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Integrating Community-Based Environmental Assessment into Engineering Education: A Case Study on Microplastics Distribution and River Discharge in Klang River
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This case study describes engineering students sampling and analysing microplastics in the Klang River in Malaysia as a community-based environmental assessment project, integrating FTIR analysis, pollution data interpretation, and simulation tools. The pedagogical approach improved critical thinking and interdisciplinary skills while generating real environmental data.
This study underscores the integration of real-world environmental issues into engineering education. Practical exposure to analytical methods like FTIR and pollution data analysis enhances students' skills and critical thinking. Incorporating simulation tools and multidisciplinary approaches combining environmental science, chemical engineering, and data analytics fosters a deeper understanding of sustainability. Collaborations with local agencies and community-based projects further prepare students to address environmental challenges, inspiring future engineers to develop responsible, innovative solutions for pollution and industrial waste management. Microplastics, defined as plastic particles less than 5 mm, are a growing environmental concern due to their widespread presence and ecological impact. This study investigates the presence, properties, and distribution of microplastics in the Klang River, particularly near the manufacturing zone in Miel, Seksyen 16, Shah Alam. The area is suspected to contribute wastewater that degrades water quality. Water samples collected from this source were analyzed using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), revealing the presence of Polyamide (PA), Polyethylene (PE), Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC), Polypropylene (PP), and Polystyrene (PS). These are commonly linked to food packaging and industrial waste. The detection of food additives like carboxylic acid and isothiocyanate highlights the complexity of the pollution. Water quality parameters measured include Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD) values of 8.09, 8.24, and $7.96 ext{mg} / \mathrm{L}$, Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) values of 31, 33, and $45 ext{mg} / \mathrm{L}$, and turbidity readings of $2.13,1.64$, and 2.17 NTU.
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