Understanding and addressing microplastic pollution: Impacts, mitigation, and future perspectives

• Published in: Journal of contaminant hydrology Vol. 266; p. 104399
• Main Authors: Debnath, Rajesh, Prasad, Gora Shiva, Amin, Adnan, Malik, Monisa M., Ahmad, Ishtiyaq, Abubakr, Adnan, Borah, Simanku, Rather, Mohd Ashraf, Impellitteri, Federica, Tabassum, Ifra, Piccione, Giuseppe, Faggio, Caterina
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: Netherlands Elsevier B.V 01.09.2024
• Subjects: Degradation; Ecosystem; Environmental Monitoring; Freshwater; Marine; Micro-particles; Microplastics; Microplastics - analysis; Microplastics - toxicity; Pollution; Water Pollutants, Chemical - analysis; Degradation; Pollution; Microplastics; Marine; Micro-particles; Freshwater
• ISSN: 0169-7722; 1873-6009; 1873-6009
• DOI: 10.1016/j.jconhyd.2024.104399

Improper disposal of household and industrial waste into water bodies has transformed them into de facto dumping grounds. Plastic debris, weathered on beaches degrades into micro-particles and releases chemical additives that enter the water. Microplastic contamination is documented globally in both marine and freshwater environments, posing a significant threat to aquatic ecosystems. The small size of these particles makes them susceptible to ingestion by low trophic fauna, a trend expected to escalate. Ingestion leads to adverse effects like intestinal blockages, alterations in lipid metabolism, histopathological changes in the intestine, contributing to the extinction of vulnerable species and disrupting ecosystem balance. Notably, microplastics (MPs) can act as carriers for pathogens, potentially causing impaired reproductive activity, decreased immunity, and cancer in various organisms. Studies have identified seven principal sources of MPs, including synthetic textiles (35%) and tire abrasion (28%), highlighting the significant human contribution to this pollution. This review covers various aspects of microplastic pollution, including sources, extraction methods, and its profound impact on ecosystems. Additionally, it explores preventive measures, aiming to guide researchers in selecting techniques and inspiring further investigation into the far-reaching impacts of microplastic pollution, fostering effective solutions for this environmental challenge. •Improper waste disposal pollutes water bodies, creating dumping grounds.•Microplastics (MPs) threaten aquatic life through ingestion and adverse effects.•The study of MP pollution underscores the imperative to curb its harm to ecosystems.