Potential Microplastic Pollution In The Water Agency Around The Final Management Place (Case Study Of TPA Calls, Medan)

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Introduction

Microplastic Pollution: A Growing Concern in Modern Era

In recent years, microplastic has become one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time. The widespread use of plastic in daily life has led to an accumulation of unused plastic in landfills, such as the TPA plunged in Medan. Over time, this plastic will degrade into smaller particles, known as microplastic. These tiny particles have a size below 5 mm and have the potential to pollute the surrounding water bodies. This study aims to analyze the shape and type of microplastic polymers and examine the relationship between the existence of TPA plunged and the presence of microplastic around it.

Methodology

Research Design

This study employed a case study approach to investigate the potential microplastic pollution in the water agency around the final management place. The study focused on the TPA plunged in Medan, which is a rich location for accumulation of unused plastic. The research design involved the extraction of microplastic from TPA wastewater and small river water surfaces around the location.

Data Collection

Microplastic was extracted from TPA wastewater and small river water surfaces around the location. Observations were made visually using a microscope, while the analysis of polymer types used Raman spectroscopy. The data collected included the concentration of microplastic particles in the TPA wastewater and small river water surfaces.

Data Analysis

To find out the relationship between the TPA plunged and the presence of microplastic around it, an analysis was carried out using a Pearson correlation with a significance value of 95%. The results were then analyzed to determine the relationship between the existence of TPA plunged and the increase in surrounding microplastic concentration.

Results

Microplastic Concentration

The results showed that the microplastic concentration in the TPA wastewater jumped from 513 to 540 particles/L. Meanwhile, on the surface of the river water, microplastic concentrations ranged from 93 to 178 particles/L before TPA activity and increased to 183 to 290 particles/L after TPA activity.

Microplastic Shapes and Types

The microplastic shapes found varied, including fragments, fiber, balls, pellets, and foam. In addition, the types of microplastic polymers identified included polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polystyrene (PS).

Relationship between TPA Plunged and Microplastic Concentration

Further analysis showed a strong relationship between the existence of the TPA plunged and an increase in the surrounding microplastic concentration. This can be seen from the R correlation value of +0.691 and the P value is 0.003 (p < 0.05). In other words, the more active TPA plunged, the more microplastics detected in the surrounding water body.

Environmental and Health Impact

The Potential for Microplastic Pollution

The potential for microplastic pollution has a serious impact on ecosystems and human health. Microplastic can accumulate in the food chain, affect aquatic organisms, and ultimately have a negative impact on the health of humans who consume fish and seafood.

Urgency to Manage Waste and Increase Public Awareness

This study illustrates the urgency to manage better waste and increase public awareness about the use of plastic. The findings of this study highlight the need for concrete steps to be taken to reduce the negative impact of microplastic pollution on our environment and health.

Follow-up Steps

Improving Recycling Technology

One of the steps that can be taken to reduce microplastic pollution is to improve recycling technology. This can help to reduce the amount of plastic waste that ends up in landfills and oceans.

Education about Reducing Disposable Plastic

Education about reducing the use of disposable plastic is also crucial. This can be achieved through public awareness campaigns and education programs in schools.

Increasing Supervision of Activities in the TPA

Increasing supervision of activities in the TPA is also necessary to prevent the accumulation of plastic waste in the area.

Further Research

Further research is also needed to understand the long-term impact of microplastics in local ecosystems and human health.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study highlights the potential for microplastic pollution in the water agency around the final management place. The findings of this study emphasize the need for concrete steps to be taken to reduce the negative impact of microplastic pollution on our environment and health. By improving recycling technology, educating the public about reducing disposable plastic, and increasing supervision of activities in the TPA, we can work towards reducing the amount of microplastic pollution in our environment.

Introduction

Microplastic pollution has become a growing concern in recent years, and it's essential to understand the facts and myths surrounding this issue. In this article, we'll address some of the most frequently asked questions about microplastic pollution.

Q1: What is microplastic pollution?

A1: Microplastic pollution refers to the presence of small plastic particles, typically less than 5 mm in size, in the environment. These particles can come from various sources, including plastic bags, microbeads in personal care products, and broken-down plastic waste.

Q2: How does microplastic pollution affect the environment?

A2: Microplastic pollution can have severe impacts on the environment, including:

  • Entanglement and suffocation of marine life
  • Ingestion of microplastics by animals, which can lead to physical harm and toxicity
  • Contamination of soil and water sources
  • Contribution to climate change through the production and disposal of plastic

Q3: What are the sources of microplastic pollution?

A3: Sources of microplastic pollution include:

  • Plastic bags and other single-use plastics
  • Microbeads in personal care products
  • Broken-down plastic waste from landfills and oceans
  • Microplastics from clothing and other textiles
  • Industrial processes, such as manufacturing and construction

Q4: How can I reduce my contribution to microplastic pollution?

A4: Reducing your contribution to microplastic pollution can be achieved by:

  • Using reusable bags and containers
  • Choosing products with minimal or biodegradable packaging
  • Avoiding microbeads in personal care products
  • Properly disposing of plastic waste
  • Supporting organizations that work to reduce plastic pollution

Q5: What can governments and industries do to address microplastic pollution?

A5: Governments and industries can address microplastic pollution by:

  • Implementing policies to reduce plastic waste and increase recycling
  • Investing in research and development of biodegradable and recyclable materials
  • Encouraging the use of reusable products and packaging
  • Supporting education and awareness campaigns about microplastic pollution

Q6: How can I get involved in reducing microplastic pollution?

A6: Getting involved in reducing microplastic pollution can be achieved by:

  • Participating in beach cleanups and other community events
  • Supporting organizations that work to reduce plastic pollution
  • Spreading awareness about microplastic pollution through social media and other channels
  • Encouraging friends and family to make changes to reduce their plastic use

Q7: What are the long-term effects of microplastic pollution on human health?

A7: The long-term effects of microplastic pollution on human health are still being researched, but potential risks include:

  • Ingestion of microplastics, which can lead to physical harm and toxicity
  • Exposure to chemicals and pollutants associated with microplastics
  • Contribution to climate change, which can have severe impacts on human health

Q8: How can I protect myself and my family from microplastic pollution?

A8: Protecting yourself and your family from microplastic pollution can be achieved by:

  • Avoiding the consumption of fish and seafood that may contain microplastics
  • Using a water filter to reduce exposure to microplastics in drinking water
  • Avoiding the use of personal care products that contain microbeads
  • Supporting organizations that work to reduce plastic pollution

Conclusion

Microplastic pollution is a complex issue that requires a multifaceted approach to address. By understanding the facts and myths surrounding this issue, we can work together to reduce our contribution to microplastic pollution and protect the environment and human health.