Microplastics in lentic environments: implications for Indian ecosystems

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Analytical Chemistry
• Ecotoxicology

Background:

• Microplastic (MP) pollution is a growing concern in lentic environments.
• Understanding MP sources, characteristics, and impacts is crucial for effective management.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the occurrence, characterization, and analytical methods of MP pollution in Indian lentic environments.
• To develop a material flow diagram for MP from plastic waste.
• To analyze factors influencing MP distribution and risk.

Main Methods:

• Material flow analysis using STAN.
• Comparative analysis of MP quantity, morphology, and polymers in water and sediments (2011-2022).
• Assessment of environmental and socioeconomic factors affecting MP concentrations.

Main Results:

• Geographical heterogeneity in MP pollution observed across Indian states.
• Key factors influencing MP concentration identified (e.g., particle density, water body characteristics, wind, flow).
• MPs found to adsorb toxic contaminants, posing risks to ecosystems and human health.

Conclusions:

• MP pollution in Indian lentic systems is influenced by migratory routes, commercial use, and wastewater discharge.
• Microplastic Pollution Index (MPI) and Plastic Pollution Index (PPI) are key indicators for risk analysis.
• Proposed waste control methods and standardized analytical techniques can aid future policy development and research.