UNAIR NEWS – The Department of Environmental Engineering at Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) hosted a community outreach program titled Empowering Youth in Environmental Conservation Through Understanding the Dangers of Microplastics to Aquatic Life. Held on Thursday (June 12, 2025), the event targeted high school students and took place in Room 304, third floor of the Pertamina Building, Faculty of Science and Technology (FST), MERR-C Campus.
Prof. Dr. Ir. Agoes Soegianto, DEA, an Environmental Engineering professor at FST UNAIR and a specialist in ecotoxicology, led a session on the environmental hazards posed by microplastics. Drawing from his research, he emphasized that microplastics are a compelling area of study. “Microplastics are fascinating. Despite their small size, they can have a significant impact, although the full extent of that impact is still being explored,” he remarked.
Impact of microplastics
He underscored Indonesia’s position as the world’s second-largest source of plastic pollution. “Indonesia ranks second in global plastic pollution, and no aquatic ecosystem is free from microplastics. These particles are so small that they’ve even been found in natural springs and the air,” he explained.
Prof. Soegianto also referenced a study on microplastic populations in the Java Sea. “The study found that microplastics outnumber plankton in the area, increasing the likelihood that fish mistake them for food,” he said.
He warned that when fish ingest microplastics, it can lead to internal injuries and may introduce toxins into their bodies. These toxins could then accumulate throughout the food chain, posing a threat to other organisms, including humans.
Additionally, microplastics can act as carriers for pollutants such as heavy metals and bacteria. “Microplastics are known to absorb and transport various contaminants, including heavy metals and bacteria. These harmful substances can enter the human body when we consume affected fish,” he noted.
Still, Prof. Soegianto pointed out that research has yet to confirm a direct health impact on humans. “There is no definitive study proving that microplastics pose a significant health risk to humans, as around 80 percent of ingested microplastics are typically expelled from the body,” he added.
He concluded by emphasizing the importance of comprehensive waste management as a solution. “Proper waste management from upstream to downstream requires strong government support,” he stated.
Author: Rizma Elyza
Editor: Yulia Rohmawati
