils impacted by human activities in different areas in Istanbul. Results indicate recreational areas have the highest MP content, while residential areas have the lowest. Industrial areas have intermediate levels. Particle shapes vary by category, with fibers most prevalent in recreational areas. FT-IR spectrometry analysis identified the types of MPs present, with the recreational areas containing polymers undergoing hydrolysis. The industrial zone's MP contamination was recent and relatively clean, while the PE plastic in Dilovası showed little weathering.

Key words microplastic, land use, soil, humanimpact, residential, industrial, recreational