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Mikroplastika (MP) se, zaradi obsežne uporabe plastike in nepravilnega ravnanja z njo, vse pogosteje sprošča v okolje. Ker ima MP nizko gostoto, maso in velikost je zelo mobilna in se z lahkoto prenaša med različnimi ekosistemi. Številne študije navajajo, da se lahko na MP adsorbirajo organska in anorganska onesnaževala ter biološke molekule. Veliko raziskav se je osredotočilo na interakcije MP z mikroorganizmi, kljub temu je trenutno malo znanega o njenih interakcijah z virusi. Zato smo v raziskovalnem delu preučevali interakcije in zmožnost adsorpcije dveh virusov (bakteriofagov), to sta T4 virus brez ovojnice in phi6 virus z membransko ovojnico, na MP. Za študij interakcij smo izbrali dve najpogosteje najdeni MP v okolju – fragmente polietilena (MPPE) in vlakna polietilen tereftalata (MPPET). Ugotovili smo, da imata na interakcije med MP in virusi znaten vpliv vrsta in struktura MP. Do adsorpcije virusov je prišlo le v primeru MPPE, kjer so prevladovale hidrofobne interakcije, medtem ko interakcij z MPPET zaradi vlaknaste strukture in razlike v hidrofobnosti ni bilo opaziti. Prav tako smo preučili nekatere parametre vpliva strukture in vrste virusa na adsorpcijo. Ta je bila znatno počasnejša pri virusu brez ovojnice v primerjavi z virusom z membransko ovojnico. Adsorpcija virusa z membransko ovojnico je hitreje dosegla ravnotežno koncentracijo v suspenziji. Po adsorpciji smo ovrednotili tudi infektivnost MP z adsorbiranimi virusi in ugotovili, da je bila zmožnost virusa, da po adsorpciji okuži bakterije opazna samo pri virusu brez ovojnice. Tudi pri testu stabilnosti po adsorpciji, se je virus brez ovojnice izkazal kot bolj stabilen, saj je zaradi njegove strukture bolj robusten in obstojnejši na okoljske dejavnike ter ostane infektiven tudi pri spremenjenih okoljskih pogojih. Rezultati raziskave kažejo na to, da MP v okolju lahko prevzame vlogo transportnega vektorja za prenos virusov, pri čemer je proces pogojen z vrsto in strukturo MP. Virusi, ki so na splošno bolj odporni na spremembo okoljskih pogojev, bodo tudi po adsorpciji ostali na površini MP stabilni in infektivni ter bodo zmožni okužbe organizmov v popolnoma novem okolju. Microplastics (MP) are increasingly released into the environment due to extensive plastic use and improper handling. Due to their low density, mass, and size, they are highly mobile and easily transported across different ecosystems. Numerous studies indicate that organic and inorganic pollutants, as well as biological molecules, can adsorb onto MP. Many studies focused on interaction of MP with microorganisms but less is known about their interactions with viruses. In this context, we investigated the interactions and adsorption capability of two viruses (bacteriophages), namely the T4 non-enveloped virus and phi6 virus with a membranous envelope, on MP. For the study of interactions, we selected the two most commonly found types of MP in the environment - polyethylene fragments (MPPE) and polyethylene terephthalate fibres (MPPET). It was found that the type and structure of MP significantly influence the interactions between MP and viruses. Viral adsorption occurred only in the case of MPPE, where hydrophobic interactions prevailed. While no interactions were observed with MPPET due to its fibrous structure and differences in hydrophobicity. We also examined some parameters regarding the influence of structure and virus type on adsorption. Adsorption was significantly slower for the non-enveloped virus compared to the virus with a membranous envelope. The adsorption of the envelope virus reached equilibrium concentration in the suspension more rapidly. After adsorption, we evaluated the infectivity of MP with adsorbed viruses and found that the ability of the virus to infect bacteria was only evident in the case of the non-enveloped virus. In the stability test following adsorption, the non-enveloped virus demonstrated greater stability due to its structure, being more robust and resistant to environmental factors, remaining infectious even under altered environmental conditions. The research results indicate that in the environment, MP can serve as a transport vector for the transfer of viruses to distant locations. The process is solely dependent on the type and structure of the MP. Non-enveloped viruses, which are more resistant to changes in environmental conditions, will remain stable and infectious on the surface of the MP after adsorption, thus capable of infecting organisms in a completely new environment.

Mikroplastika je vrsta plastičnih odpadkov, ki je v zadnjih letih deležna vse večje pozornosti. Mikroplastika pride v okolje iz različnih virov. Pomembnem vir so očiščene odpadne vode, ki prihajajo iz komunalnih čistilnih naprav. Alternativa konvencionalnim komunalnim čistilnim napravam so lahko rastlinske čistilne naprave. Rastlinske čistilne naprave izkoriščajo zmožnosti rastlin, prsti in mikrobne združbe za čiščenje odpadne vode. Zaradi velikega števila mikroplastike v komunalnih odpadnih vodah se pojavlja vprašanje o možnih vplivih na učinkovitost procesov v rastlinski čistilni napravi. Problematika vpliva mikroplastike na delovanje in na učinkovitost rastlinskih čistilnih napravah je še premalo raziskana in ne povsem razumljena. Vplive mikroplastike smo raziskovali v laboratorijski rastlinski čistilni napravi s podpovršinskim horizontalnim tokom. Opazovali smo vtočne in iztočne parametre amonijevega, nitritnega in nitratnega dušika, kemijske potrebe po kisiku, biokemijske potrebe po kisiku, celotnega organskega ogljika, ortofosfata, klorida, ter pH pred in po začetku dodajanja mikroplastike. Dodajali smo dva tipa mikroplastike, ki jih pogosto najdemo v odpadnih voda – polietilenske mikrokroglice iz kozmetike in poliakrilonitrilna sintetična vlakna. Spremljali smo tudi učinkovitost zadrževanja mikroplastike. Rezultati so pokazali, da rastlinska čistilna naprava dobro obratuje in učinkovito odstranjuje ogljikove, dušikove in fosforjeve spojine. Po dodatku mikroplastike ni prišlo do sprememb pri odstranjevanju ogljikovih spojin, opazili smo pa večje spremembe pri odstranjevanju nitritnega dušika in odstranjevanju ortofosfata. Laboratorijska rastlinska čistilna naprava je učinkovito zadržala skoraj celotni delež dodane mikroplastike. Večina mikroplastike je bila nakopičena v začetnem delu sedimenta čistilne naprave. Microplastics are a type of plastic waste that has received increasing attention in recent years. Microplastics enter the environment from various sources. An important source is the treated wastewater that comes from municipal wastewater treatment plants. Constructed wetlands can be considered as an alternative to conventional municipal treatment plants. Constructed wetlands utilize the properties of plants, soil, and microbial communities to treat wastewater. Due to the large number of microplastics in municipal wastewater, the question arises about the possible effects on the efficiency of the wastewater treatment processes. The influence of microplastics on the operation and efficiency of constructed wetlands has not been sufficiently researched and is not yet fully understood. The effects of microplastics on efficiency were investigated in a laboratory constructed wetland with a subsurface horizontal flow. We determined ammonium, nitrite and nitrate nitrogen, chemical oxygen demand, biochemical oxygen demand, total organic carbon, orthophosphate, chloride and pH before and after the microplastics addition. We added two types of microplastics that are often found in wastewater – polyethylene microbeads from cosmetics and polyacrylonitrile synthetic fibers. We also monitored the efficiency of microplastic retention. The results showed that the constructed wetland operates well and effectively removes carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus compounds. After the addition of microplastics, there were no changes in the removal of carbon compounds, but we observed greater changes in the removal of nitrite nitrogen and the removal of orthophosphate. The laboratory constructed wetland effectively retained almost all of the added microplastics. Most of the microplastics accumulated in the initial part of the sediment of the constructed wetland.

