Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The presence of microplastic pollution in coastal waters has emerged as a major environmental concern worldwide due to its potential impacts on marine ecosystems and human health. This thesis aims to assess the extent of microplastic pollution in coastal waters, investigate its impacts on the marine environment, and propose sustainable solutions to mitigate this problem. The study begins with an introduction to the issue of microplastic pollution, providing a background of the problem and highlighting its significance in the context of coastal ecosystems. The problem statement identifies the key challenges associated with microplastic pollution, including its sources, distribution, and potential ecological consequences. The objectives of the study are outlined to guide the research process, focusing on the assessment of microplastic contamination levels, the evaluation of its impacts on marine organisms, and the development of effective mitigation strategies. A comprehensive literature review is conducted in Chapter Two, exploring existing research on microplastic pollution in coastal waters. The review covers various aspects of the problem, including the sources and types of microplastics, their distribution patterns in marine environments, and their potential effects on marine organisms and ecosystems. The chapter also examines current mitigation measures and their effectiveness in addressing microplastic pollution. Chapter Three details the research methodology employed in this study, including sampling and analysis techniques used to quantify microplastic contamination levels in coastal waters. The chapter outlines the sampling locations, sample collection methods, laboratory analysis procedures, and data interpretation techniques utilized to assess the extent of microplastic pollution in the study area. In Chapter Four, the findings of the study are presented and discussed in detail. The results of the microplastic assessment reveal the presence of microplastics in coastal waters at varying concentrations, highlighting the potential risks posed to marine organisms and ecosystems. The impacts of microplastic pollution on marine biodiversity, food webs, and ecosystem health are evaluated, emphasizing the urgent need for sustainable solutions to address this growing environmental problem. Finally, Chapter Five provides a summary of the key findings and conclusions drawn from the study. The implications of the research findings are discussed in relation to current environmental policies and management practices, highlighting the importance of implementing effective strategies to reduce and prevent microplastic pollution in coastal waters. Recommendations for future research and practical measures to mitigate microplastic contamination are also presented to guide further efforts in protecting coastal ecosystems and promoting marine conservation. In conclusion, this thesis contributes to the understanding of microplastic pollution in coastal waters, its impacts on marine environments, and the development of sustainable solutions to address this pressing environmental issue. By raising awareness of the problem and proposing effective mitigation strategies, this study aims to support conservation efforts and promote the health and resilience of coastal ecosystems for future generations.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Assessment of Microplastic Pollution in Coastal Waters: Impacts and Solutions" aims to investigate the extent of microplastic pollution in coastal waters, the associated impacts on the environment and marine life, and to propose feasible solutions to mitigate this growing environmental concern. Microplastics, which are tiny plastic particles less than 5mm in size, have become a significant environmental issue due to their widespread presence in marine ecosystems. This research seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of the sources, distribution, and effects of microplastics in coastal waters, with a focus on assessing the ecological and human health implications. The study will begin with a thorough review of existing literature on microplastic pollution, including the sources of microplastics, their pathways into marine environments, and the potential risks they pose to marine organisms and ecosystems. This literature review will provide a solid foundation for the subsequent research methodology, which will include field sampling, laboratory analysis, and data interpretation techniques to quantify and characterize microplastic pollution in selected coastal areas. Through the research methodology, the project aims to identify hotspots of microplastic pollution, assess the types and sizes of microplastics present, and evaluate the potential impacts on marine organisms such as fish, seabirds, and invertebrates. Furthermore, the study will explore the transfer of microplastics through the food chain and assess the risks to human health associated with the consumption of contaminated seafood. In the discussion of findings, the project will analyze the data collected during the fieldwork and laboratory analysis, highlighting key trends, patterns, and correlations related to microplastic pollution in coastal waters. The results will be interpreted in the context of current environmental policies and regulations, as well as scientific recommendations for addressing microplastic pollution at local, regional, and global scales. Finally, the project will conclude with a summary of the key findings, implications for environmental management and policy, and recommendations for future research directions. By shedding light on the impacts of microplastic pollution in coastal waters and proposing effective solutions, this research aims to contribute to the ongoing efforts to protect marine ecosystems and safeguard human health from the harmful effects of plastic pollution.