Mapping Microplastic Threats: Research Proposal Presentation

SEAFDEC/IFRDMD held a student research proposal presentation on November 11, 2025, in Palembang. This event was a presentation of a research proposal on microplastic pollution in the Musi River estuary in South Sumatra, which discussed the planned methodology and sampling locations. The presentation was conducted by three students from the Marine Science Department of the Faculty of Mathematics and Natural Sciences, Sriwijaya University. The event was attended by the Chief, Deputy Chief, and staffs of SEAFDEC/IFRDMD, as well as students from the University of Riau as observers.

The presentation of this proposal was conducted to ensure that the students understood the ongoing microplastic research activities under the IFRDMD project, so that their work could contribute effectively to the project’s objectives. The aim was to ensure that microplastic research was conducted according to appropriate scientific standards, was relevant to conservation needs, and produced quality data for public water management.

The event began with the presentation of proposals by the three students, followed by a discussion and question-and-answer session. The audiences provided technical input on research design, such as sediment sampling techniques, microplastic identification, and laboratory analysis plans. The event concluded with the establishment of a fieldwork schedule and initial research preparations.