Characteristics and Abundance of Microplastics Pollution in Water and Sediment in the Bogowonto River

Plastic debris that breaks down smaller than 5 mm is defined as microplastics and the source of these microplastics can come from daily products used like laundry activities. Bogowonto River is a vital component of the aquatic ecosystem that provides water for domestic, agricultural, and industrial needs. This study aims to determine the abundance and characteristics of microplastics in Bogowonto River. Sampling was conducted in December 2023, totaling 15 water samples and 15 sediment samples with 3 repetitions at 5 stations. Determination of the location point using the purposive sampling method, in which the sampling station was selected by considering anthropogenic activities. Water sampling was carried out using a plankton net and subsequent destruction of organic matter and filtration. A grab sampler (Van Veen, Hydro-Bios, Germany) was used to take sediment samples, which were then separated by density, and filtered. MP abundance in water samples ranged from 126.67±11.55 - 253.33±64.29 MPs/m3 (x̅±SD) and sediment samples ranged from 100.00±45.83 - 236.67±126.62 MPs/kg (x̅±SD). The shape of microplastic fiber is the most dominant in the sample, while the red and blue colors are the most dominant colors and consistently appear in all samples. Testing to determine the type of polymer in the sample using the FTIR-ATR method. Polyamide and polypropylene are the two most dominant types of polymers. Waste discharges from the agricultural, construction, hospital, tourism, market, and residential sectors all contribute to microplastic pollution of the river. The meander pattern of the river between stations 3 and 4 has an impact on the transportation of microplastics, which affects the abundance of microplastics