MICRO PLASTIC CONTAMINATION IN COOUM RIVER SEDIMENT: A CASE STUDY FROM CHENNAI, INDIA

Microplastic pollution has emerged as a critical global environmental issue, posing serious threats to ecosystems and human health. This study focuses on investigating the extent of microplastic contamination in the sediment of the Cooum River, an urban river in Chennai, India, heavily impacted by industrial activities, urbanization, and inadequate waste management practices. Understanding the presence and effects of microplastics in the sediment of the Cooum River is crucial for developing effective pollution mitigation and restoration strategies. The study involved collecting sediment samples from ten different locations along the Cooum River. These samples were subjected to rigorous laboratory analysis, employing various methods to assess microplastic abundance, distribution, color, size, shape, and composition in the study area. A total of 2433±101 (mean ± standard error n=10) MPs per kg of dry wtmicroplastic particles were identified in the Cooum River sediment samples. Transparent microplastics were found to be the most prevalent (31%), followed by blue and red microplastics. Additionally, the majority of microplastics were below 1000 µm in size, indicating the dominance of small-sized particles in the sediment. The most common microplastic shapes were fibers, fragments, and films. Using Raman spectroscopy, the study determined the composition of the microplastics, with nylon and polypropylene identified as the dominant polymers present. Other compositions included PMMA (polyMethyl methacrylate), polystyrene, and polyethylene.In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the nature and extent of microplastic pollution in the sediment of the Cooum River. The findings underscore the urgent need for collaborative efforts among policymakers, environmental agencies, and local communities to effectively mitigate microplastic pollution, restore the ecological health of the river, and safeguard the well-being of both the river's ecosystem and human populations.