Assessing Microplastic Contamination and Water Quality Across Natural and Human-Impacted Freshwater Systems in Costa Rica
Faculty Mentor
Dr. Lewis Stetson Rowles
Location
Russell Union Ballroom
Type of Research
On-going
Session Format
Poster Presentation
College
Allen E. Paulson College of Engineering & Computing
Department
Civil Engineering and Construction
Abstract
Microplastics are increasingly recognized as pollutants of concern in freshwater ecosystems, yet tropical environments remain underrepresented in global research. This study explores microplastic contamination across natural and human-impacted freshwater systems in Costa Rica, where diverse watersheds intersect with agriculture, tourism, and urban development. Water samples were collected from pristine forest streams, peri-urban rivers, and agricultural catchments. Basic water quality parameters (pH, oxidation-reduction potential, dissolved oxygen, turbidity), metals and metalloids, and microbial community profiles were collected to provide context for contaminant transport and ecosystem health. Samples were processed through vacuum filtration and analyzed using inductively coupled plasma (ICP) analysis for trace elements, 16S rRNA for the microbial community, and micro-Raman spectroscopy to identify polymer type, size, and morphology. In addition, structured surveys of local residents and tourists were conducted to assess awareness and perceptions of microplastic pollution. By combining environmental measurements with community perspectives, this study emphasizes the influence of human activity on freshwater quality and highlights the need for integrated strategies that address both scientific understanding and public engagement. The findings provide a baseline for future research and management efforts aimed at reducing plastic pollution in tropical watersheds.
Program Description
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Start Date
4-23-2026 10:00 AM
End Date
4-23-2026 12:00 PM
Recommended Citation
Ramos-Perez, Yocelin L. and Tushar, Md. Moshiur R., "Assessing Microplastic Contamination and Water Quality Across Natural and Human-Impacted Freshwater Systems in Costa Rica" (2026). GS4 Student Scholars Symposium. 81.
https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/research_symposium/2026/2026/81
Assessing Microplastic Contamination and Water Quality Across Natural and Human-Impacted Freshwater Systems in Costa Rica
Russell Union Ballroom
Microplastics are increasingly recognized as pollutants of concern in freshwater ecosystems, yet tropical environments remain underrepresented in global research. This study explores microplastic contamination across natural and human-impacted freshwater systems in Costa Rica, where diverse watersheds intersect with agriculture, tourism, and urban development. Water samples were collected from pristine forest streams, peri-urban rivers, and agricultural catchments. Basic water quality parameters (pH, oxidation-reduction potential, dissolved oxygen, turbidity), metals and metalloids, and microbial community profiles were collected to provide context for contaminant transport and ecosystem health. Samples were processed through vacuum filtration and analyzed using inductively coupled plasma (ICP) analysis for trace elements, 16S rRNA for the microbial community, and micro-Raman spectroscopy to identify polymer type, size, and morphology. In addition, structured surveys of local residents and tourists were conducted to assess awareness and perceptions of microplastic pollution. By combining environmental measurements with community perspectives, this study emphasizes the influence of human activity on freshwater quality and highlights the need for integrated strategies that address both scientific understanding and public engagement. The findings provide a baseline for future research and management efforts aimed at reducing plastic pollution in tropical watersheds.
