Assessment of Microplastic Contamination in the Sediments of Adyar River, Chennai: Distribution and Source Identification

Plastic pollution, including the insidious presence of microplastics, has emerged as one of the most pressing and alarming global issues affecting aquatic ecosystems worldwide. The rapid increase in plastic waste, particularly in the form of microplastics, is posing a significant threat to the health and sustainability of marine and freshwater environments. The present study is aimed to assess microplastic contamination in sediment samples collected from the Adyar River in Chennai, India. A total of 10 Sediment samples were collected from different locations all along the river for Microplastic analysis. The identification of microplastics was carried out utilizing a stereomicroscope. The present study reveals the mean concentration of MPs in the sediment sample was.1977± 137(Average ± Standard Error, n=10). MP/kg, of dry weight of the sediment sample. The prominent shape types of MPs in the sediments were into fibers (47%), films (21%), fragments (18%), pellets (10%), foam (2%), and beads (2%)., The colour of the MP was mostly, transparent (34.45%), followed by red (20.40%), white (18.75%), blue (14.52 %), orange (6.08%), green (2.19%), yellow (2.19%), and black (1.35%) Furthermore, Raman spectroscopy was employed to investigate and characterize the polymer compositions of the MPs. Raman Spectroscopy results showed the predominant abundance of microplastics, such as nylon, polypropylene, polymethyl (methacrylate), and polystyrene. Showing textiles,Plastic Litter, wastewater as sources of Microplastics in this river. The findings underscore the pressing requirement for efficient waste management approaches, encompassing responsible disposal and recycling practices, to address the issue of microplastic pollution in the Adyar River. Additionally, it is imperative to enhance public awareness regarding the detrimental effects of microplastics and implement proactive measures to protect the Adyar River's ecosystem and foster sustainable water resource management