Evaluating microplastic removal efficiencies in wastewater treatment plants: a meta-analysis

Gauhar Boranbayeva

Bakalářská práce

Abstract:

This thesis presents a thorough meta-analysis aimed at assessing the effectiveness of wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) in microplastic (MP) removal. Data was systematically gathered from peer-reviewed studies, monitoring reports, and operational records of WWTPs published over the past decade. The analysis encompasses various treatment stages, including primary, secondary, and tertiary processes, as well as factors such as the types and sizes of MPs, and the methods of treatment used. Additionally, it sorts out the methods used to measure and identify MPs, emphasizing the use of stereo and light microscopy for counting and FTIR or Raman spectroscopy for identifying the types of polymers. A structured method is used to collect data on different types of microplastics, their concentration before and after treatment, and the specific methods used by wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). Furthermore, by employing meta-analytical techniques to synthesize the data, the research will measure the overall performance of WWTPs while accounting for variability across various studies. Utilizing statistical methods, the study synthesizes data from at least 50 WWTPs worldwide and delves into the removal efficiency of distinct polymer types — such as polyethylene, polypropylene, and polystyrene—across different treatment stages, enhancing our understanding of how specific materials are managed by various treatment technologies. This study aligns with global initiatives aimed at reducing the ecological consequences of microplastics, especially within aquatic ecosystems. The results of this study are expected to provide valuable information about how well current WWTP technologies handle microplastic pollution. This will help to identify weaknesses in treatment methods and suggest improvements for better microplastic removal, supporting environmental protection and sustainable wastewater management.

Keywords

Microplastics, Meta-analysis, Removal Efficiencies, Wastewater treatment plants

Jazyk práce: angličtina

Datum vytvoření / odevzdání či podání práce: 26. 3. 2025

Obhajoba závěrečné práce

• Obhajoba proběhla 27. 5. 2025
• Vedoucí: doc. Zhongbing Chen
• Oponent: Jan Vymazal, CSc.

Česká zemědělská univerzita v Praze

Fakulta životního prostředí

Bakalářský studijní program:
Environmental Data Science