Thesis Abstract

Abstract
Microplastic pollution has emerged as a significant environmental concern, particularly in coastal ecosystems where it poses a threat to marine life and ecosystem health. This thesis presents a comprehensive assessment of microplastic pollution in coastal ecosystems, focusing on its impacts and proposing mitigation strategies. The study begins with an overview of the background and problem statement, highlighting the increasing prevalence of microplastics and the urgent need for action. The objectives of the study are outlined, aiming to analyze the sources and distribution of microplastics, assess their ecological impacts, and explore effective mitigation approaches. A thorough literature review is conducted to provide a solid foundation for the research, covering key concepts related to microplastic pollution, its effects on marine organisms, and existing mitigation strategies. The research methodology section details the approach taken to collect and analyze samples from various coastal sites, including sampling techniques, laboratory methods, and data analysis procedures. The findings of the study are then presented and discussed in detail, shedding light on the extent of microplastic pollution, its ecological consequences, and the effectiveness of different mitigation measures. The discussion delves into the complexities of microplastic pollution in coastal ecosystems, considering factors such as plastic types, sizes, and degradation processes. The implications of the findings are explored, emphasizing the need for coordinated efforts at local, national, and global levels to address this pressing environmental issue. Finally, the conclusion summarizes the key findings of the study and offers recommendations for future research and policy interventions. Overall, this thesis provides valuable insights into the assessment of microplastic pollution in coastal ecosystems and offers a roadmap for effective mitigation strategies to safeguard marine environments and biodiversity.

Thesis Overview

The research project titled "Assessment of microplastic pollution in coastal ecosystems: Impacts and mitigation strategies" aims to investigate the presence, sources, impacts, and potential mitigation strategies of microplastic pollution in coastal ecosystems. Microplastics are small plastic particles, less than 5mm in size, that have become a significant environmental concern due to their widespread presence in marine environments and potential adverse effects on marine life, ecosystems, and human health. Coastal ecosystems are particularly vulnerable to microplastic pollution due to their proximity to human activities and sources of plastic waste. The research will begin with a comprehensive literature review to establish the current understanding of microplastic pollution in coastal ecosystems, including sources, distribution, transport mechanisms, and known impacts on marine organisms and ecosystems. This review will provide a foundation for the subsequent empirical investigation. The empirical study will involve field sampling and laboratory analysis to quantify the abundance and distribution of microplastics in different coastal habitats, such as beaches, estuaries, and nearshore waters. Various sampling techniques will be employed to capture a representative range of microplastic sizes and types present in the environment. Furthermore, the research will assess the potential impacts of microplastic pollution on coastal ecosystems, focusing on both ecological and human health aspects. This analysis will involve studying the interactions between microplastics and marine organisms, as well as the potential transfer of microplastics through the food web and their implications for ecosystem health. In addition to assessing the impacts of microplastic pollution, the research will also explore potential mitigation strategies to reduce the input of microplastics into coastal ecosystems. This may include investigating the effectiveness of existing waste management practices, exploring innovative technologies for microplastic removal, and evaluating policy interventions to regulate plastic production, use, and disposal. Overall, this research project seeks to contribute to the understanding of microplastic pollution in coastal ecosystems and provide valuable insights into the potential environmental and health risks associated with this form of pollution. By identifying effective mitigation strategies, the study aims to inform policymakers, stakeholders, and the public on actions that can be taken to address the growing threat of microplastic pollution and protect the health and integrity of coastal ecosystems for future generations.