Mikroplastika, ki jo definiramo kot delce plastike v velikosti od 1 do 1000 µm, je trenutno eno od najbolj razširjenih onesnaževal. Kljub velikemu številu raziskav na področju mikroplastike o interakcijah med mikroplastiko in vodnimi organizmi, predvsem z rastlinami, do sedaj ni bilo veliko znanega. Zato smo v okviru doktorske disertacije preučevali interakcije med različnimi tipi okoljsko relevantne mikroplastike ter modelno vodno rastlino, malo vodno lečo Lemna minor L., z namenom razvoja fitoremediacijske metode za odstranjevanje mikroplastike iz vodnega okolja. Najprej smo preučevali kratkotrajne (7-dnevne) vplive različnih tipov mikroplastike, med katere smo poleg surove mikroplastike vključili tudi starano mikroplastiko (tj. mikroplastiko, ki je bila predhodno izpostavljena simuliranim okoljskim razmeram) ter mikroplastiko s predhodno adsorbiranimi onesnaževali (kovinskimi nanodelci nTiO2 in nZnO), saj so takšni tipi mikroplastike pogosto najdeni v okolju. Surova mikroplastika je imela minimalni vpliv na malo vodno lečo, saj je na rast korenin vplivala le mikroplastika v obliki fragmentov ter mikroplastika, s katere so se izluževali aditivi. Staranje mikroplastike je sicer bistveno spremenilo fizikalno-kemijske lastnosti mikroplastike, vendar se vpliv na rastlino, v primerjavi s surovo mikroplastiko, ni spremenil. Študij adsorpcije nTiO2 in nZnO na mikroplastiko je pokazal, da sta količina vezanih nanodelcev in moč vezave odvisna od tipa nanodelcev, saj so bile interakcije med mikroplastiko in nTiO2 močnejše kakor med mikroplastiko in nZnO. Kljub razliki v količini in moči vezave pa se vpliv mikroplastike z adsorbiranimi nTiO2 in nZnO na malo vodno lečo ni razlikoval od vpliva surove mikroplastike. V drugem delu smo se osredotočili le na en tip mikroplastike in preučevali dolgotrajne interakcije (12 tednov) z modelno rastlino. Tekom izpostavitve mikroplastika ni imela močnega vpliva na rastlino, saj se je vpliv pokazal le pri rasti korenin, ki pa po 8. tednu ni bil več prisoten, kar kaže na aklimatizacijo rastline. Med poskusom se je tedensko v povprečju na rastlino vezalo 25 % mikroplastike. Sledil je še poskus fitoremediacije in prišli do ugotovitve, da bi se glede na določeno konstanto hitrosti odstranjevanja okoljsko relevantne koncentracije mikroplastike v vodnem okolju pri danih razmerah dalo odstraniti v dveh mesecih. Glede na minimalni vpliv in sposobnost vezave mikroplastike na modelno rastlino lahko sklepamo, da je uporaba fitoremediacije mikroplastike iz vodnega okolja možna, hkrati pa sodi med ekonomsko ugodne, enostavne in okolju prijazne in situ metode. Microplastics, defined as plastic particles from 1 to 1000 µm in size, are currently one of the most widespread pollutants. Despite numerous studies, not much is known about the interactions between microplastics and aquatic organisms, especially plants. Therefore, the aim of the thesis was to investigate the interactions between different types of environmentally relevant microplastics and the model aquatic plant, duckweed Lemna minor, to develop a phytoremediation method to remove microplastics from the aquatic environment. We investigated the short-term (7-day) effects of different types of microplastics, including pristine microplastics, aged microplastics (i.e., microplastics previously exposed to simulated environmental conditions), and microplastics with previously adsorbed pollutants (metal nanoparticles nTiO2 and nZnO), as such types of microplastics are common in the environment. Pristine microplastics had minimal effects on duckweed, as only microplastics in the form of fragments and microplastics from which additives leached affected root growth. Aging significantly changed the physico-chemical properties of the microplastics, but the effects on the plant did not change compared to the pristine microplastics. The study of the adsorption process of nTiO2 and nZnO on microplastics showed that the amount of nanoparticles bound and the binding strength depended on the type of nanoparticles, as the interactions between microplastics and nTiO2 were stronger than between microplastics and nZnO. Despite the differences in the amount and strength of binding, the effects of microplastics with adsorbed nTiO2 and nZnO on duckweed did not differ from the effects of pristine microplastics. In the second part, we focused only on one type of microplastics and studied long-term interactions (12 weeks) with duckweed. During the exposure, microplastics did not have significant effects on the plant, as the effect was only seen in root growth, which was absent after the eighth week of exposure, indicating acclimation of the plant. Furthermore, an average of 25% of the microplastics adhered to the plant per week. Finally, a phytoremediation experiment was conducted, and we concluded that the environmentally relevant concentrations of microplastics in the aquatic environment can be removed within two months under the given conditions. Based on the minimal impact of microplastics and the ability to bind to the plant, we can conclude that the phytoremediation of microplastics from the aquatic environment is possible and it is also a low-cost, simple, and environmentally friendly in situ method.

Namen diplomskega dela je oblikovati moško kolekcijo z izhodiščem v barvanju z naravnimi barvili in rjo ter nastalo kolekcijo predstaviti skozi modni editorial. Teoretični del se prvotno osredinja na naravna barvila in barvanje z rjo. Prvi del teoretičnega dela se navezuje na zgodovino naravnih barvil in njihovo uporabo danes, tehniko barvanja z rjo ter na okoljsko problematiko sintetičnih barvil. Drugi del teoretičnega dela se nanaša na problematiko mikroplastike in oblačila prebivalcev puščav. Eksperimentalni del obsega oblikovanje in izvedbo kolekcije ADAPT 2030, ki zajema pet moških silhuet. Predstavlja koncept kolekcije z njenimi izhodišči, ciljno skupino, razvoj silhuet prek kolažev, izbrane materiale in barvno paleto ter procese uporabljenih barvalnih tehnik. Eksperimentalni del vsebuje tudi prikaz modnih in tehničnih skic kolekcije, realizirana kolekcija oblačil pa je prikazana skozi modni editorial. Končni rezultat diplomskega dela je avtorska kolekcija z naslovom ADAPT 2030, namenjena mladim, umetniškim moškim ustvarjalcem, ki podpirajo trajnostno modo ter si želijo oblačil z unikatnimi barvami in vzorci. The aim of the thesis was to design a men's collection based on natural dyes and rust, and to present the resulting collection through a fashion editorial. The theoretical part focuses primarily on natural dyes and rust dyeing. The first part of the theoretical part relates to the history of natural dyes and their use today, the technique of rust dyeing and the environmental issues of synthetic dyes. The second part of the theoretical part addressess microplastics and the clothing of the desert dwellers. The experimental part consists of the design and implementation of the ADAPT 2030 collection, which comprises five male silhouettes. The concept of the collection with its starting points, the target group, the development of the silhouettes through collages, the chosen materials and colour palette, and the processes of the dyeing techniques used, are presented. The experimental part also includes the presentation of the fashion and technical sketches of the collection, while the realised clothing collection is presented through a fashion editorial. The final result of the thesis is an original collection entitled ADAPT 2030, designed for the young artistic male creatives who support sustainable fashion and desire garments with unique colours and patterns.

Mikroplastični delci so globalni problem, katerega smo se začeli zavedati šele v zadnjem času, zaradi njihove majhnosti, nepravilnih oblik, ter različnih materialnih lastnosti je njihova detekcija zelo problematična in predstavlja svojevrsten izziv. To magistrsko delo v prvem koraku zajema pregled do sedaj uporabljenih tehnologij za detekcijo mikroplastike. V nadaljevanju pa opisuje zasnovo in konstruiranje optičnega merilnega sistema, ki omogoča merjenje delcev mikroplastike v toku vode. Ves postopek je razdeljen na faze, ki zajemajo razčlenitev problema, snovanje idejne zasnove, izdelavo konceptov rešitev in njihovega vrednotenja, izbiro najboljšega koncepta/rešitve, 3-D modeliranje, izbira najprimernejše tehnologije za izdelavo in v zadnji fazi izdelavo merilnega sistema. Izvedena je bila meritev na predpripravljenih vzorcih, ki smo jih po velikosti razdelili na tri podskupine. V zaključku je bila izvedena evaluacija rezultatov ter primerjava med klasično metodo merjenja pod mikroskopom in zasnovanim optičnim sistemom. Microplastic particles have become a global problem, but their small size, irregular shapes, and varying material properties make detection extremely difficult. In this master's thesis, the author presents an overview of technologies currently used for microplastic detection. The thesis then outlines the design and construction of an optical measuring system capable of detecting microplastics in water flow. The process is divided into several phases, including problem analysis, conceptual design, solution concept creation and evaluation, selection of the best concept/solution, 3-D modeling, selection of suitable manufacturing technology, and measuring system production. To test the system, pre-prepared samples were used, divided into three subgroups based on size. Results were evaluated and compared to the classic method of measuring under a microscope. This work represents an important step towards improved detection and monitoring of microplastics, addressing a crucial environmental issue.

Plastiko se vsesplošno uporablja zaradi obstojnosti, nizke cene ter možnosti aplikacije v številnih panogah. Plastika, ki se najpogosteje uporablja, je sestavljena iz polimerov, ki niso biorazgradljivi in je zato izjemno obstojna v okolju, velik delež pa se je izgubi v naravi zaradi nepravilnega odlaganja odpadkov. Predvideva se, da je v okolju 4900 milijonov ton plastičnih odpadkov. Med najbolj razširjeno vrsto plastičnega onesnaženja sodi mikroplastika (MP). Definira se jo kot delce plastike, za katere so značilne dimenzije manjše od 1 mm. Je izredno heterogeno onesnaževalo, saj se razlikuje po velikosti, barvi, specifični gostoti in kemijski sestavi. Delci so izpostavljeni različnim fizikalno kemijskim dejavnikom, ki povzročajo t.i. staranje MP, zaradi česar se ji lastnosti še dodatno spreminjajo. Poleg tega je MP v stiku z naravnimi suspendiranimi delci in organizmi, ki vplivajo na nastanek biofilma na površini MP. Biofilm, ki se tvori na MP je sestavljen iz raznovrstne mikrobne skupnosti heterotrofov, avtotrofov, plenilcev in simbiontov, ki ji rečemo »plastisfera«. Ta združba je distinktivna za MP in se razlikuje od tiste na naravnih substratih. Nastanek biofilma na površini MP vpliva na njeno vertikalno gibanje in dolgoročno distribucijo v vodnem okolju. Poleg tega postane MP, zaradi biofilma in matrice zunajceličnih polimernih snovi lepljiva, kar promovira tvorbo heteroagregatov iz MP in mikrobnih združb. Tvorba agregatov dodatno učinkuje na maso delca in posledično sedimentacijo. Namen magistrske naloge je bil ovrednotiti spremembe lastnosti MP tekom njenega staranja v površinski vodi. MP smo izpostavili simuliranim naravnim razmeram z 12 tedensko inkubacijo v površinski vodi, ki je vsebovala naravno prisotne mikroorganizme. Vsak 2. teden smo preverili količino biofilma, ki se je razvil na MP, količino zunajceličnih polimernih snovi (EPS), aktivnosti ureaz ter koncentracijo klorofilov a in b. Vodo smo vsak teden zamenjali s svežo in jo analizirali (pH, TOC, amonijevi ioni, nitritni ioni, nitratni ioni, fosfatni ioni, kloridni ioni, število mikroorganizmov). Na koncu smo primerjali lastnosti surove MP in starane MP. Določili smo gostoto, število delcev na maso ter adsorpcijo kovin in delce opazovali pod optičnim in vrstičnim elektronskim mikroskopom. Tekom poskusa se je na MP razvil biofilm, ki je MP spremenil lastnosti gostota starane MP je bila večja od surove MP, število delcev starane MP je bilo manjše od števila delcev surove MP ter starana MP je adsorbirala večje količine kovine. MP se torej, ob tvorbi biofilma, spremenijo lastnosti in posledično se spremeni tudi njeno obnašanje in razporeditev v okolju. Plastic is widely used due to its durability, low cost and the possibility of application in many industries. The most frequently used plastic is composed of polymers that are not biodegradable and is therefore extremely persistent in the environment, and a large proportion of it is lost in nature due to improper waste disposal. It is estimated that there are 4900 million tons of plastic waste in the environment. Probably the most widespread type of plastic pollution are microplastics (MP). They are defined as plastic particles with typical dimensions of less than 1 mm. They are an extremely heterogeneous pollutant as they differ in size, colour, specific density and chemical composition. The particles are exposed to various physico chemical factors that cause the so-called aging of MP, causing their properties to change further. In addition, MP are in contact with natural suspended particles and organisms that affect the formation of biofilm on the surface of MP. The biofilm that forms on MP consists of a diverse microbial community of heterotrophs, autotrophs, predators and symbionts, called the “plastisphere”. This community is distinctive for MP and differs from that on natural substrates. The formation of biofilm on the surface of MP affects their vertical movement and long-term distribution in the aquatic environment. In addition, MP become sticky due to the biofilm and the matrix of extracellular polymeric substances, which promotes the formation of heteroaggregates from MP and microbial communities. The formation of aggregates additionally affects the mass of the particle and the resulting sedimentation. The aim of the master’s thesis was to evaluate the changes in MP properties during their aging in surface water. Pristine MP were exposed to simulated natural conditions with a 12 week incubation in surface water containing naturally occurring microorganisms. Every 2 weeks, we checked the amount of biofilm that developed on MP, the amount of extracellular polymeric substances (EPS), the urease activity and the concentration of chlorophylls a and b. The water was replaced with fresh water every week and analysed (pH, TOC, ammonium ions, nitrite ions, nitrate ions, phosphate ions, chloride ions, number of microorganisms). Finally, we compared the properties of pristine MP and aged MP. We determined the density, the number of particles per mass and the adsorption of metals and observed the particles under an optical and scanning electron microscope. During the experiment, a biofilm developed on the MP which changed the properties of MP the density of aged MP was higher than that of pristine MP, the number of particles of aged MP was smaller than the number of particles of pristine MP, and the aged MP adsorbed larger amounts of the metal. Therefore, when a biofilm is formed, MP’s properties change and, consequently, their behaviour and distribution in the environment are altered.

