Environmental Pollution Journal

Existence Value of Post-Mining Conservation Area: A Contingent Valuation Study of Lati Petangis Grand Forest Park, East Kalimantan

Eni Rohkayati — 2026-03-04

Quantifying the existence value of post-mining conservation areas is essential for justifying their legal protection and securing conservation finance, yet such assessments remain scarce in Indonesian tropical settings. This study estimates the existence value of Lati Petangis Grand Forest Park (Tahura Lati Petangis/TLP), a conservation area established from former coal mining land in Paser Regency, East Kalimantan. The Contingent Valuation Method (CVM) with a Willingness to Pay (WTP) approach was applied to 96 visitor respondents. Results show a weighted mean WTP of IDR 178,486 per individual with an 87.5% participation rate. The existence value was estimated at IDR 21,284,188,625 for the visitor population and IDR 752,608,083 for surrounding local communities, yielding a combined total existence value of IDR 22,036,796,708 per year, equivalent to 2.29% of the total economic value under the moderate scenario. The high existence value reflects strong public support for preserving this post-mining landscape and provides empirical grounding for conservation policy and Payment for Ecosystem Services mechanisms at comparable restoration sites across Indonesia.

Topical Polyethylene Exposure Induces Conjunctival Inflammation and Early Meibomian Gland Alterations in Wistar Rats

Felicia Yoshe — 2026-02-25

Nanoplastics are plastic particles smaller than 1000 nm formed from plastic degradation, including polyethylene (PE) These particles can enter the eye through environmental exposure or topical products and may induce oxidative stress, inflammation, and Meibomian gland dysfunctionEvidence regarding ocular toxicity from topical nanoplastic exposure remains limited. To evaluate the effects of topical polyethylene nanoplastic exposure on ocular surface inflammation and Meibomian gland histology. This experimental post-test only study used male Rattus norvegicus Wistar rats receiving topical polyethylene nanoplastic eye drops. Histopathological analysis with Hematoxylin–Eosin staining assessed PMN infiltration, normal Meibomian acini, acinar width, and gland obstruction. PMN infiltration in the palpebral conjunctiva increased significantly (p=0.014), while normal Meibomian acini decreased significantly (p=0.000). Other parameters showed no significant differences. Topical polyethylene nanoplastic exposure induces conjunctival inflammation and early Meibomian gland alterations.

Effects of Oral Polyethylene Microplastic Dose on Wistar Rats’ Cognition Assessed by Morris Water Maze

Michael Yohanes Kuncoro — 2026-03-10

Orally ingested polyethylene (LDPE) microplastics are suspected to impair cognitive function through disturbances in the central nervous system, particularly in cognitive regions such as the cortex and hippocampus. This study aims to evaluate the effect of varying oral doses of LDPE microplastics on the cognitive function of Wistar Rattus norvegicus using the Morris Water Maze (MWM) test. This experimental study employed a post-test only control group design involving 21 male Wistar rats divided into four groups: a control group and three treatment groups receiving LDPE microplastics at low dose and high dose administered orally for 28 days (particle size ≤20 µm). Cognitive function was assessed using the latency time to locate the hidden platform in the MWM and analyzed statistically. The mean latency tended to increase with increasing dose. Using the control group as the baseline, there was a slight increase in the outcome in the low dose group, and a markedly higher increase observed in the high dose group. Statistical analysis showed a significant difference between the control group and the high dose group (p = 0.009). Oral administration of LDPE microplastics at high dose for 28 days was associated with a significant impairment in cognitive function.

The Role of Amniotic Fluid as a Biomarker for Identifying and Evaluating Microplastic Exposure

Nabilatun Nasaroh — 2026-02-26

Microplastics (MPs) are environmental contamination that can potentially threaten the health of pregnant women and fetuses. This study aims to identify the presence and characteristics of Microplastics (MPs) in amniotic fluid and evaluate their potential as biomarkers of exposure during pregnancy. The study used a cross-sectional observational approach with 14 amniotic fluid samples collected aseptically in Gresik Regency. Analysis was performed through biological digestion using KOH and identification of particles in the samples by microscopy. Results showed all samples contained MPs dominated by Fiber type. This finding confirms the ability of MPs to penetrate biological barriers and reach an environment that should be sterile for the fetus. This study confirms the importance of monitoring MPs exposure during pregnancy and recommends utilizing amniotic fluid as a biomarker to support prevention and mitigation strategies for maternal and fetal health risks.

Correlation of Microplastic Levels with Erythrocyte Profiles in Wistar Rats Orally Exposed to Polyethylene Microplastics

I Komang Andriana Yastalasmana — 2026-03-16

Polyethylene microplastics are widely used in single-use products and can enter the body through contaminated food or beverages. After ingestion, these particles may cross the intestinal barrier and reach systemic circulation. Their presence in blood is suspected to induce oxidative stress through increased reactive oxygen species, potentially affecting erythrocyte membrane integrity. Erythrocytes are essential for oxygen transport, and structural damage may reduce their flexibility and lead to morphological abnormalities. This study aimed to evaluate the correlation between microplastic counts in blood and erythrocyte profiles in Wistar rats exposed orally to polyethylene microplastics. A quantitative experimental study with a post-test only control group design was conducted. Male Wistar rats were assigned to one control group and three exposure groups receiving different microplastic doses for four weeks. Microplastics were identified using light microscopy and Fourier Transform Infrared spectroscopy, while erythrocyte profiles were assessed through peripheral blood smears and hematological examination. Microplastics were detected in exposed groups, accompanied by several abnormal erythrocyte forms. However, no significant differences or correlations were observed between microplastic counts and erythrocyte parameters. Oral exposure to polyethylene microplastics did not significantly alter erythrocyte profiles, although potential morphological effects cannot be excluded.

