Overview of microplastics in the environment: type, source, potential effects and removal strategies

Bioprocess Biosyst Eng. 2023 Mar;46(3):429-441. doi: 10.1007/s00449-022-02784-y. Epub 2022 Sep 23.

Abstract

The introduction of plastic sectors has resulted in the presence of microplastics (MPs) in water systems, which has become a global issue that has attracted scientific and community awareness. MPs can be detected in a variety of sources such as beauty products, manufacturing effluent, or fishing activities. This study examined the repercussions posed by MPs' prevalence on land and marine environments and human health issues. Henceforth, remediation technologies must be introduced to shift out MPs from the water supplies in order to sustain the environmental quality for future generations, the benefits and drawbacks of the technology applied. This study also portrays difficulties encountered in MP research as the hurdles must be mastered in order to properly comprehend the MPs. The cooperation between nations is the most critical aspect in fully tackling MP issues as it can be easily carried by wind or water and its damage can be larger than predicted.

Keywords: Distribution; Microplastics; Potential effects; Removal efficiency.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Environmental Monitoring
  • Humans
  • Microplastics*
  • Plastics
  • Waste Disposal, Fluid
  • Water Pollutants, Chemical* / analysis

Substances

  • Microplastics
  • Plastics
  • Water Pollutants, Chemical