Izraz mikroplastika zajema obširno skupino plastičnih delcev različnih oblik in materialov v velikostih od 1 μm do 1000 μm. Mikroplastika prihaja v okolje iz različnih virov, izmed katerih so med najpomembnejšimi odpadne vode. V odpadnih vodah se lahko na mikroplastiko adsorbirajo različna onesnaževala, med drugim tudi nanodelci. Adsorbirani nanodelci se lahko nato skupaj z mikroplastiko prenašajo prek dolgih razdalj zaradi njene visoke plovnosti. Ker njuna interakcija še ni dobro raziskana, je bil namen diplomskega dela preučiti, kakšen vpliv ima pH na izluževanje nanodelcev adsorbiranih na mikroplastiki. Kot modelno mikroplastiko smo uporabili polietilenske fragmente, ki so zelo razširjeni v vodnem okolju, in nanodelce TiO2 in ZnO, ki sodijo med najpogosteje uporabljene kovinske nanodelce. Izluževanje nanodelcev iz mikroplastike je potekalo pri pH vrednostih 6 in 8. Rezultati so pokazali, da pH nima pomembnega vpliva na desorpcijo in da lahko kinetiko desorpcije opišemo z modelom psevdo-drugega reda. Microplastics are a large group of plastic particles of different shapes and materials, ranging in size from 1 μm to 1000 μm. Microplastics enter the environment from a variety of sources, but one of the most important sources is wastewater. In wastewater, various pollutants, including nanoparticles, can adsorb to microplastics. Microplastics with adsorbed nanoparticles can then be transported on long distances, because microplastics can easily float. As their common fate is not yet well understood, the aim of this thesis was to investigate the effect of pH on the leaching of nanoparticles adsorbed on microplastics. We used polyethylene fragments as a model of microplastics, which are common in the aquatic environment. Nanoparticles used in this study were TiO2 and ZnO because they are one of the most commonly used metal nanoparticles. The leaching of the nanoparticles from the microplastics was carried out at pH values of 6 and 8. The results showed that pH has no effect on desorption and the kinetics of desorption can be described by a pseudo-second order model.

Proizvodnja plastike se iz leta v leto veča in s tem se veča tudi količina odvržene plastike. Le-ta botruje k nastanku mikroplastike. V nalogi smo identificirali koncentracije in vire mikroplastike, predstavili različne metode filtracije, analizirali membransko filtracijo in različne vrste membran ter identificirali trenutno najboljšo tehnologijo. Ugotovili smo, da je učinkovitost membran visoka, vendar odvisna od velikosti in oblike delcev mikroplastike. Potrebne so pogoste menjave membran, saj so le-te so podvržene mašenju in obrabi. Plastic production is increasing yearly and so is the amount of discarded plastic. This contributes to the formation of microplastics. In the final thesis, we identified concentrations and sources of microplastics, presented different filtration methods, analyzed membrane filtration and different types of membranes, and identified the current best technology. We found out that the membranes removal efficiency is high but depends on the size and shape of the microplastic particles. Frequent replacement of the membranes is necessary, since they are subject to fouling and abrasion.

Plastika je zaradi svojih lastnosti izredno uporaben material, ki ga zaradi množične uporabe in nepravilnega ravnanja veliko pride v vodne in kopenske ekosisteme. V zadnjem času je največ pozornosti posvečeno majhnim plastičnim delcem, ki jih imenujemo mikroplastika (< 1 mm). V okolju sta prisotni tako primarna kot sekundarna mikroplastika (< 1 mm). Sekundarna mikroplastika nastane, ko plastika pod vplivom različnih dejavnikov razpada na manjše fragmente. Primarna mikroplastika se veliko uporablja v kozmetiki in produktih za osebno nego, kar je en od razlogov, da lahko pristane v odpadni vodi ter posledično v vodnem ekosistemu. V odpadni vodi se lahko na mikroplastiko adsorbirajo ostala prisotna onesnaževala, med drugimi tudi kovinski nanodelci, ki so prav tako prisotni v kozmetičnih izdelkih. Mikroplastika se lahko obnaša kot vektor za prenos onesnaževal in spremeni njihovo biološko dostopnost in strupenost, s tem pa vpliva na vodne organizme. Zato smo v okviru diplomskega dela proučevali vpliv mikroplastike z adsorbiranimi nanodelci na malo vodno lečo (Lemna minor) in sicer smo določali vpliv na specifično hitrost rasti, vsebnost klorofila a in b, dolžino korenin, določili pa smo tudi količino desorbiranih nanodelcev tekom poskusa. Rezultati so pokazali, da mikroplastika z adsorbiranimi nanodelci TiO2 in ZnO ne vpliva na specifično hitrost rasti in koncentracijo klorofila a. Zaznali smo vpliv na rast korenin ter na koncentracijo klorofila b. Po sedmih dneh inkubacije se je 15,7 % TiO2 in 53,0 % ZnO desorbiralo v vodo. Plastic is an exceptionally useful material, because of its good properties. However, its massive use and improper handling with plastic waste has resulted in plastic pollution of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Recently a lot of attention has been given to small plastic particles called microplastics (< 1 mm). In the environment, both primary and secondary microplastics are present. Secondary microplastics occur when plastics are broken down into smaller fragments due to various environmental factors. On the other hand, primary microplastics are widely used in cosmetics and personal care products and can end up in wastewaters and eventually in the aquatic ecosystem. Other pollutants that are present in wastewater can adsorb on the surface of microplastics, including metal nanoparticles, which are also present in cosmetics. Microplastics can act as a vector for pollutants, altering their bioavailability and toxicity and thus affecting aquatic organisms. In this work we studied the effect of microplastics with adsorbed nanoparticles on duckweed Lemna minor. We studied the impact on the specific growth rate, the chlorophyll a and b contents and root length. We also determined the amount of desorbed nanoparticles during the experiment, The results showed that microplastics with adsorbed TiO2 and ZnO nanoparticles do not affect the specific growth rate and chlorophyll a content. However, we observed inhibition on root length and chlorophyll b content. After the seven-day incubation period 15,7 % and 53,0 % of TiO2 and ZnO, respectively, was desorbed from microplastics.

