Corrigendum to ‘Microplastic and heavy metal contamination in sediments of the high-altitude Nundkol Lake of northwestern Himalayas-Kashmir’ [Environmental Pollution and Management 1 (2024) 167-178]

Microplastic and heavy metal contamination in sediments of the high-altitude Nundkol Lake of northwestern Himalayas-Kashmir

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Researchers found both heavy metals and microplastics in the sediment of a remote high-altitude glacial lake in the Himalayas, with microplastic levels averaging 76 particles per kilogram of dry sediment — predominantly plastic fibers from nylon. The contamination is likely linked to tourism, trekking, and fishing activities in what was once considered a pristine wilderness area.

Microplastic Pollution in Wular Lake, Kashmir-India (Ramsar Site): First Report and Associated Risk Assessments

Exploratory Study of Microplastics in the Eastern Himalayas of Nepal

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Researchers found preliminary evidence of microplastics smaller than 250 micrometers in surface water samples from a remote river in Sagarmatha National Park, Nepal, suggesting that plastic pollution has reached even the high-altitude Himalayan wilderness and that more detailed studies are needed to establish baseline contamination levels.

Co-occurrence of microplastics and heavy metals in a freshwater lake system in Indian Himalaya: Distribution and influencing factors

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Researchers found widespread microplastic contamination in both the water and sediments of Manasbal Lake in the Indian Himalayas, with concentrations up to 4,020 particles per kilogram of sediment. Domestic sewage was identified as the primary source, and the microplastics were found alongside elevated levels of heavy metals like lead. This co-contamination is concerning because microplastics can absorb and transport heavy metals, potentially increasing toxic exposure for communities that depend on the lake.

Spatial distribution and characteristics of microplastics and associated contaminants from mid-altitude lake in NW Himalaya

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Researchers documented microplastic contamination and associated phthalate esters in Rewalsar Lake in the Northwest Himalayas, demonstrating that even remote mid-altitude freshwater lakes are significantly affected by microplastic pollution.