Microplastic Pollution in the Shore Sediments of Narmada River Along Jabalpur City

Abstract

Microplastics, due to their microscopic size, constitute a concern to aquatic species since they are easier to consume and the recent discovery of microplastic in human blood shows that these may also have undisclosed health effects on humans. This study provides microplastic characteristics and abundance of microplastics in the shore sediments of Narmada river flowing along Jabalpur City. The information about the presence of microplastics can be crucial in preventing further pollution and developing management interventions. Sediments samples were collected from 4 sites along a 50 km stretch of the river. Sample pretreatment was performed using ZnCl2 solution for density separation and H2O2 for oxidation of organic material. Microplastics examination was carried out using Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR). Microplastics in the 20-1000 μm size range were found to be more abundant (114-273 MP/Kg) than larger microplastics in the 1-5 mm size range (18-110 MP/Kg). This research presents the first accounts of microplastic pollution in the shore sediments of Narmada River and it emphasizes the need for more in-depth research into microplastic pollution in fresh water sources.