Uvod: Plastiko danes uporabljamo povsod. Je vsestranski material, ki nudi zaščito, oporo in je gradnik tehnološke opreme. Plastika razpada na manjše delce, t. i. mikroplastiko (MP), pod zunanjimi pogoji ali pa je v tej velikosti že izdelana (primarna MP). Delci MP so v morju še posebej nevarni za vodne organizme in živali, ki se z njimi nehote prehranjujejo. Do sekundarnega zaužitja pa prihaja pri večjih ribah (tudi morskih sesalcih in pticah), ki plenijo organizme z že vsebovanimi delci MP. Za določanje količine delcev MP uporabljamo mikroskopske metode, za določevanje vrste polimera pa infrardečo spektroskopijo s Fourierovo transformacijo (FT-IR), Ramansko spektroskopijo, plinsko kromatografijo z masnim detektorjem (GC-MS), metode termične analize in druge metode. Namen: Preučiti občutljivost dveh detekcijskih metod za določanje MP v ribah in izvesti analizo na realnih vzorcih rib iz Tržaškega zaliva. Metode dela: Primerjali smo dve metodi za določanje delcev MP v okoljskih vzorcih, prvo metodo za določanje MP v morskih ribah, ki temelji na zaznavanju značilnih hlapnih organskih spojin z GC-MS, in drugo, standardno metodo za določanje vrste polimerov s FT-IR spektroskopijo. Rezultati: S preiskovalno metodo z GC MS smo ugotovili, da so hlapne spojine preiskovanih polimerov zaznavne v skupni zmesi polimerov in ribje drobovine za PE, PP, PS in PVC pri najmanjši masi 20 mg posameznega polimera pri tem polimer PET ni zaznaven. V analizi posameznega polimera in ribje drobovine je bila najnižja masa določljivosti dosežena pri polimeru vrste PE, pri masi 2 mg. V realnih vzorcih rib so bili identificirani trije delci MP kot PE, njihova velikost je bila pod 500 µm in masa pod 2 mg, zato smo se odločili, da jih identificiramo z metodo na mikro-FT-IR spektroskopu. Razprava in zaključek: Delce iz realnih vzorcev smo uspešno identificirali s pomočjo mikro-FT-IR spektroskopije. Trdimo lahko, da je metoda z GC-MS uspešna pri določanju delcev MP nad maso 2 mg pri PE in skupno kot zmes polimerov PE, PP, PS in PVC nad maso 20 mg. Preiskovana metoda z GC-MS se bo z nadaljnjimi izboljšavami lahko uporabljala kot alternativna metoda za določanje MP v okoljskih vzorcih, vendar je omejena z minimalno maso vzorca polimera, kar lahko zaobidemo z analizo združenih vzorcev. Introduction: Plastic is widely used everywhere. It is a versatile material, which provides protection and support, and is used as a building block of technological equipment. Plastic degrades into smaller pieces—microplastics (MP)—due to environmental conditions, or it is manufactured in this size—i.e., primary MP. MP particles in the sea are particularly dangerous for sea life and animals that can feed on MP unintentionally. Secondary ingestion is seen in larger fish (also sea mammals and birds) that feed on organisms already containing MP pieces. Microscopic methods are used for determining the quantity of MP particles, and infrared spectroscopy with Fourier transformation (FT-IR), Raman spectroscopy, gas chromatography with mass detector (GC-MS), thermal analysis, and other methods are used for determining the MP polymer types. Purpose: To study the sensitivity of two MP detection methods in fish and to analyse real samples of fish from the Gulf of Trieste. Methods: Two methods for determining MP particles in environmental samples were compared: method one for determining MP particles in sea fish, which is based on detecting characteristic volatile organic compounds with GC-MS and another standard method for determining the polymer type with FT-IR spectroscopy. Results: The GC-MS method of analysis showed that volatile organic compounds in the studied polymers can be detected in the mixture of polymers and fish entrails for PE, PP, PS and PVC at the lowest mass of 20 mg for each polymer. The PET polymer was not detected. When analysing each polymer and fish entrails, the lowest detection mass was seen in the PE polymer at 2 mg. In the real samples of sea fish, three MP particles were determined as PE, their size was under 500 μm and mass under 2 mg. Consequently, we decided to determine the polymer type with the micro-FT-IR spectroscope method. Discussion and conclusion: MP particles from real samples were successfully determined with micro-FT-IR spectroscopy. It can be claimed that the GC-MS method is successful in determining MP particles with a mass of more than 2 mg for PE, and more than 20 mg for a combination of PE, PP, PS and PVC polymers. With further improvements, the GC-MS method of analysis will be used as an alternative method for determining MP in environmental samples it is, however, limited by the lowest mass of the sample polymer, which can be avoided by analysing combined samples.

Plastika ima v industriji pomembno vlogo, zato se njena proizvodnja iz leta v leto povečuje. Pomanjkanje učinkovitih metod za odstranjevanje plastike po uporabi se odraža v čedalje večjem onesnaženju naravnih okolij, kjer zaradi vpliva okoljskih dejavnikov počasi razpada in tako predstavlja glavni vir onesnaženja ekosistemov z mikroplastiko. Organizmi, ki so mikroplastiki izpostavljeni bi lahko imeli povečano tveganje za razvoj bolezenskih stanj. Mikroplastika lahko povzroča fizične poškodbe tkiv prebavne in dihalne poti. Služi lahko tudi kot vektor za prenos ostalih toksičnih onesnažil, ki se iz okolja akumulirajo na njeni površini. Pogosto mikroplastika vsebuje tudi nevarne aditive, ki so ji dodani ob izdelavi. Z analizami proteoma lahko identificiramo tarče toksičnega delovanja na molekularni ravni, vendar pa je takšnih raziskav na področju posledic izpostavljenosti mikroplastiki do danes še zelo malo. V raziskovalni nalogi smo proučevali vpliv mikroplastike na proteom modelne praživali Tetrahymena thermophila. Za ločevanje in identifikacijo proteinov, katerih raven se je ob izpostavitvi glede na kontrolno skupino spremenila, smo uporabili tehniko dvo-dimenzionalne poliakrilamid gelske elektroforeze (2-D PAGE), ki smo jo združili z masno spektrometrijo. Identificirali smo 4 proteine, katerih vsebnost je bila pri izpostavljenih kulturah signifikantno spremenjena glede na kontrolno skupino in ugotovili, da lahko preko slednjih mikroplastika vpliva na številne metabolne procese, kot so transkripcija, regulacija celičnega cikla, segregacija kromosomov, translacija, popravne mehanizme DNA, proces apoptoze in razgradnjo proteinov pri testnem organizmu Tetrahymena thermophila. Plastics represents an important material in modern world and its production is growing every year. The lack of efficient methods for its disposal after is resulting in increasing contamination of the environment where it is subjected to slow degradation under constant changes of the environmental factors. This process results in the production of the most microplastics found in the environment. Organisms that are subjected to microplastic particles may have increased risk for developing health problems, caused by physical damaging of the digestive or respiratory tract tissues. In addition, other toxic chemicals that are present in the environment can accumulate on the surface of the particles which can serve as a vector for their transmission. Microplastics also often contains dangerous additives that are added during the production. Proteome analysis is an important tool for identification of the molecular targets of pollutants. However, very few studies have so far been published on the effects of microplastics at the molecular, especially proteome level. In this research two-dimensional polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (2-D PAGE), coupled with mass spectrometry was used to identify the effects of microplastics exposure on Tetrahymena thermophila proteome. Four differentially expressed proteins were identified after exposing the model organism Tetrahymena thermophila to polyethylen beads. The results revealed that microplastics can affect different metabolic pathways such as transcription, cell cycle regulation, chromosomal segregation, translation, DNA repair mechanisms, apoptosis and protein degradation.

V diplomski nalogi z naslovom Vzroki in posledice neustreznega ravnanja s plastičnimi odpadki je obravnavan problem onesnaževanja okolja s plastiko. V uvodu je predstavljen problem in namen diplomske naloge. Naslednje poglavje vsebuje značilnosti plastike ter njene prednosti in slabosti. Opisane so nekatere najbolj razširjene in uporabne vrste sintetičnih polimerov, dodatki v plastiki in mikroplastika. Predstavljena je tudi plastična embalaža in vrste bioplastike. Tretje poglavje opisuje posledice onesnaževanja okolja s plastiko. Predstavljene so posledice sežiganja odpadne plastike. Podrobno so opisane težave, ki jih povzročajo plastični odpadki v okolju in njihova škodljivost za organizme v morjih in oceanih. Posebno podpoglavje je namenjeno prisotnosti mikroplastike in nanoplastike v hrani, vodi in zraku, ki lahko vpliva na zdravje ljudi. Četrto poglavje vsebuje ukrepe in strategije za zmanjševanje količine plastičnih odpadkov, kot so recikliranje, ločevanje odpadkov, sežiganje in uporaba biološko razgradljive plastike. Posebej je predstavljena Evropska strategija za plastiko. Zadnje poglavje je namenjeno analizi in ugotovitvam raziskave o ozaveščenosti ljudi glede problema plastičnih odpadkov in škodljivosti plastike. Glede na preučeno literaturo so vzroki za dosedanje onesnaženje okolja v desetletjih nepremišljenega ravnanja s plastičnimi odpadki, neustreznem upravljanju na odlagališčih, povečani proizvodnji in raznolikosti plastičnih izdelkov, prenizkem recikliranju, neustreznem ločevanju in odlaganju plastičnih odpadkov. Posledice so vidne v globalnem onesnaženju okolja s plastičnimi odpadki in mikroplastiko, ki predstavljata tveganje za zdravje različnih živali in tudi ljudi. Ukrepi na ravni EU so usmerjeni v ponovno uporabo in recikliranje odpadne plastike, inovativne rešitve in učinkovitejše ozaveščanje javnosti. Rezultati opravljene raziskave kažejo, da je ozaveščenost ljudi o pomenu ločenega zbiranja odpadkov nizka. Osebe, vključene v raziskavo, neustrezno ločujejo plastične odpadke in embalažo. Zavedajo se škodljivosti plastike in menijo, da bi plastično embalažo morala zamenjati biorazgradljiva embalaža. Pripravljeni so se odpovedati izdelkom iz plastike tudi za ceno lastnega udobja. The diploma thesis entitled Causes and Consequences of Improper Management of Plastic Waste deals with the problem of environmental pollution with plastic. The introduction presents the problem and purpose of the diploma thesis. The next section contains the characteristics of plastic and its advantages and disadvantages. Some of the most common and useful types of synthetic polymers, plastic additives and microplastics are described. Plastic packaging and types of bioplastics are also presented. The third chapter describes the consequences of environmental pollution with plastic. The consequences of incineration of waste plastics are presented. The problems caused by plastic waste in the environment and their harmfulness to organisms in the seas and oceans are described in detail. A special subsection is devoted to the presence of microplastics and nanoplastics in food, water and air, which can affect human health. Chapter 4 contains measures and strategies to reduce the amount of plastic waste, such as recycling, waste separation, incineration and the use of biodegradable plastics. The European Plastics Strategy is presented in particular. The last chapter is devoted to the analysis and findings of a research on people's awareness of the problem of plastic waste and the harmfulness of plastic. According to the studied literature, the causes of environmental pollution are decades of reckless plastic waste management, inadequate landfill management, increased production and diversity of plastic products, under-recycling, inadequate separation and disposal of plastic waste. The consequences are visible in the global pollution of the environment with plastic waste and microplastics, which pose a risk to the health of various animals as well as humans. Action at EU level is aimed at reusing and recycling plastic waste, innovative solutions and raising public awareness. The results of the research show that people's awareness of the importance of separate waste collection is low. Persons involved in the survey do not adequately separate plastic waste and packaging. They are aware of the harmful effects of plastic and believe that plastic packaging should be replaced by biodegradable packaging. They are willing to give up plastic products, even at the cost of their own comfort.

