Microplastics in Indonesian Freshwater Ecosystems: Domestic and Industrial Sources, Ecological Impacts, and Education-Based Mitigation

Microplastic pollution in freshwater ecosystems has become an environmental issue that is receiving increasing attention due to its impacts on ecosystem sustainability and human health. This study aims to examine the sources and pathways of microplastics entering Indonesian freshwater ecosystems, the mechanisms of bioaccumulation and their ecological impacts on aquatic organisms, and to formulate mitigation strategies integrated with environmental education based on Project-Based Learning. The research method employed was a systematic literature review of scientific articles published between 2021 and 2025 that are relevant to microplastics, freshwater ecosystems, and environmental education. The results indicate that microplastics are widely distributed in Indonesian freshwater bodies, with primary sources originating from domestic and industrial waste. The dominant polymer types are polyethylene, polypropylene, and polyester, predominantly in the form of small-sized fragments and fibers. Microplastics accumulate in various aquatic organisms, including freshwater fish consumed by humans, and cause physiological and ecological impacts that potentially disrupt ecosystem stability. Furthermore, the integration of microplastic issues into project-based environmental education has been shown to enhance students’ scientific literacy and environmental awareness. This study emphasizes that microplastic pollution requires comprehensive management through integrated policy, technological, and sustainable educational approaches.