Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The presence of microplastics in aquatic ecosystems has emerged as a significant environmental concern in recent years. This study aimed to assess the extent of microplastic pollution in urban water bodies and investigate its impacts on aquatic ecosystems. The research was conducted through a combination of field surveys, laboratory analyses, and ecological assessments to comprehensively understand the sources, distribution, and effects of microplastics in urban water environments. The introduction section provides a background to the study, highlighting the increasing global concern over microplastic pollution and its potential ecological consequences. The problem statement underscores the urgency of addressing this issue, considering the pervasive nature of microplastics in aquatic systems and their detrimental effects on wildlife and ecosystem health. The objectives of the study were to quantify the abundance and types of microplastics present in urban water bodies, evaluate their impact on aquatic organisms and habitats, and propose mitigation strategies to reduce microplastic pollution. The literature review chapter synthesizes current scientific knowledge on microplastic pollution, discussing the sources, transport mechanisms, and ecological effects of microplastics in aquatic environments. Ten key themes are explored, including the role of microplastics as vectors for contaminants, their interactions with biota, and their persistence in freshwater systems. The research methodology chapter outlines the experimental design and sampling protocols employed in this study. Key components include sample collection methods, microplastic extraction techniques, and ecological assessments to evaluate the health of aquatic ecosystems in relation to microplastic contamination. Data analysis procedures and statistical methods are also described to ensure the robustness of the study findings. The discussion of findings chapter presents the results of the field surveys and laboratory analyses, highlighting the prevalence of microplastics in urban water bodies and their potential impacts on aquatic organisms. The ecological implications of microplastic pollution are discussed in detail, emphasizing the need for proactive management strategies to safeguard the health of aquatic ecosystems. In conclusion, this thesis provides a comprehensive assessment of microplastic pollution in urban water bodies and its impacts on aquatic ecosystems. The study underscores the importance of addressing this environmental issue through targeted interventions, policy measures, and public awareness campaigns. By gaining a deeper understanding of the sources and effects of microplastics, society can work towards preserving the integrity of aquatic ecosystems for future generations.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Assessment of Microplastic Pollution in Urban Water Bodies and Its Impacts on Aquatic Ecosystems" aims to investigate the presence and effects of microplastic pollution in urban water bodies and its consequences on aquatic ecosystems. Microplastics, defined as plastic particles smaller than 5mm, have become a significant environmental concern due to their widespread distribution and persistence in aquatic environments. Urban areas are major sources of microplastic pollution, primarily through the discharge of plastic waste into water bodies. This research seeks to understand the extent of microplastic contamination in urban water bodies and assess its impacts on the health and biodiversity of aquatic ecosystems. The project will begin with a comprehensive literature review to establish the current state of knowledge regarding microplastic pollution and its effects on aquatic ecosystems. This review will cover key topics such as sources of microplastics, transport mechanisms in urban water bodies, accumulation in aquatic organisms, and potential ecological consequences. By synthesizing existing research findings, the study aims to identify gaps in knowledge and areas requiring further investigation. The research methodology will involve field surveys and sampling of urban water bodies to quantify the levels of microplastic contamination. Various analytical techniques, such as microscopy and spectroscopy, will be employed to characterize the size, shape, and composition of microplastic particles found in the sampled water and sediment. Additionally, biological samples from aquatic organisms will be collected and analyzed for the presence of ingested microplastics to assess the potential transfer of these pollutants through the food chain. The findings from the field surveys and laboratory analyses will be presented and discussed in detail in the results and discussion chapters of the thesis. The data obtained will be used to evaluate the spatial distribution of microplastics in urban water bodies, identify hotspots of contamination, and assess the ecological risks posed by these pollutants to aquatic organisms. Furthermore, the study will explore potential mitigation strategies to reduce microplastic pollution in urban water bodies and protect aquatic ecosystems from further harm. In conclusion, the research on the assessment of microplastic pollution in urban water bodies and its impacts on aquatic ecosystems is essential for understanding the magnitude of this environmental issue and developing effective measures to address it. By shedding light on the sources, distribution, and ecological consequences of microplastic pollution, this project aims to contribute valuable insights to the field of environmental science and support efforts towards sustainable management of urban water resources."