V zadnjih desetletjih je vedno več pozornosti namenjeno različnim onesnažilom in njihovim negativnim vplivom na okolje. V diplomski nalogi sem se osredotočila na mikroplastiko in možnosti njenega odstranjevanja iz odpadnih vod z uporabo rastlinskih čistilnih naprav. Mikroplastika so majhni plastični delci velikosti do 1 mm. Njen izvor v odpadnih vodah predstavljajo kozmetični izdelki v obliki kroglic, vlakna, ki se sprostijo pri pranju oblačil ali pa fragmenti zavrženih plastičnih izdelkov. Veliko raziskav se je osredotočilo na ugotavljanje učinkovitosti odstranjevanja mikroplastike iz odpadnih vod na konvencionalnih bioloških čistilnih napravah, medtem ko je področje odstranjevanja mikroplastike iz odpadni vod z uporabo rastlinskih čistilnih naprav še dokaj neraziskano. Na podlagi rezultatov že opravljenih raziskav lahko sklepamo, da so rastlinske čistilne naprave za odstranjevanje mikroplastike kratkoročno zelo učinkovite. V prihodnosti se bo potrebno osredotočiti na določanje dolgoročnih zmogljivosti rastlinskih čistilnih naprav za odstranjevanje mikroplastike ter potenciala za razgradnjo/fragmentacijo mikroplastike pri teh pogojih. Over the past decades more and more attention is paid to pollution and its negative environmental impacts. In the thesis I focused on microplastic and its removal from wastewater by using constructed wetlands. Microplastics are plastic particles smaller than 1 mm. They occur in wastewaters in form of microbeads from cosmetic products, fibres released during washing of synthetic clothes and as fragments from discarded plastic products. Many researches have focused on removal of microplastics from wastewater in conventional biological wastewater treatment plants. However, the removal efficiency of constructed wetlands is understudied. Based on the preliminary results, it can be concluded that constructed wetlands are very effective for the removal of microplastics in the short term. In the future, the focus should be on determining the long-term capacity of constructed wetlands to remove microplastics and the potential for degradation/fragmentation of microplastics under these conditions.

Uvod: Plastika kot vseprisoten material je v okolju izpostavljena vremenskim vplivom, kjer se drobi v manjše delce (< 5 mm), ki jim pravimo mikroplastika. Kmetijska dejavnost (uporaba plastičnih folij, uporaba komposta in odpadnega blata kot gnojila) predstavlja glavni vir vnosa mikroplastike v okolje in talne površine. Mikroplastika v okolju predstavlja onesnaževalo, ki prinaša številna tveganja tudi za zdravje človeka. Za oceno stanja talnega okolja onesnaženosti z mikroplastiko so ključne dobro razvite analitične metode. Namen: Namen magistrske naloge je razvoj metode za ekstrakcijo, kvantifikacijo in identifikacijo mikroplastike iz vzorcev tal. Želeli smo razviti metodo za različne plastične polimere z različno gostoto in za vzorce tal z različno stopnjo organske snovi. Osredotočili smo se na pet najpogostejših polimerov: polietilen, polipropilen, polistiren, polivinil klorid in polietilen tereftalat, ki se pojavljajo v prsti in kompostu ter posledično na kmetijskih površinah. Metode dela: Razvoj metode ekstrakcije je potekal s primerjavo oljne ekstrakcije in metode ločevanja na osnovi gostote. Metodi smo optimizirali za vzorce komposta, ki vsebuje veliko organske snovi. V postopku metode identifikacije mikroplastike s plinsko kromatografijo z masno spektrometrijo smo optimizirali postopek taljenja delcev mikroplastike. Na koncu smo preizkusili uporabljen postopek razvite metode na petih najpogostejših polimerih in vzorcih prsti in komposta. Rezultati: Povprečni izkoristek oljne ekstrakcije je bil 97,8 %, povprečni izkoristek metode ločevanja na osnovi gostote pa 97,5 %. Za ekstrakcijo mikroplastike iz vzorcev komposta smo morali dodati korak oksidacije pred in po ekstrakciji. Povprečni izkoristek razvite metode za ekstrakcijo v preizkusu metode je znašal 97,8 % ± 3,3 %. Za identifikacijo mikroplastike smo morali pri postopku taljenja polimer polietilen tereftalat ločiti od preostalih polimerov. Z metodo identifikacije mikroplastike smo lahko potrdili vseh pet najpogostejših polimerov. Razprava in zaključek: Izkoristki obeh metod so med seboj primerljivi, vendar je metoda ločevanja na osnovi gostote bolj uporabna, hitrejša in lažje izvedljiva za analizo vzorcev komposta. Pri metodi za identifikacijo mikroplastike smo dokazali novo karakteristično spojino za identifikacijo polimera polietilen tereftalat. Metoda za identifikacijo nam omogoča tudi možnost delne kvantifikacije mikroplastike. Nadaljnja optimizacija metode ekstrakcije, kvantifikacije in identifikacije bo v prihodnje omogočila oceno stanja onesnaženosti talnega okolja z mikroplastiko. Introduction: Plastics as an ubiquitous material are exposed to weathering in the environment, where they break down into smaller particles (< 5 mm) called microplastics. Agricultural activity (usage of plastic foils, usage of compost and waste sludge as fertilizer) is the main source of microplastics in the terrestrial environment. Microplastics is a pollutant that poses a great risk to human health. Well-developed analytical methods are crucial for assessment of the microplastic contamination in the terrestrial environment. Purpose: The purpose of the master's thesis was development of a method for extraction, quantification and identification of microplastics from soil. We wanted to develop a method for different density plastic polymers and for soil samples with different levels of organic matter. We focused on the five most common polymers polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyvinyl chloride and polyethylene terephthalate, which occur in soil and compost and consequently on agricultural land. Methods: The development of the extraction method was done by comparing the oil extraction and the density separation method. The methods were optimized for compost samples. In the method of identification of microplastics by gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, we optimized the process of melting microplastics. At the end we tested the method on the five most common polymers and soil and compost samples. Results: The average efficiency of oil extraction was 97.8 % and for density separation method 97.5 %. To extract microplastics from the compost samples, an oxidation step before and after extraction was added. The average efficiency of the developed extraction method was 97.8 % ± 3.3 %. To identify the polyethylene terephthalate, it had to be separated from the remaining polymers during the melting process. All five most common polymers were confirmed with the identification method. Discussion and conclusion: The efficiencies of these methods are comparable, but density separation method is faster and easier to perform for the compost samples. A new characteristic compound for the identification of polyethylene terephthalate has been evident in the identification method. The identification method also showed the possibility of quantification of microplastics. Further optimization of these methods will enable the assessment of microplastics pollution in the environment.

Plastika je postala nepogrešljiv material v našem življenju. Tempo, ki ga diktira svetovna proizvodnja presega naše sposobnosti za odgovorno ravnanje s plastičnimi odpadki, ki pri tem nastajajo. Tako vsakodnevno v naravo zaidejo ogromne količine plastike. Ta razpada na manjše delce, ki jim pravimo mikroplastika. Mikroplastika je v naravnem okolju podvržena številnim fizikalnim in kemijskim dejavnikom, poleg tega pa tako prihaja v stik s prisotnimi mikroorganizmi v okolju. Le-ti na površini mikroplastike tvorijo biofilm, ki še dodatno vpliva na njeno obnašanje v okolju. Delcem, na katerih se naselijo mikroorganizmi, se poveča gostota, kar vpliva na njihovo porazdelitev v vodnem okolju, ter biodostopnost za druge organizme. Prisotnost biofilma vpliva tudi na kroženje nutrientov, strupenost in interakcije z onesnaževali, ki so prisotni v vodi. V okviru eksperimentalnega dela diplomske naloge smo mikroplastiko izpostavili površinski vodi iz okolja in vrednotili razvoj biofilma na njeni površini ter spremembe v lastnostih mikroplastike. Ugotovili smo, da se na njej hitro razvija biofilm. Aktivnost biofilma smo dokazali z določanjem aktivnosti encimov ureaz, fotosintetskega pigmenta klorofila in ekstrahiranih zunajceličnih polimernih snovi. Mikroplastiki se je v 12 tednih izpostavljenosti površinski vodi povečala gostota, poleg tega pa je bil biofilm odgovoren tudi za njeno aglomeracijo. Plastic has become an indispensable material in our lives. The pace dictated by global production exceeds our ability to responsibly handle generated plastic waste. Therefore, enormous amounts of plastics end up in our environment every day, where they break down into smaller particles called microplastics. By entering the environment, microplastics are subject to a number of physical and chemical factors. They also encounter microorganisms, which form a biofilm on a particle surface and further affect behavior of microplastics. The density of particles then increases after biofouling, affecting their distribution in the aquatic environment and their bioavailability to other organisms. The presence of biofilm also affects nutrient flow, toxicity, and interactions with contaminants present in water. In experimental part of the thesis, we exposed microplastics to surface water and evaluated the development of biofilm on its surface, as well as changes in the properties of microplastics. Results showed that living microorganisms can easily colonized microplastics. The viability of the biofilm was demonstrated by the measurement of activity of the urease enzymes, by the determination of the photosynthetic pigment (i.e. chlorophyll) and by analysis of extracted extracellular polymeric substances. After 12 weeks of aging in surface water, the density of microplastics increased and particles started to agglomerate as a consequence of biofilm formation.

