HOW DANGEROUS MICROPLASTIC IN LANDFILL AFFECT THE ENVIRONMENTAL AND HUMAN HEALTH

Abstract

Microplastics, which have a diameter less than 5 mm and are derived from plastics, are one of the emerging contaminants of concern. Microplastics can be found in their virgin state in many items of use, or they can be generated as a result of the physical and chemical structure of bigger plastics changing over time. The aims of this study were to investigate the microplastic distribution along landfill soil, leachate, and ground water around the Cipayung Landfill in Depok City. This study is a descriptive study, with examines 3 soil sample, 3 leachate sample, and 1 ground water sample. The abundance and shape of microplastics were characterized using a microscope. The results showed that the average abundance of microplastics in landfill soil sample was 63,556.67 particles/kg, leachate sample was 12,266.67 particles/L, and ground water sample was 3,466.67 particles/L. With the largest percentage being fragments in both soil and leachate samples, and films in ground water samples. The differences in waste types entering the Depok Landfill caused variations in the number, shape, and type of microplastic samples, and this study provides a foundation for mitigating and biodegrading microplastics in the landfill to minimize environmental impact and protect public health.