Thesis Abstract

Abstract
The accumulation of microplastics in coastal ecosystems poses a significant threat to marine life and human health. This thesis presents a comprehensive assessment of microplastic pollution in coastal environments, focusing on its impacts and proposing effective mitigation strategies. Chapter One provides a detailed introduction to the research topic, presenting the background of the study, problem statement, objectives, limitations, scope, significance, structure of the thesis, and definition of key terms. The study aims to address the gaps in understanding the sources, distribution, and effects of microplastic pollution in coastal ecosystems. Chapter Two comprises a thorough literature review, encompassing ten key areas related to microplastic pollution in marine environments. It explores existing research on sources, transport mechanisms, ecological impacts, and current mitigation efforts regarding microplastics in coastal ecosystems. Chapter Three outlines the research methodology employed in this study, including sampling techniques, data collection methods, laboratory analysis procedures, and statistical analyses. The chapter also discusses the selection criteria for study sites and the rationale behind the chosen research approach. Chapter Four presents a detailed discussion of the findings obtained from the research, highlighting the sources and distribution patterns of microplastics in coastal ecosystems. The chapter delves into the ecological impacts of microplastic pollution on marine organisms and ecosystems, as well as the potential risks to human health associated with microplastic ingestion. Chapter Five serves as the conclusion and summary of the thesis, emphasizing the key findings, implications, and recommendations for future research and policy development. The study underscores the urgent need for effective mitigation strategies to address the growing threat of microplastic pollution in coastal environments. In conclusion, this thesis contributes to the growing body of knowledge on microplastic pollution in coastal ecosystems by providing a comprehensive assessment of its impacts and proposing viable mitigation strategies. The findings of this study underscore the critical importance of addressing microplastic pollution to safeguard marine biodiversity and human well-being in coastal regions.

Thesis Overview

The project titled "Assessment of Microplastic Pollution in Coastal Ecosystems: Impacts and Mitigation Strategies" aims to investigate the presence, sources, impacts, and potential mitigation strategies of microplastic pollution in coastal ecosystems. Microplastics, which are tiny plastic particles less than 5mm in size, have become a significant environmental concern due to their widespread distribution and persistence in marine environments. Coastal ecosystems, being highly productive and biologically diverse regions, are particularly vulnerable to the detrimental effects of microplastic pollution. The research will begin with a comprehensive literature review to examine existing studies on microplastic pollution in coastal ecosystems, including the sources of microplastics, their distribution patterns, and the known ecological and human health impacts. This review will provide a solid foundation for understanding the current state of knowledge in this field and identify gaps that warrant further investigation. The methodology chapter will outline the research design, sampling techniques, and analytical methods to be employed in the field and laboratory assessments of microplastic pollution. Field surveys will be conducted in selected coastal areas to collect water and sediment samples for microplastic analysis. The samples will be processed using established protocols to quantify and characterize the abundance and types of microplastics present in the study area. The findings chapter will present the results of the microplastic analysis, including the concentrations of microplastics in water and sediment samples, the types of polymers identified, and any spatial or temporal patterns observed. The ecological impacts of microplastic pollution on coastal ecosystems, such as bioaccumulation in marine organisms and alteration of food webs, will be discussed based on the study results. Furthermore, the project will explore potential mitigation strategies to address microplastic pollution in coastal ecosystems. This may include recommendations for improved waste management practices, policy interventions to reduce plastic pollution, and innovative technologies for microplastic removal and remediation. In conclusion, the research on the assessment of microplastic pollution in coastal ecosystems is essential for understanding the extent of this environmental issue and its implications for ecosystem health and human well-being. By identifying effective mitigation strategies, the study aims to contribute to the conservation and sustainable management of coastal ecosystems in the face of increasing plastic pollution threats.