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Microplastic Pollution in High Population Density Zones of Selected Rivers from Southeast Asia
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Researchers compared microplastic pollution in three major Southeast Asian rivers, the Chao Phraya in Thailand, the Saigon River in Vietnam, and the Citarum River in Indonesia, all in densely populated urban areas. Microplastics were found at every sampling site, with the highest levels in Thailand's river. Since these rivers supply water for drinking, agriculture, and fishing for millions of people, the contamination directly affects human microplastic exposure in the region.
Southeast Asia (SEA) faces significant environmental challenges due to rapid population growth and economic activity. Rivers in the region are major sources of plastic waste in oceans. Concerns about their contribution have grown, but knowledge of microplastics in the area is still limited. This article compares microplastic levels in sediment and water from urban zones of three major rivers in SEA: Chao Phraya River (Thailand), Saigon River (Vietnam), and Citarum River (Indonesia). The study reveals that in all three rivers, microplastics were found, with the highest concentrations in Chao Phraya's water (80 ± 60 items/m) and Saigon's sediment (9167 ± 4559 items/kg). The variations in microplastic sizes and concentrations among these rivers may be attributed to environmental factors and the exposure duration of plastic to the environment. Since these rivers are important water supply sources, rigorous land-use regulations and raising public awareness are crucial to mitigate plastic and microplastic pollution.
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