Research

Microplastic Contamination in Urban Freshwater Systems: Assessing Risks and Remediation Strategies

Microplastic pollution has emerged as one of the most pressing concerns in freshwater management, with urban waterways bearing the heaviest contamination loads. This study investigates the distribution, concentration, and composition of microplastics across rivers, reservoirs, and groundwater sources in metropolitan areas. By employing advanced spectroscopic techniques and environmental sampling protocols, the research aims to map contamination hotspots and identify the primary sources — ranging from synthetic textile fibers to degraded packaging materials.

The findings of this research will serve as a critical foundation for developing targeted remediation frameworks and policy interventions. Laboratory-scale filtration and bioremediation experiments will be conducted to evaluate the effectiveness of emerging removal technologies. Ultimately, this study seeks to provide water utility managers and environmental regulators with actionable data to safeguard drinking water quality and protect aquatic biodiversity from the long-term effects of microplastic accumulation.