CURRENT STATUS AND SOLUTIONS TO LIMIT PLASTIC WASTE POLLUTIONIN URBAN WATER BODIES: THE CASE OF XANG THOI LAKE, CAN THO CITY

Abstract

Currently, plastic waste is one of the emerging factors affecting the quality of the water environment. The objective of this study is to evaluate the quantity, volume and chemical composition of plastic waste scattered on sidewalks, grass around canals, around lakes as well as accumulated on the water surface in canals and Xang Thoi lake (An Cu ward, Can Tho city). Plastic waste discarded on sidewalks, grass around the lake was collected by hand, and plastic waste accumulated in the inner lake was picked up with nets on October 22, 2023. The results show that scattered and accumulated plastic waste has affected the quality and environmental landscape of urban water bodies. Plastic pollution is caused by human activities around the lake with a diverse number of pieces and a significant volume. The composition of plastic waste scattered on sidewalks, grass around canals and around lakes accounts for 76.92% and accumulates in the lake bed and canals over 88.89%. PP plastic (Polypropylene) was found scattered around the lake, with 76.67% and PET plastic (Polyethylene terephthalate) was found around the canal with 46.51%. PET plastic accumulates in the lake bed the most, accounting for 38.08% and PP plastic accumulates in the canal, accounting for 50%. Solutions that need to be implemented such as propagating and instructing people to limit littering as well as increasing the density of public trash around the lake are urgent solutions. Besides, increase people's awareness of using environmentally friendly materials to reduce plastic waste. Sustainable and synchronous management solutions by increasing recycling of plastic waste, after periodically collecting and cleaning the lake, need to be considered in the context of the current circular economy.