New Research on Microplastic Pollution in the River Thames
A new study investigating microplastic pollution in the River Thames has been initiated by researchers at the University of East London (UEL) with the goal of influencing environmental policy and improving water quality.
The project is led by Dr Ria Devereux from UEL's sustainability research institute. It involves collecting data from multiple locations along the river, spanning from Teddington in south-west London to Southend-on-Sea in Essex.
The samples collected will be analysed to assess changes in pollution levels and to understand the impact of climate pressures on the river system.
Previous research has recorded some of the highest microplastic concentrations in the Thames compared to other rivers worldwide.
"The River Thames is one of the most internationally recognised urban rivers in the world, yet we are still learning about the scale and complexity of microplastic pollution within it.
This project is about providing robust scientific evidence that can support better environmental decision-making and help policymakers understand where interventions may be needed most."
The research aims to determine whether pollution levels have increased or decreased and to evaluate the need for improvements in water quality.
Three litres of surface water will be collected from seven publicly accessible riverside locations along the Thames: Teddington, Westminster, St Katharine Docks, Limehouse, North Woolwich, Tilbury, and Southend. These samples will be filtered in a laboratory to capture microscopic particles.
The filters will then be examined under a microscope, where researchers will identify suspected microplastics and record their size, colour, and shape.
Representative particles will undergo analysis using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), enabling the team to identify the material composition and confirm whether the particles are plastic and, if so, determine their specific type.
This work will contribute to building a detailed picture of microplastic pollution levels along the Thames and how these may evolve over time.
The study will also investigate how storm events and changing environmental conditions influence microplastic concentrations throughout the river system.
Alongside the scientific analysis, the project will generate policy briefings and convene regulators, environmental organisations, and policymakers through a dedicated stakeholder workshop hosted at UEL's Royal Docks Centre for Sustainability.
Microplastics Q&A
There are several definitions of microplastics. One commonly used definition classifies microplastics as any plastic fragment smaller than 5 millimetres, approximately the width of a wedding band.
Primary microplastics refer to particles intentionally added to products, such as microbeads found in face washes and other personal care items.
However, the majority of microplastics originate from the gradual breakdown of larger plastic products, including plastic wrap, takeaway containers, polyester clothing, tyres, paint, and artificial turf. These are known as secondary microplastics.
Microplastics are widespread in the environment, found in water, soil, and air. According to an estimate, approximately 2.7 million tonnes of microplastics entered the environment in 2020, with projections indicating this amount could double by 2040.
Microplastics are generated through various processes. Over time, discarded plastic items such as water bottles and clingfilm degrade into microplastics. Synthetic fabrics like polyester release microplastic fibres during washing. Additionally, products containing microplastic particles release them during use.
Microplastics can enter the human body through ingestion and inhalation. Some research suggests that nanoplastics—particles smaller than one micrometre—may even penetrate the skin, though this remains to be confirmed.
One study found that microplastics can inhibit the growth of phytoplankton, microscopic marine algae that form the base of several aquatic food webs.
Another report indicated that microplastics can reduce soil fertility, negatively affecting agricultural yields.
Research has also suggested that microplastics may accelerate the melting of snow and ice in regions such as the Arctic, which could reduce the Earth's ability to reflect sunlight and contribute to global warming.
Source: United Nations Environment Programme
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