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Microplastic pollution in the surface water of Yele Mallappa Shetty Lake, Bengaluru: first report
Summary
Researchers found microplastics in water samples from four inlet points of Yele Mallappa Shetty Lake in Bengaluru, India, with an average concentration of about 10 particles per liter — the first such report for this urban lake. Fragments, fibers, films, and foam were all present, made from plastics including polyester and polypropylene. The data provide an important baseline for tracking pollution in urban freshwater bodies, which are critical ecosystems for biodiversity and human water security.
Aim: This study was conducted to identify and characterize microplastics in Yele Mallappa Shetty (YMS) Lake, Bengaluru. Methodology: Water samples were collected from four distinct entry locations to the lake and analysed for microplastic as per the methods adopted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Results: Samples of three different microplastic foams—polyester, polyurethane, and polypropylene—were analysed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM), visual analysis, hot needle testing and Raman spectroscopy. The diameters of various components ranged from 0.2-3 mm, with the majority of the samples consisting of fibres (26%), fragments (27%), films (25%) and foam (22%). The mean concentration of microplastic recorded in the water sample was 10±0.7 particles l-1. Interpretation: Protecting wetland ecosystems is essential because they provide countless services, such as food and building materials, biodiversity, flood control, and groundwater recharge. This study provideds valuable baseline data on microplastics in YMS lake for the first time. Key words: Bengaluru lake; Lake water, Microplastic pollution, Water pollution, Yele Mallappa Shetty Lake
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