ANALISIS PENCEMARAN MIKROPLASTIK DI SUNGAI BEDOG YOGYAKARTA

This study aims to analyze the presence and types of microplastics in the Bedog River, Yogyakarta, which serves as a water source for the local PDAM (regional water utility). Microplastics, defined as plastic particles smaller than 5 mm, originate from the degradation of larger plastic materials as well as from industrial and household products. Sediment samples were collected from upstream, midstream, and downstream sections of the river and analyzed using Fourier Transform Infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy. The results revealed microplastic contamination at all sites, with four main forms identified: fibers, fragments, granules, and films. FTIR analysis indicated the presence of degraded Polystyrene (PS) polymers. Microplastic abundance was highest upstream, likely due to human activities near Mount Merapi National Park. Physical factors such as current velocity, water depth, and land use changes were found to influence the distribution of microplastics in both water and sediment. This study highlights the urgent need for improved waste management and community awareness to mitigate further microplastic pollution.