Detection and Characterization of Microplastics in Two Major Lakes of Nepal: Begnas and Phewa

Monika Gurung; Sudeeksha Basyal; Reema Lama Pakhrin; Rashika Pandit; Yubraj Dahal; Bijay Thapa; Bikash Adhikari

doi:10.3126/nprcjmr.v2i13.86578

Detection and Characterization of Microplastics in Two Major Lakes of Nepal: Begnas and Phewa

Authors

Monika Gurung Kathmandu University, Nepal
Sudeeksha Basyal Kathmandu University, Nepal
Reema Lama Pakhrin Kathmandu University, Nepal
Rashika Pandit Kathmandu University, Nepal
Yubraj Dahal Nepal Academy of Science and Technology
Bijay Thapa Kathmandu University, Nepal
Bikash Adhikari Kathmandu University, Nepal

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.3126/nprcjmr.v2i13.86578

Keywords:

Abundance, Color, Morphology, Visual Microscopy, Lakes

Abstract

The widespread use and poor management of plastics are harming the environment. As plastics degrade, they break down into tiny particles smaller than 5mm, known as microplastics (MPs), which have become a growing environmental concern. In Nepal, very few studies have focused on MPs.

This study investigates the sources, identification, and quantity of MPs, including their color and shape, in Begnas Lake and Phewa Lake, Nepal, using a slightly modified National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) protocol. Visual microscopy confirmed the presence of fibers and fragments in samples collected from both lakes. Overall, in Phewa Lake, MPs concentrations ranged from 0.56 ± 0.17 to 2.46 ± 1.66 particles/L, while in Begnas Lake, they ranged from 1.07 ± 0.27 to 1.33 ± 0.51 particles/L. Further studies on exposure and potential health risks are needed. Thus, this study indicates the prospective baseline data of MPs research in Nepal’s lake water.

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