Mikroplastika sodi med kompleksne in razširjene polutante, zato njeno obnašanje v okolju težko napovemo. Namen te diplome je bil pregledati literaturo, ki opisuje interakcije mikroplastike z vodnimi rastlinami. Te interakcije so ključne z vidika razvoja fitoremediacijskih tehnologij za odstranjevanje mikroplastike iz vodnega okolja s pomočjo rastlin. Glavna problematika raziskav, ki preučujejo interakcije z vodnimi rastlinami, je ta, da obravnava interakcije mikroplastike le s posamezno rastlino. Celostnega oz. sistematičnega pregleda interakcij zaenkrat še ni. V diplomskem delu so interakcije predstavljene glede na porazdelitev mikroplastike po vodnem stolpcu – interakcije s plavajočimi rastlinami (Lemna minor, Salvinia cucullata) in s potopljenimi rastlinami (Myriophyllum spicatum L., Elodea sp. in Utricularia vulgaris). Zaznane interakcije pri teh rastlinah so elektrostatske – vodikove vezi med mikroplastiko in celulozno steno rastline. Pri mesojedi rastlini Utricularia vulgaris so bile za akumulacijo mikroplastike odgovorne njene pasti za lovljenje plena, kar nakazuje pomembnost rastlinske morfologije pri interakcijah z mikroplastiko. Na koncu diplomskega dela so predstavljene interakcije z morsko travo Thalassia testudinum in njena vloga pri prenosu mikroplastike med trofičnimi nivoji. Ugotovljeno je bilo, da se mikroplastika akumulira na listih in zaradi preraščanja z biofilmom ostane močno vezna na rastlini. Sposobnost vezave mikroplastike na rastline omogoča njeno odstranjevanje iz vodnega okolja (fitoremediacija). Microplastics are one of the most complex and ubiquitous pollutants, therefore, it is difficult to predict its behaviour in the environment. The aim of this diploma thesis was to review the literature describing the interactions of microplastics with aquatic plants. These interactions play an important role in the development of phytoremediation strategies for removal of microplastics from aquatic ecosystems. The main problem with research focused on interactions with aquatic plants is that they address interactions only with an individual plant. Systematic review of interactions is currently lacking. In this diploma thesis, the interactions are presented according to the distribution in the water column – floating plants (Lemna minor, Salvinia cucullata), submerged plants (Myriophyllum spicatum L., Elodea sp. and Utricularia vulgaris). Observed interactions in these plants were electrostatic – hydrogen bond between the microplastic and the cellulose wall of the plant. In the carnivorous plant Utricularia vulgaris, prey traps were responsible for accumulation of microplastics, suggesting the importance of plant morphology in study of interactions. Interactions of microplastics with seagrass Thalassia testudinum and its role in microplastic transfer between trophic levels are presented. It was found that microplastics accumulate microplastics on leaves through biofilms development. Therefore, plants have high potentials for phytoremediation due to strong interactions with microplastics.

Plastika, oziroma sintetični polimeri, v današnjem svetu predstavljajo enega izmed najbolj razširjenih materialov, po drugi strani pa enega izmed najhitreje rastočih problemov na Zemlji. Zaradi izredno široke uporabe predstavlja velik delež odpadkov na zemlji. Plastični odpadki so praktično inertni in se kopičijo v vedno večjih količinah. Plastični polimeri kažejo strukturne podobnosti z marsikaterimi naravnimi substrati, ki predstavljajo vir hranil za različne organizme. Organizmi, ki se hranijo na podobnih substratih imajo posledično ustrezne encime za razgradnjo teh naravnih polimerov. Prav na te encime in organizme lahko računamo, ko iščemo ustrezne organizme, ki bi bili sposobni razgrajevati plastične polimere. Bolj kot je primarni substrat podoben nekemu tipu plastike, bolj bo razgradnja uspešna. Vendar vse ni tako preprosto, saj plastika in njej dodani aditivi predstavljajo za organizem toksičen substrat, hidrofobna površina še dodatno ovira pritrditev mikro-organizmov na površino. Tako bomo v prihodnosti skušali najti uspešno kombinacijo fizikalnih dejavnikov (oz. načinov predobdelave) in bioloških sistemov, ki bodo skupaj uspešno premostili vse ovire, ki jih predstavlja prehranjevanje s plastiko kot primarnim substratom. Cilj v prihodnosti je preprečiti akumulacijo plastičnih polimerov v okolju in jih ponovno vrniti v kroženje snovi v naravi. Synthetic polymers, also known as plastic, are one of the most widespread materials in the world today and on the other hand, one of the fastest growing problems on Earth. Due to their extremely wide use, they represent a large proportion of waste on earth. Plastic waste is practically inert and accumulates in ever-increasing quantities. Plastic polymers show structural similarities with many natural substrates, which are a source of nutrients for various organisms. Organisms that feed on similar substrates consequently have the appropriate enzymes to degrade these natural polymers. It is these enzymes and organisms that we can count on when looking for suitable organisms that would be able to degrade plastic polymers. The more the primary substrate is similar to some type of plastic, the more successful the decomposition will be. However, this is not as simple as it sounds, because not only do plastic and its added additives represent a toxic substrate for the organism, but the hydrophobic surface further hinders the attachment of micro-organisms to the surface. Thus, in the future we will try to find a successful combination of physical factors (or methods of pre-treatment) and biological systems, which will together successfully overcome all the obstacles posed by eating plastic as the primary substrate. The goal in the future is to prevent the accumulation of plastic polymers in the environment and return them to the circulation of substances in nature.

Plastično onesnaževanje je okoljsko globalni problem, ki vse bolj narašča. V zadnjem desetletju pa je v središču znanstvenega in javnega interesa vpliv mikroplastike na okolje in zdravje živali ter ljudi. Mikroplastika so majhni plastični delci s premerom manjšim od 5 mm različnih vrst, oblik, barv in izvornih virov (primarna, sekundarna). Čistilne naprave imajo znaten vpliv na kopičenje mikroplastike v sladkovodnih okoljih. Mikroplastika lahko deluje kot vektor za razna obstojna organska onesnaževala, ki imajo potencial biomagnifikacije preko prehranjevalne verige, in kot vektor za raznovrstne mikrobne skupnosti. Mikroplastika predstavlja ekotoksikološko in ekološko tveganje za vodne ekosisteme. Številni avtorji poročajo o vplivu mikroplastike na najraznovrstnejše sladkovodne organizme od alg, nevretenčarjev do izbranih ribjih vrst in o prenosu mikroplastike preko različnih trofičnih nivojev ter kopičenju v različnih organskih sistemih. Mikroplastika ima negativne posledice na organizme, kot so poškodbe in raztrganine telesnih tkiv, zaviranje rasti, stradanje, oviranje delovanja imunskega sistema, spremembe v transkriptomu in metabolomu, vedenjske in reproduktivne motnje, desorbcija obstojnih organskih onesnaževal, zmanjšanje sposobnosti preživetja in celo smrt. Plastic pollution is an increasing global environmental problem. In the last decade, the impacts of microplastics on the environment and to animal and human health have been at the centre of scientific and public interest. Microplastics are small plastic particles with a diameter of less than 5 mm of various types, shapes, colours and sources (primary, secondary). Wastewater treatment plants have a significant impact on the accumulation of microplastics in freshwater environments. Microplastics act as vectors for various persistent organic pollutants that have the potential for biomagnification through the food chain and as vectors for diverse microbial communities. Microplastics pose an ecotoxicological and ecological risk to aquatic ecosystems. Numerous studies report the impact of microplastics on a wide variety of freshwater organisms from algae, invertebrates to fish species, and on the transmission of microplastics across different trophic levels and accumulation in different organ systems. Microplastics can have harmful effects on organisms such as injuries and lacerations of body tissues, growth inhibition, starvation, immune response alterations, transcriptional and metabolic changes, behavioural and reproductive disorders, desorption of persistent organic pollutants, reduced viability and even death.

Zaradi vedno pogostejše proizvodnje in uporabe plastike, jo vedno več najdemo tudi v okolju. Eden izmed večjih problemov je mikroplastika. To so plastični delci, ki so manjši od 1 mm. V okolje pridejo po različnih poteh, največkat pa je to zaradi nepravilnega ravnanja z odpadki ali pa izpuščanja odpadnih vod v morja in površinske vode. Problem pa niso samo delci in njihov mehanski vpliv, ampak tudi snovi, ki se iz mikroplastike izlužujejo. Te snovi so lahko sestavni del plastike, lahko pa so snovi/onesnaževala, ki so se adsorbirala na mikroplastiko po vstopu v okolje. Namen raziskave je bilo ugotoviti ali se iz različnih tipov mikroplastike izlužujejo snovi, ki vplivajo na hitrost rasti male vodne leče, dolžino korenin in vsebnost klorofila v listih. Imeli smo pet različnih tipov mikroplastike (mikroplastika ekstrahirana iz kozmetike, sintetična vlakna, plastična vrečka, zmlet bakelit in delce plastenke) ter naravne delce – bukov prah. Rezultati so pokazali, da izlužki iz različnih vrst mikroplastik nimajo vpliva na hitrost rasti in vsebnost klorofilov male vodne leče, le izlužki iz bakelita so povzročili zmanjšanje dolžine korenin. Due to increasing production and usage of plastic, the amount of plastic in the environment grows every year. One of the biggest problems connected to plastic waste is generation of microplastics. This are plastic particles, smaller than 1 mm. They can enter the environment through a variety of pathways, however the most common are inappropriate waste treatment or discharging wastewaters into oceans and freshwaters. The problem is not just microplastic particles and their mechanical effect, but also substances that can be leached out from microplastics. These are different chemicals, that are part of plastic structure or substances that have been adsorbed on them. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of microplastics leachates on growth of duckweed Lemna minor, length of their roots and content of chlorophyll. Five different microplastics (microplastics from personal care product, synthetic fibre, plastic bag, ground bakelite and plastic bottle) as well as natural particles (beech saw dust) were tested. None of the microplastics leachates had impact on specific growth rate and chlorophyll content, however leachates from bakelite had impact on the length of the roots.

