UNAIR NEWS – Microplastics are tiny particles that can spread across various environments and pose significant ecological risks. Addressing this issue, the Department of Environmental Engineering at Universitas Airlangga (UNAIR) held a community outreach event on Thursday (June 12, 2025), centered on the characteristics of microplastics. The event was held in Room 303 of the Pertamina Building, Faculty of Science and Technology.
The program was designed for high school students and began with a lecture delivered by Dr. Rizkiy Amaliyah Barakwan, ST, a faculty member from Environmental Engineering. Her presentation was titled Empowering High School Students in Surabaya through Scientific Education on the Types and Characteristics of Microplastics.
Introducing microplastics
Dr. Barakwan began by introducing the concept of microplastics, explaining that they are generally categorized as either primary or secondary. Primary microplastics originate from products such as exfoliating beads in facial scrubs, while secondary microplastics are formed from the breakdown of larger plastic waste.
She pointed out that plastic production has grown exponentially since the 1950s, with Asia accounting for nearly half of global plastic output by 2014. Alarmingly, Indonesia ranks as the second-largest contributor to plastic pollution worldwide.
Plastics are widely manufactured due to their durability, lightweight nature, and resistance to corrosion. They are used extensively across industries such as construction, electronics, agriculture, and household products.
Microplastics, by definition, are particles less than five millimeters in size. They are also resistant to degradation and extremely lightweight. “Because of these traits, microplastics are easily carried by wind, water, and even human activity,” she explained.
Sources of microplastics
Dr. Barakwan also noted that microplastics originate from various sources. “They can come from plastic degradation, consumer products like facial scrubs, worn-down furniture, and tire abrasion on road surfaces,” she said.
She added that there are seven major types of plastic polymers, each with distinct uses and decomposition rates. “PVC, commonly used in pipes and electrical cables, is the most difficult to break down. It’s specifically engineered to be highly durable,” she stated.
However, she also discussed more environmentally friendly alternatives. “Biodegradable plastics, made from plant-based materials, are easier for microorganisms to decompose. These are often used in items like biodegradable trash bags,” she concluded.
Author: Rizma Elyza
Editor: Yulia Rohmawati
