Simple River Microplastics Survey Method for Environmental Education

Abstract

  This study proposes a simple survey method to identify riverine microplastics (MPs) as a part of environmental education. The method comprises sample collection, pretreatment, detection, and classification and tabulation. The sample collection tool is designed for use in small streams and can be made easily using readily available materials. The MPs are counted using a binocular stereomicroscope to calculate the number density, and classified according to morphology and size. This simple river MPs survey method allows learners to ascertain the level of MP pollution in their immediate environment.