The Effects of Microplastic Polymers on the Ficus Religiosa's Root and Shoot Systems

Overview

The purpose of this experiment was to observe the effects of different types of microplastic particles on the growth and health of the Ficus religiosa (Bodhi) tree. It was hypothesized that, out of three plastics, Styrene Butadiene Copolymer (SBC), Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), and Sodium Polyacrylate (SPA), if Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) were used as one of the microplastic contaminants in tap water to grow and root the plant, then the plant would not decay as rapidly as it would in the tap water containing other microplastic polymers since PET is commonly used as a packaging material for liquids for humans consumption. To perform this experiment, three different microplastic shavings from Styrene Butadiene Copolymer (SBC), Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), and Sodium Polyacrylate (SPA) containing products, were placed in tap water containing three Bodhi Tree leaves and were placed in a hydroponic green house. The results of the experiment showed that, among the microplastic polymers, the PET microplastic had the least negative effect on the leaf’s plant growth when compared to the other microplastic polymers. More noticeably was the effect of the tap water when no plastic particles were present which resulted in multiple roots being formed, and a vibrant deep green color was observed. It is clear from the experiment that microplastics adversely affect the Ficus religiosa (Bodhi) tree. For this reason, more research should be performed to learn the negative effects of microplastic particle waste.

Competition history

• AJAS 2020 Category not listed

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