Retention Ponds, Wetlands Can Decrease Particle Pollution in Aquatic Environment by 75% [Study]

Particle pollution such as those coming from vehicle tires contributes to the contamination of the environment and ecosystems, mainly through the accumulation of microplastics and chemicals used during manufacturing. While efforts have been conceptualized and made to decrease this type of pollution, scientists recently found that retention ponds and wetlands can fight particle pollution.

A new study revealed that these inland bodies of water built as part of major road projects can reduce the amount of tire particles entering the aquatic environment significantly. Led by researchers from the United Kingdom, the study focuses on tire wear particles as contributors to environmental microplastic accumulation and particulate pollution.

Tire Wear Particle Pollution

Retention ponds and wetlands in highway road networks can lessen tire wear particle pollution in aquatic environment by an average of 75%. These findings are based on samples collected in the UK's South West England and the Midlands, as part of a research paper published in the journal Environmental Science and Pollution Research on March 7.

The study examined road drainages, which are critical pathways for tire wear particles to aquatic environments, of the UK Strategic Road Network. Using this site, scientists involved in the paper collected samples from the influent, effluent, and sediments of several retention ponds and wetlands. Results showed the generation of these particles is based on vehicle speed and direction.

The March 2024 paper led by scientists from the University of Plymouth and Newcastle University confirmed the findings of a previous research; that substantial quantities of tire particles are contaminating rivers and oceans. The previous study suggested that particles emitted from vehicle tires could be an unrecorded significant source of microplastics entering the marine environment.

What are Retention Ponds?

A retention pond, mainly called a retention basin, is an artificial pond used to hold and distribute runoff from rain, potentially preventing flooding. A typical wet detention basin is built with vegetation around it, and most of all, near a road or a highway. Retention ponds can offer stormwater attenuation and treatment, as well as supporting aquatic vegetation.

While these man-made bodies of water can prevent flooding, it is not an assurance that raging floodwaters will not occur, especially during heavy rain. Retention basins, which are also referred to as stormwater management ponds, are still vulnerable to a phenomenon called stormwater inundation.

This event can lead to the flooding of roads and property if these structures are overwhelmed, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). In previous years, significant coastal flooding and urban flooding have been reported in different cities across the United States, proving that stormwater and other related infrastructure can also overflow.

Aside from particle pollution, future flooding posed by sea level rise also threatens stormwater management systems and inland bodies of water. The flooding risk is greater in communities along the shores that are susceptible to coastal flooding.