The National Institute of Oceanography (NIO) recently conducted a study that reveals the increasing pollution levels in Maharashtra’s beaches, specifically from micro and macro-plastics. The research indicates that these shores harbor more plastic contaminants than Goa and Karnataka’s coasts. This factual investigation is christened “Assessment of macro and micro-plastics along the west coast of India: abundance, distribution, polymer type, and toxicity.”
The Assessment:
Spanning two years, this NIO study scrutinized 10 beaches along the western Indian coastline to quantitatively and qualitatively analyze macro and microplastic contamination. Furthermore, it aimed to assess these pollutants’ potential toxic impact on marine organisms. Microplastics, defined as particles less than five millimeters in length, and macroplastics, particles larger than five millimeters, are the primary focus.
Reasons for Pollution:
The investigation identified land-based contaminants as the chief culprits for the plastics pollution. Predominantly, these emanate from close shore plastic industries, port areas, petroleum industries, and high tourism activities, contributing significantly to the ongoing problem.
| Major Source of Pollution | Examples |
|---|---|
| Plastic Industries | Manufacturing wastes, production scraps |
| Port Areas | Discarded fishing gear, shipping wastes |
| Petroleum Industries | Industrial effluents, spillages |
| Tourism Activities | Single-use packaging, food wrappers |
Recommendations:
In response to the concerning findings, the study proposes that the government formulate strategies to eliminate single-use plastic and improve recycling systems. It further recommends engaging the public through awareness sessions to protect the marine environment from ongoing damage due to plastic contaminants.
About the National Institute of Oceanography:
NIO is a multidisciplinary oceanographic research institution, part of the New Delhi-based Council of Scientific & Industrial Research (CSIR). Its headquarter in Dona Paula, Goa, commands regional centers in Kochi (Kerala), Mumbai (Maharashtra), and Visakhapatnam (Andhra Pradesh). The institute was established on 1 January 1966 following the International Indian Ocean Expedition (IIOE) initiative of the 1960s.
Research Focus:
The primary research agenda at NIO revolves around observing and understanding the distinctive oceanographic attributes of the Indian Ocean. The core research domains encompass biological, chemical, geological/geophysical, and physical oceanography, besides ocean engineering, marine instrumentation, and marine archaeology.
The International Indian Ocean Expedition:
During 1962-1965, the International Indian Ocean Expedition emerged as one of the largest international cross-disciplined attempts to delve into the Indian Ocean’s mysteries. Forty oceanographic research vessels from 13 nations embarked on this expedition, collecting varied and valuable data from diverse marine science disciplines. The second phase of this insightful journey (IIOE-2), spanning 2015-2020, aimed to uncover new insights about the Indian Ocean crucial for its future sustainable development and the growth of the blue economy.
Last Modified: February 6, 2024