Problems of providing Kharkiv with ecologically safe recreational zone based on the Studenok river.

In the course of intensive urbanization of the territories, water objects' condition and characteristics in respective recreational areas are of particular value in terms of sustainable development maintenance. Surface drains and rain waters mainly pollute water objects which are located within the city. Besides, water objects' ecological condition is negatively affected by authorized and unauthorized industrial wastewater discharge. Pollution of the aquatic environment and bottom sediments by microplastic particles poses an extremely high environmental risk due to the slow degradation of this material and its high permeability to biological objects, making for unpredictable negative consequences. This study investigates the aquatic environment's current condition using the example of the Studenok river (Kharkiv, Ukraine) located on the territory assigned for recreational use; the aquatic environment's current condition was investigated. An experimental study of microplastic content in bottom sediments is carried out. The prospects for riverbed restoration and recreation zone arrangement within the studied object is studied as well. Studies of the aquatic environment have revealed areas of increased pollution of the Studenok river and have identified some of its anthropogenic sources. Studies of bottom sediments for microplastic concentration have shown a high level of this pollutant - 318.6-1709.2 mg/kg. To create a recreational area at the study site, further monitoring and detailed identification of pollution sources and ecological rehabilitation of the water reservoir and its underground sources are needed which supply it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]