Glavni namen mojega diplomskega dela je bilo oblikovanje trajnostne kolekcije z naslovom E2DDF3 z izhodišči v cirkusu, problematiki mikroplastike in tehniki krojenja brez odpadka (ang. zero waste). Kolekcijo sem želel predstaviti s pomočjo video predstavitve in virtualnega prostora. Cirkus je poln zanimivih likov, ki za svoje nastope potrebujejo določena oblačila. Ti imajo pri izbiri oblačil različne želje in zahteve, enako pa velja tudi za ljudi v vsakodnevnem življenju. S svojo kolekcijo sem želel skupini cirkusantov omogočiti večji nabor možnih kostumov. Teoretični del diplome se začne s predstavitvijo problematike mikroplastike v morju in z raziskavo, kakšen vpliv ima ta na okolje. Prav tako so opisani začetki cirkusa, njegov razvoj in pomembne osebe v njegovi zgodovini. Opisani so tudi vsi značilni cirkuški liki, njihov izgled in to, kakšna oblačila potrebujejo. Kot trajnostno nadgradnjo sem v svoje delo vključil še analizo življenjskega sloga brez odpadka in njegove uporabe v praksi ter podrobno predstavitev načina krojenja brez odpadkov. Praktični del vključuje oblikovanje in izvedbo trajnostne kolekcije E2DDF3, ki zajema trinajst silhuet, od katerih sem realiziral tri. Predstavljen je razvoj koncepta in razmišljanje o vzdušju kolekcije, nato nadaljujem z razvojem silhuet in vzorcev, izbiro materialov, modnimi skicami celotne kolekcije in tehničnimi skicami izbranih silhuet. Na koncu praktičnega dela je povzet razvoj koncepta za predstavitev kolekcije in potek izvedbe le-te. Končni rezultat je trajnostna kolekcija E2DDF3, predstavljena v video predstavitvi in virtualnem prostoru. The main aim of my diploma thesis was to create a sustainable fashion collection entitled E2DDF3, the starting point of which was the circus aesthetic, the issue of microplastics pollution and the zero waste technique of pattern-making. I wanted to present the collection in video form and with the help of virtual space. The circus is full of interesting characters that need specific clothing for their performances. They all have different wishes and needs when it comes to clothing selection, and the same is true for people going about their day-to-day lives. I wanted to provide a wider, more diverse selection of garments for circus performers. The theoretical part of the thesis presents the issue of microplastics found in oceans and discusses what consequences such pollution has on the environment. It also describes the origins of the circus, its development and important people in its history. I also present the main circus archetypes, focusing on their appearance and their clothing needs. Wanting to add the aspect of sustainability to my project, I analyse the zero waste lifestyle and its practical application, and include a detailed description of the zero waste technique of pattern-making. The practical part of my work includes the process of designing and then producing my undergraduate fashion collection E2DDF3. The collection includes thirteen silhouettes, three of which have been realised. This part of the thesis includes: concept development, reflection on the atmosphere of the collection, silhouette and pattern development, choice of materials, fashion sketches of the whole collection and technical sketches of chosen silhouettes. In the concluding part, I shortly describe how I developed the concept for the presentation of my collection, and how it was carried out. The final product is the sustainable fashion collection E2DDF3, presented in video form and set in virtual space.

S povečevanjem proizvodnje plastike se veča tudi količina le-te v vodnih ekosistemih. Plastika lahko pod vplivom različnih dejavnikov razpada v manjše fragmente, imenovane mikroplastika. V vodnem okolju je poleg mikroplastike prisotnih še veliko drugih organskih in anorganskih onesnažil. Ene od najbolj problematičnih anorganskih onesnaževal so kovine, ki prihajajo v okolje iz različnih virov npr. iz industrije, kmetijstva, prometa. Ko se kovine znajdejo v istem okolju kot mikroplastika, se začnejo njihove medsebojne interakcije. Eden prevladujočih procesov na tem področju je adsorpcija kovin na mikroplastiko. Na proces adsorpcije poleg lastnosti mikroplastike in kovin vplivajo tudi drugi fizikalni parametri, kot sta npr. pH in slanost. The increased production of plastics led to a high occurrence of plastics in the environment. Due to various environmental factors, plastics can disintegrate into smaller fragments called microplastics. Besides microplastics, many other organic and inorganic pollutants can be found in the water environment. Metals are among the most important inorganic pollutants and enter the aquatic environment from various sources e.g. agriculture, industry, traffic. When metals and microplastics coexist in aquatic environments, it is inevitable that they will interact. One of the mechanisms that prevails in such situations is metal adsorption on microplastics. Besides the properties of both microplastics and metals, other physical parameters such as pH and salinity also influence the adsorption process.

Uvod: Plastični materiali, ki se uporabljajo v kmetijstvu za različne namene (talne plastične folije, cevi za namakanje, vrvice) s časom razpadajo na delce plastike, manjše od 5 mm – tako imenovano mikroplastiko. Mikroplastika se lahko prenaša iz čistilnih naprav na kmetijske površine z uporabo odpadne vode in aktivnega blata. S tem lahko mikroplastika deluje kot vektor za adsorbirana onesnaževala, prisotna v čistilnih napravah. V kolikor se to blato uporablja na kmetijskih površinah, pa predstavlja mikroplastika sestavljeno onesnaževalo, ki lahko na svoji površini adsorbira še kmetijska onesnaževala, v tem primeru pesticide. Namen: Namen magistrske naloge je razviti metodo za preučevanje adsorpcije izbranih onesnaževal – pesticidov, ki se uporabljajo na kmetijskih površinah – na mikroplastiko, ki je prisotna v odpadni vodi in aktivnem blatu iz čistilnih naprav. Le-tega se lahko dodaja tudi kmetijskim površinam, saj je bogato s hranili. Zanimalo nas je, kakšen vpliv ima topnost pesticidov v vodi na adsorpcijo, kako vpliva mešanje raztopine, kakšno vlogo ima odpadna voda in kako vpliva delež mikroplastike na zadrževanje pesticida v tleh. Metode dela: Raziskovanje adsorpcije dveh pesticidov z različno topnostjo v vodi – klorantraniprola in klorpirifosa – je potekalo v dveh različnih vodnih medijih: deionizirani vodi in v umetno pripravljeni odpadni vodi. Preučevali smo zadrževanje klorpirifosa v zemlji glede na količino dodane mikroplastike. Analiza vzorcev je potekala s tekočinskim kromatografom visoke ločljivosti. Rezultati: V deionizirani vodi do adsorpcije izbranih pesticidov ni prišlo, zato nismo mogli ovrednotiti vpliva topnosti pesticidov, vpliva mešanja in svetlobe. V umetni odpadni vodi se dobro vodotopen klorantraniprol ni adsorbiral, medtem ko se je klorpirifos vezal. Pri poskusu z zemljo smo ugotovili, da delež polietilena nizke gostote (light density polyethylene – LDPE) ne vpliva na adsorpcijo klorantraniprola, saj ni bilo statistično značilne razlike med posameznimi odstotki dodanega LDPE. Adsorpcija klorantraniprola je odvisna od vsebnosti polipropilena (PP). Rezultati kažejo, da je bistvena razlika v zadrževanju pesticida v zemlji, če je PP prisoten ali če ga sploh ni. Razprava in zaključek: Z raziskavo smo ugotovili, da je adsorpcija v vodi slabotopnega pesticida večja in da ima mešanje bistven vpliv na adsorpcijo. Z mešanjem je bila v naših poskusih adsorpcija pesticidov manjša. Rezultati naše raziskave lahko pripomorejo k oceni tveganja sočasne izpostavljenosti pesticidom in mikroplastiki. Ker je področje dela novo, je naloga razvojne narave in prinaša pomembne zaključke in podlage za nadaljnje raziskovanje tematike. Introduction: Plastic materials are used in agriculture for various purposes (flooring films, irrigation tubes, cords). With time they eventually decompose into smaller particles less than 5 mm. They become the so-called microplastics. Microplastics (MPs) can be transported from wastewater treatment plants to agricultural land using wastewater or/and activated sludge. This allows the microplastics to act as a vector for the adsorbed pollutants present in the treatment plants. Due to the use of pesticides, which play an important role in the control of pests and diseases on agricultural land, microplastics are further exposed to the adsorption of pesticides. Purpose: The purpose of the master's thesis was the development of the method for following the adsorption of selected pollutants - pesticides, commonly used on agricultural land, onto microplastics, which is often present in waste waters and activated sewage sludge which is landfilled. We were following the solubility of pesticides in waters containing MPs including changable parameters: type of pesticide, its adsorption, the effect of mixing solutions, exposure to artificial wastewater, and finally the influence of pesticide retention on soil containing microplastics. Methods: The adsorption of two pesticides with different water solubility - chlorantraniprol and chlorpyrifos - was investigated in two different aqueous media: deionized water and artificially prepared waste water. We studied the retention of chlorpyrifos in the soil with respect to the amount of microplastics. The concetration of pesticides was defined applying a high-performance liquid chromatograph. Results: The adsorption of the selected pesticides did not occur in deionized water, so any conclusion was possible regarding the effects of solubility, mixing and light/darkness. In artificial wastewater, well-soluble chlorantraniprole was not adsorbed on MPs while chlorpyrifos was. In the soil experiment, we found that the light density polyethylene (LDPE) did not retained chlorantraniprole, since there was any statistically significant difference between batches. Whereas, the adsorption of chlorantraniprole depends on the content of polypropilene PP, and we found a statistical significant difference between batches containing different percentage of PP. Discussion and conclusion: The study confirmed that the adsorption of less soluble pesticide on MPs is higher and it was proven that the effect of stirring is an important parameter. The results of our research can help to assess the risk of concurrent exposure to pesticides and micro-plastics. As the area of work is new, it is more of development-nature oriented and it brings important conclusions and bases for further research into the topic.

Mikroplastika je delec, ki je majnši od 5 mm in se sprošča v okolje zgolj kot posledica človeškega delovanja. Eden izmed načinov, da pot mikroplastike v okolje preprečimo, je uporaba čistilnih naprav. Čistilne naprave imajo zelo visoko učinkovitost odstranjevanja mikroplastike, vendar pa se še veliko delcev sprosti v okolje. Največ mikroplastike pride v odpadno vodo iz izdelkov za osebno nego (mikrozrnca v pilingu, zobna pasta) in s pranjem sintetičnih oblačil. Ko je mikroplastika v vodnih ekosistemih, jo lahko zaužijejo različni organizmi in posledično na njih mikroplastika negativno vpliva. Mikroplastika se lahko tudi adsorbira na organizme, to je predvsem težava pri mikroplastiki z nizko gostoto, ki plava na vodi in lahko vpliva na plavajoče rastline. Ena izmed njih je tudi mala vodna leča (Lemna minor). Pri eksperimentalnem delu smo preverjali, kako prisotnost mikroplastike vpliva na rast listov in korenin male vodne leče. Uporabili smo vzorce iz treh različnih plastičnih izdelkov (koščki vrečke, mikroplastika iz kozmetike, zmlet bakelit) in jih skupaj s kontolnimi vzorci za sedem dni postavili v inkubator. S štetjem korenin in listov ter merjenjem dolžine korenin smo prišli do zaključka, da mikroplastika negativno vpliva na rast listov in korenin rastline. Microplastics are any type of plastic particle that is less than 5 millimeters in length and it is released into the environment only as a result of the human behaviour. One of the ways to prevent the microplastics entering freshwaters is the use of wastewater treatment plants. They are highly efficient, but a lot of particles are still released into the environment. Most of the microplastics released into wastewaters are from personal care products (microbeads in peeling, toothpaste) and washing of synthetic clothes. When microplastics enter aquatic ecosystems, it can be ingested by various organisms and have negative impact on them. Microplastics can be also adsorbed on organisms, which is the major issue for low-density microplastics floating on the water surface and affecting floating plants. One of them is also common duckweed (Lemna minor). In the experimental work, we examined how the presence of microplastics affects the growth of the leaves and roots of the common duckweed. We prepared samples from three different types of plastisc (plastic bag, microplastics from cosmetics, shredded bakelite) and placed them together with the control samples in the incubator for seven days. The counting of roots and leaves and the measuring of the roots has led to the conclusion that microplastics negatively affects growth of roots and leaves.

