Login With Google
More plastic pollution on Maharashtra beaches than Karnataka, Goa: study
Why in news?
- Beaches in Maharashtra are more polluted with micro plastics and macro plastics than those in Goa and Karnataka, according to a study conducted by a research institute.
- The study has blamed plastic industries located near the shore and increased tourism activities for the pollution.
More in news
- Study conducted by: Goa-based National Institute of Oceanography (NIO), a research institute.
- Study Published in: Netherlands-based journal ‘Chemosphere
- Title of Study: ‘Assessment of macro and micro plastics along the west coast of India: abundance, distribution, polymer type and toxicity’.
- Assessment Place and Period: The researchers conducted the assessment of macro and micro plastic contamination for two years on 10 beaches along the western coast of India and their toxic effects on marine organisms.
- Findings in the Study:
(1) Contaminants more in Maharashtra: Highest abundance of macro & micro plastic contaminants is found on beaches in Maharashtra at high tide line as compared to Karnataka and Goa.
(2) Sources of Plastic near shore: Such a phenomenon of finding macro and micro plastics in abundance on Maharashtra beaches suggests that the contaminants are land-based, like (coming from) near shore plastic industries, port areas, petroleum industries, and high tourism activities.
(3) Colour of Contaminants: The plastic contaminants on these beaches were found in various colours like white, pale yellow, dark brown, green, blue & red.
Sources
The Hindu