NCCR Studies on Microplastic Pollution along Indian Coast

Why in news

The Ministry of Earth Sciences, via the National Centre for Coastal Research (NCCR), is monitoring microplastic pollution along the Indian coast. Studies indicate synthetic filaments as the predominant microplastic type, with riverine discharge and ALDFG as major sources. NCCR has developed a Clean Coast Index (CCI) and assessed the Thoothukudi coast and Gulf of Mannar as 'moderately clean'.

Exam relevance

GS1, GS3 · Environment & Ecology, Science & Technology, Governance · Prelims · Mains

Key facts

1. The Ministry of Earth Sciences, through NCCR, monitors microplastics, mesoplastics, macroplastics, and marine litter on the Indian coast.
2. Selected locations include Thoothukudi and the Gulf of Mannar.
3. Synthetic filaments are the predominant type of microplastic found.
4. Riverine discharge and Abandoned, Lost or Discarded Fishing Gear (ALDFG) are major sources of microplastic pollution.
5. NCCR developed the Clean Coast Index (CCI) based on microplastic and macroplastic data.
6. Thoothukudi coast and Gulf of Mannar are classified as 'moderately clean' by CCI.
7. Microplastic abundance in sediment ranges from 28 to 60 particles/50gm in the Gulf of Mannar and Thoothukudi coast.
8. No major microplastic pollution hotspots have been identified in the region.
9. NCCR provides scientific inputs for policy formulation and management to concerned Ministries and stakeholders.

Prelims pointers

• National Centre for Coastal Research (NCCR) is under the Ministry of Earth Sciences.
• Synthetic filaments are a predominant type of microplastic.
• Riverine discharge and ALDFG are identified as major sources of microplastic pollution.
• Clean Coast Index (CCI) is developed by NCCR.
• Thoothukudi coast and Gulf of Mannar assessed as 'moderately clean'.

Mains practice question

Discuss the major sources and impacts of microplastic pollution along the Indian coast. What role can scientific research and policy interventions play in mitigating this environmental challenge?

Static linkage

The studies relate to environmental pollution, specifically marine pollution and the impact of plastic waste. This falls under the broader syllabus topic of Environmental Degradation and Conservation, and issues related to pollution. The mention of policy measures by MoEFCC links to environmental governance and legislation.

Significance

These studies are crucial for understanding the extent and sources of microplastic pollution along the Indian coastline, which poses a significant threat to marine ecosystems and potentially human health. The development of the Clean Coast Index provides a standardized metric for assessing coastal cleanliness. Identifying major sources like riverine discharge and ALDFG is vital for targeted mitigation strategies. The scientific inputs provided by NCCR are essential for informed policy-making by bodies like the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.