V komunalni odpadni vodi je vedno večja prisotnost mikroplastike. Ta se med čiščenjem koncentrira na čistilni napravi, kar nalaga komunalnim čistilnim napravam veliko odgovornost koliko mikroplastike se izpusti nazaj v okolje in koliko se je zadrži ter kar se z zdržano mikroplastiko zgodi. V diplomskem delu smo s pomočjo postopkov filtracije, kemijske oksidacije, usedanja in dekantiranja izolirali mikroplastiko iz vodnih vzorcev ter vzorcev blata. Delce mikroplastike smo preučili pod optičnim mikroskopom ter jih karakterizirali z infrardečo spektroskopijo. S pomočjo infrardeče spektroskopije smo določili prisotnost značilnih funkcionalnih skupin v vzorcu mikroplastike, posnete spektre smo primerjali z referenčnimi spektri različnih polimernih materialov z znano strukturo. Določili smo tudi mase trdnih snovi po dveh filtracijah vzorcev vode in blata, ter določili uspešnost kemijske oksidacije organskih snovi. There is a growing presence of microplastics in municipal wastewater. During the cleaning process, it concentrates at the sewage treatment plant, which imposes a great responsibility on municipal sewage treatment plants on how much microplastics is released back into the environment and how much is retained and what happens with the lasting microplastics. In the Bachelor's degree, we islated microplastics from aqueous and sludge samples by filtration, chemical oxidation, deposition and decantation processes. Microplastics particles were examined under an optical microscope then we recorded infrared spectres, which were the basis for chemical identification. The presence of typical functional groups in the microplastic samples were determined by infrared spectroscopy. Recorded spectra were compared with the reference spectra of various polymeric materials with known structure. We also determined the masses of solids after two filtrations of water and sludge samples, and determined the success of chemical oxidation of organic matter.

V okviru magistrskega dela smo se osredotočili na postojnsko in škocjansko območje, kjer so bila opravljena vzorčenja ponikalnic Pivke in Reke z delom njunih porečij ter jamami, ki so z rekama povezane. Vzorčenja smo opravili v površinskem toku obeh ponikalnic, iztoku iz čistilne naprave v Postojni in Ilirski Bistrici, v različnih vodnih telesih v jamah (ponvicah, lužah in podzemeljskem toku ponikalnic) ter deževnici na obeh območjih. V okolici Postojne smo vzorčili izvir Malni, ki celotno Pivško kotlino oskrbuje s pitno vodo, in površinski tok reke Unice na Planinskem polju. Na škocjanskem območju smo vzorčili iztok iz smetišča Globovnik pri Ilirski Bistrici, umetno jezero Mola, izvire Timave in izvir Brojenca, ki se neposredno izlivajo v Jadransko morje. Kjer je bilo mogoče, smo odvzeli tudi vzorce sedimenta. Skupno je bilo z obeh območij zbranih 58 vzorcev vode in 29 vzorcev sedimenta. Izmed vseh 87 vzorcev je bila mikroplastika prisotna v 31 vzorcih – 26 je bilo vodnih vzorcev, mikroplastiko pa je vsebovalo tudi 5 vzorcev sedimenta. Vzorci sedimenta z mikroplastiko so bili najdeni izključno na škocjanskem območju. Mikroplastika je bila najdena tudi v vzorcih deževnice. This master’s thesis is focused on the Postojna and Škocjan regions with two sinking rivers Pivka and Reka. Microplastic sampling was conducted in their wider drainage basins and in the caves that are connected to each sinking river. Samples of surface streams (Pivka, Reka), of the discharge from wastewater treatment plants in Postojna and Ilirska Bistrica, of different water bodies in caves (natural pools, puddles and underground river), and of rainfall were analysed. The Malni Spring in the Postojna region, which is the main source of drinking water for the entire Pivka Valley, and the surface stream of the Unica River were sampled. In the Škocjan region, sampling took place at the landfill leachate discharge near Ilirska Bistrica (Globovnik), artificial Lake Mola, and springs of Timavo and Brojenca, that which discharge directly into the Adriatic Sea. Where it was possible, samples of sediment were taken. In total, 58 water samples and 29 sediment samples from both regions were analysed. Out of 87 samples, microplastics were found in 31 samples, 26 of which were water samples and 5 were sediment samples. Sediment samples with microplastics were found only in the Škocjan region. Microplastic was present also in rain water samples.

Zaradi vse večje svetovne potrošnje, kot odpadek konča vse več embalažne in druge plastike. Ta razpade na mikroplastiko, ki vstopa v naravni cikel in prehransko verigo, transport pa se pogosto vrši po vodotokih do morja. Preučevanje transporta zahteva razumevanje širjenja, zgostitev in razpršitev takšnih delcev v vodnih masah zaradi tokov, kar simuliramo z matematičnimi modeli. Ena od metod v uporabi je metoda sledenja delcev. Z ustreznimi podatki o hitrostnih poljih ob različnih meteoroloških dogodkih lahko z modelom vnaprej izračunamo gibanje delcev. Uporabili smo model NAFTA3d, različico nadgrajeno za nevtralno in negativno plovne delce. Opazovali smo premikanje in koncentracije diskretnih delcev zaradi tokov. Pri simulacijah brez meteorološkega ekstrema se je onesnaženje gibalo s cirkulacijo po vsem Tržaškem zalivu in doseglo hrvaško Istro ter slovensko morje. Bolj podrobno smo opazovali gibanje pozitivno plovnih delcev v primeru izlitja z reko Sočo v Tržaški zaliv ob vetrovnem ekstremu. Pozitivno plovni delci so se s tokovi pretežno gibali proti jugu ob italijanski obali. Iz izvedenih simulacij smo z grafičnimi prikazi ponazorili gibanje diskretnih delcev. Nadaljnje raziskovanje tokov v polzaprtih in zaprtih morjih je pomembno za poznavanje vseh možnih poti onesnaženja ter z vidika varnosti in hitrega ukrepanja ob nevarnih izlitjih in nesrečah. Due to the increasing global consumption, more and more packaging and other plastics are ending up as waste. This breaks down to microplastics, entering the natural cycle and food chain, and is often transported by rivers to the sea. Research on microplastics transport requires understanding of spreading and dispersion of such particles due to currents, simulated using mathematical models. One of the methods applied is the particle tracking method. By using relevant data on velocity fields in various meteorological conditions, we can simulate particle motion in advance. We applied the model NAFTA3d, upgraded for neutrally buoyant and negative bouyant particles. We observed motion and concentration of discrete particles due to circulation. In simulations without meteorological extremes, pollution moves due to the circulation throughout the Gulf of Trieste and can reach Croatia's Istria and the Slovenian sea. In detail, we observed motion of the floating particles inflow with the Soča River into the Gulf of Trieste in extreme wind conditions. Positively buoyant particles were mainly transported towards the south along the Italian coast. Graphic depiction of simulation results enabled us to illustrate motion of discrete particles. Further research on circulation in semi-closed and closed seas is important for understanding possible contamination pathways, as well as in terms of safety and rapid response in case of hazardous discharges and accidents.

Osrednja tema naše raziskave je bila plastika, ki pod različnimi pogoji razpade na delce manjše od 5 mm, t.j. mikroplastika. Mikroplastiko lahko pridobimo v obliki vlaken iz oblačil, kot delce iz kozmetičnih proizvodov, kot stranski proizvod večjih plastičnih delov ipd. V nalogi smo želeli proučiti, ali ima trenutna koncentracija mikroplastike v okolju vpliv na kopenske organizme, v našem primeru na kopenske rake enakonožce, vrste Porcellio scaber. Predvidevali smo, da ima mikroplastika vpliv na prehranjevanje, saj se kopiči v črevesju, s tem pa vpliva tudi na energetske rezerve v prebavni žlezi (hepatopankreas). Živali smo izpostavili hrani kontaminirani z mikroplastiko. Izpostavitev je trajala 14 dni pod standardnimi laboratorijskimi pogoji. Uporabili smo okoljsko relevantne koncentracije mikroplastike v kompostu (4 mg mikroplastike/g suhe snovi). Testirali smo 3 vrste plastike: izolirano iz kozmetičnega pripravka pri dveh različnih frakcijah in izolirano iz PVC vrečke. Analiza je pokazala, da testirane koncentracije mikroplastike niso imele vpliva na prehranjevanje in energetske rezerve testnih živali po 14 dneh izpostavitve. Predlagamo nadaljnje raziskave z večjimi koncentracijami mikroplastike ter daljšimi časi izpostavitve. The main focus of this research was microplastic, the small plastic particles less than than 5 mm in diameter. Microplastics can also be obtained directly in the form of fibers from washing, as particles from cosmetic products or as by-product of larger plastic parts. In our thesis we wanted to prove, that the current concentration of microplastics in the environment (compost heap) has an impact on terrestrial organisms, in this case terrestrial isopod crustaceans, Porcelio scaber. We hypothesised, that microplastics would have an impact on feeding, as it acumulates in the gut. We also anticipated that this would reflect in altered digestive gland (hepatopancreas) energy reserves in terms of lipids, proteins and carbohydrates. Animals were exposed to food, contaminated with microplastics and maintained properly in Petri dish. Exposure lasted 14 days under standard laboratory conditions. We used environmentally relevant concentrations of microplastics in compost heap (4 mg microplastics/g dry food). We tested three types of plastics: isolated from the cosmetic product in two different fractions and isolated from PVC bags. Analysis showed that the tested concentrations of microplastics had no effect on feeding and energy reserves after 14 days of exposure. We suggest further research with larger concentrations of microplastics and prolonged exposure times.