MICROPLASTICS POLLUTION IN VIETNAM: CURRENT SITUATIONS AND TREATMENT METHODS

In recent years, microplastic pollution in Vietnam has become a serious issue, particularly due to the increasing amount of non-biodegradable plastic waste, along with the fast processes of urbanization and population growth. Microplastics, with a size of < 5 mm, mainly originated from the degradation of larger plastic products, directly affecting ecosystems and human health. Although research on microplastic pollution has been carried out extensively, microplastics treatment methods, especially in the water supply and drainage systems, remain limited. This paper focused on surveying the current status of microplastic pollution in water supply and drainage systems, including surface water and sediments, while evaluating the effectiveness of existing treatment methods in wastewater treatment plants. The results showed that microplastics primarily exist in the form of fibers and fragments, with higher concentrations in areas with dense populations and industrial activities. Although traditional treatment methods such as activated sludge and coagulation were effective, they were not sufficient to completely remove microplastics, particularly the smaller particles. Therefore, advanced treatment methods such as membrane filtration, electrochemical treatment, and adsorption using biochar showed high potential and should be further developed to reduce microplastic pollution in water supply and drainage systems, thereby protecting the environment and public health.