"The pervasive nature of microplastic pollution presents a complex legal challenge. While international treaties address marine plastic debris, the enforcement and regulation of microplastics specifically are still developing," Arroyo Vargas observed.

Several beaches are closed to the public across parts of Massachusetts on Wednesday. Here's where they are and why they are closed.

Public access to 'private' beaches on Perdido Key led to lawsuits against Escambia County and others. A new law puts litigation on hold.

Check cameras on Coastal Highway between Dewey and Bethany beaches for flooding concerns. Cameras on and around the Charles W. Cullen Bridge over the Indian River Inlet have beach and bay views. There's also a good view of the Delaware Bay on Prime Hook Road, north of Broadkill Beach.

Less beaches across Massachusetts on Thursday, but the number of beach closures continues to be several dozen. At this point in the week, 50 are closed, most of them due to high levels of bacteria, according to the Massachusetts Department of Public Health ...

Hurricane Erin continues to churn in the Atlantic waters hundreds of miles off the U.S., prompting officials to close beaches along the East Coast from the mid-Atlantic to the Northeast.

Flesh-eating bacteria is spreading to more beaches. The Vibrio vulnificus bacteria is usually found in beaches along the Gulf Coast. But the eastern seaboard is now seeing an uptick in cases. Experts believe climate change is helping the germs spread north.