Vortrag: Aquatic macrophytes: a green solution for the reduction of microplastics in the aquatic environment (Dr. Ula Rozman, University Lubljana)

Ort: Gebäude CIV 060 (UG), Landau,

Abstract:

Microplastic pollution is one of the main environmental problems today and therefore, the development of efficient methods to limit the input of microplastics into the environment is necessary. As part of our research, we have investigated two approaches involving aquatic macrophytes. The first is in situ phytoremediation, where microplastics adhere to plant biomass and are later removed from the system by harvesting the plants. This strategy could be used to remove microplastics already present in the aquatic environment. The other approach is the use of constructed wetlands, systems with vegetation, sediment, and associated microorganisms that simulate natural processes to remove pollutants from wastewater. In our research, they showed high efficiency in the removal of microplastics from wastewater and can be considered as an effective barrier for microplastics to enter the aquatic environment. They could be used as a tertiary treatment step in conventional wastewater treatment plants or separately for the treatment of domestic or storm water. Our results showed that both approaches are highly efficient under controlled laboratory conditions. Nevertheless, further studies on large-scale systems and waste management strategies for contaminated biomass are needed.