Microplastic Pollution in High Population Density Zones of Selected Rivers from Southeast Asia

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Marine Biology
• Ecotoxicology

Background:

• Southeast Asia (SEA) grapples with environmental issues linked to population and economic growth.
• Rivers in SEA are significant pathways for plastic debris entering marine ecosystems.
• Limited data exists on microplastic contamination in SEA's aquatic environments.

Purpose of the Study:

• To compare microplastic levels in water and sediment from three major SEA rivers.
• To identify rivers with the highest microplastic contamination.
• To inform strategies for mitigating plastic pollution in vital waterways.

Main Methods:

• Sediment and water samples were collected from urban areas of the Chao Phraya, Saigon, and Citarum rivers.
• Microplastic concentrations were quantified in items per cubic meter for water and items per kilogram for sediment.
• Variations in microplastic levels were analyzed in relation to environmental factors.

Main Results:

• Microplastics were detected in all three studied rivers.
• Chao Phraya River water exhibited the highest concentration (80 ± 60 items/m³).
• Saigon River sediment showed the highest concentration (9167 ± 4559 items/kg).

Conclusions:

• Significant microplastic pollution exists in major SEA rivers, impacting water resources.
• Environmental factors and plastic degradation influence microplastic distribution.
• Implementing land-use regulations and public awareness campaigns is essential for pollution control.