"Microplastic pollution in coastal ecosystems like the Sundarbans poses a threat not just to biodiversity but to India's climate commitments ." Examine the mechanisms through which

Introduction

Rising microplastic pollution in fragile coastal systems like the Sundarbans threatens not only biodiversity but also blue carbon dynamics, with implications for India’s climate commitments.

Mechanisms: Disruption of Marine Carbon Cycles

Interference with primary productivity

• Microplastics reduce light penetration and attach to phytoplankton.
• Lowers photosynthesis, weakening the ocean’s carbon sequestration capacity.

Impact on biological carbon pump

• Ingestion by zooplankton and fish alters feeding and excretion.
• Disrupts transfer of carbon from surface to deep ocean.

Alteration of sediment dynamics

• Microplastics accumulate in mangrove and coastal sediments.
• Affect carbon burial processes in blue carbon ecosystems like mangroves.

Toxicological effects on biota

• Release of additives and adsorbed pollutants harms marine organisms.
• Reduces ecosystem resilience and carbon storage potential.

Fragmentation feedback loop

• Plastics degrade into smaller particles but persist longer.
• Creates a long-term, cumulative impact on carbon cycling.

Integrated Policy Framework

Source reduction and regulation

• Strengthen bans on single-use plastics and improve enforcement.
• Promote biodegradable and alternative materials.

Waste management reforms

• Enhance coastal waste collection and segregation systems.
• Prevent riverine inflow of plastics into marine ecosystems.

Ecosystem-based management

• Protect and restore mangroves and coastal wetlands.
• Integrate microplastic monitoring into coastal zone management plans.

Research and monitoring

• Develop standardized protocols for microplastic assessment.
• Support studies on impacts on carbon cycles and climate linkages.

Institutional coordination

• Align policies across MoEFCC, fisheries, urban local bodies, and coastal authorities.
• Strengthen implementation under CRZ regulations.

Community and global engagement

• Promote local participation in clean-up and awareness drives.
• Engage in global agreements on plastic pollution control.

Conclusion

Addressing microplastic pollution requires a holistic approach that links pollution control with climate policy, ensuring protection of coastal ecosystems and their carbon sequestration functions.