Penilaian Polymer Hazard Index Mikroplastik Pada Sedimen Sungai Batanghari

Indah Nur Aini — 2026-02-24

Mikroplastik dapat ditemukan pada sedimen sungai disebabkan oleh arus air yang mengangkut mikroplastik dari sumbernya lalu mengendapkannya di sedimen. Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menganalisis karakteristik dan kelimpahan mikroplastik, menganalisis hubungan karakteristik sedimen dengan mikroplastik, serta menilai risiko mikroplastik melalui polymer hazard index. Pengambilan sampel sedimen menggunakan metode grab sampling. Analisis laboratorium dilakukan untuk mengidentifikasi bentuk, warna, ukuran dan jenis mikroplastik. Jenis mikroplastik yang ditemukan yaitu fiber, filamen, fragmen dan pellet dengan variasi warna seperti merah, kuning, biru, ungu, hitam, transparan, coklat dan silver. Mikroplastik juga ditemukan dengan ukuran yang bervariasi. Nilai PHI termasuk kategori sedang. Penelitian lanjutan diperlukan untuk memahami lebih dalam distribusi dan dampak mikroplastik serta upaya mitigasinya.

The Role of Zero Waste Learning Classes in Shaping Environmental Behavioral Change and Collective Identity

Nurul Hidayah — 2026-02-10

This study analyzes the role of the Zero Waste Learning Class (Kelas Belajar Zero Waste/BZW) in shaping environmental behavior change and collective identity through community-based environmental education. A qualitative phenomenological approach was employed to explore the lived experiences of 14 BZW alumni as part of a grassroots sustainability movement. Data were collected through in-depth interviews, participant observation, and analysis of community documents, and analyzed using thematic analysis guided by the Theory of Planned Behavior, Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, and Collective Identity Theory. The findings show that participation in BZW promotes gradual and sustained pro-environmental behavior change, influenced by positive attitudes toward zero waste practices, strengthened community social norms, and increased perceived behavioral control through practical learning processes. This process also fosters a shift in motivation and values from individual concern to collective ecological responsibility. The study concludes that the Zero Waste Learning Class functions as a transformative learning environment that contributes to the development of ecological citizenship at the community level.

The Effect of LDPE Micropastics in the Blood on Leydig Cell Damage, Sertoli Cell Damage, and Sperm Count in the Male Wistar Rats

Shallom Emmanuella Milanisty — 2026-02-27

Low-density polyethylene (LDPE) microplastics are increasingly detected in the environment and can enter the human body through ingestion or inhalation. Microplastic exposure is associated with oxidative stress, inflammation, and cellular injury that may impair male reproductive health. Leydig and Sertoli cells play essential roles in spermatogenesis; therefore, damage to these cells can reduce sperm production and quality. However, evidence regarding the effects of LDPE microplastics on testicular morphology and spermatogenesis is still limited. This research aims to determine the effects of oral LDPE microplastic exposure on Leydig cell injury, Sertoli cell injury, and sperm count in male Wistar rats. This true experimental study used a post-test only control group design. Rats were divided into control and LDPE-treated groups. Testicular histopathology was evaluated, and data were analyzed using the Kruskal–Wallis test, Levene’s test, and Spearman correlation. LDPE exposure caused degenerative changes in Leydig and Sertoli cells and significantly reduced sperm count (p < 0.001). Oral LDPE microplastic exposure induces testicular cell damage and decreases sperm count, indicating potential reproductive toxicity.

Projection of Transportation CO₂ Emissions and Local Biogas Potential in Jember Regency

Rusdiana Setyaningtyas — 2026-03-13

The daily transportation sector is a major source of air pollution and CO₂ emissions in Jember Regency, driven by the growth of motorized vehicles and fossil fuel consumption. This study aims to project CO₂ emissions from daily transportation and to assess the potential of local biogas as a renewable energy alternative for fossil fuel substitution. A quantitative approach based on secondary data was applied using multi-horizon projections for 2030, 2045, and 2060. Transportation-related CO₂ emissions were estimated using the IPCC methodology for mobile combustion, while biogas potential was calculated from organic municipal waste, livestock manure, agricultural and plantation residues, and landfill methane using volatile solids–biochemical methane potential and first-order decay approaches. The results indicate that transportation emissions are projected to increase, while Jember Regency has significant local biogas potential, equivalent to 2.98–3.20 PJ of energy per year, indicating opportunities for partial fossil fuel substitution through a scenario-based approach.

Microplastic Detection in the Blood of Female Waste Workers at Landfill Site

Amalia Putri Kurniawati — 2026-02-25

Microplastics constitute an emerging environmental health concern, as their presence has been confirmed in human blood, with potential implications for adverse health outcomes, particularly among occupationally exposed populations. This study was conducted to identify the presence of fragment-type microplastics in human blood and to observe their relationship with individual characteristics (age, length of employment, and type of work) in a group of female scavengers. A total of 24 blood samples were analyzed using the blood smear method and observed under a binocular light microscope. The results showed that all samples contained microplastic fragments. Statistical analysis using the chi-square test on variables such as age, length of employment, and type of work did not show a significant association with the presence of microplastics. Stricter monitoring and control of plastic exposure in landfill environments are needed, along with occupational health protection for vulnerable waste pickers. Additionally, further research using more advanced chemical analysis methods and a larger sample size is important to strengthen the findings and identify potential long-term health risks.