Quantification Study of Non -Biodegradable Solid Waste Materials Accumulated in The Mangroves of Mahim Creek, Mumbai

In the present investigation quantification study on three major Non-Biodegradable Solid Waste (NBDSW) materials viz. plastics, synthetic rubber and glass was performed in the mangroves of Mahim creek of Mumbai. The study was performed before and after spring tide for the period of five months i.e. from October 2010 to February 2011. It was observed that plastics were the major dominating NBDSW materials contributing to 71 % and 55 %, while contribution of synthetic rubber was found to be 26 % and 41 % during first and second sampling respectively. Also it was observed that contribution of synthetic rubber and glass materials was more after the spring tide as compared to that of before. These solid waste pollutants from various sources are affecting the mangrove ecosystem. Although most of these NBDSW materials can be controlled by recycling and incineration, the issue pertaining solid waste pollutants along the Mahim Creek seems to be completely neglected. The results of present study point out the need to make serious changes in our approach to waste management and disposal.