Research

Earth, Atmosphere & Environment Sciences

Title :

Microplastic pollution in freshwater ecosystems: Identifying the sources, Effects, and solutions

Area of research :

Earth, Atmosphere & Environment Sciences

Principal Investigator :

Dr. Balram Ambade, National Institute Of Technology (NIT) Jamshedpur, Jharkhand

Timeline Start Year :

2024

Timeline End Year :

2027

Contact info :

Equipments :

Details

Executive Summary :

The Microplastic in Freshwater Ecosystem project aims to investigate the sources, distribution, and impact of microplastics on freshwater ecosystems. It will analyze the extent of microplastic pollution and its effects on aquatic organisms, including their physiology, growth, reproduction, and survival. The project aims to identify potential solutions to reduce microplastics entering freshwater ecosystems and develop management strategies to mitigate their effects. It will raise public awareness about the issue and advocate for policies promoting responsible use and disposal of plastic products. The expected outputs include a better understanding of microplastic pollution, identification of its effects on freshwater organisms, development of management strategies, policy recommendations for sustainable use of plastic products, and improved public awareness and education. This research will contribute to informed decision-making, sustainable development, and protection of freshwater ecosystems. The production and use of plastics are expected to increase, making it crucial to understand the potential risks of microplastics in the environment. Microplastic research can provide valuable data and information to inform policies and regulations to reduce plastic pollution and protect the environment. It can also reveal new insights into ecosystem functioning and interactions between the environment and living organisms. The scientific objectives of the project include identifying sources and pathways of microplastic pollution, understanding the physical and chemical properties of microplastics, evaluating their ecological and biological impacts on aquatic ecosystems, developing methods for detecting, monitoring, and quantifying pollution, and establishing policies and regulations to mitigate microplastics' impacts on the environment and human health.

Total Budget (INR):

43,56,244

Organizations involved