Recent advances towards micro(nano)plastics research in wetland ecosystems: A systematic review on sources, removal, and ecological impacts

J Hazard Mater. 2023 Jun 15:452:131341. doi: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131341. Epub 2023 Apr 3.

Abstract

In recent years, microplastics/nanoplastics (MPs/NPs) have received substantial attention worldwide owing to their wide applications, persistence, and potential risks. Wetland systems are considered to be an important "sink" for MPs/NPs, which can have potential ecological and environmental effects on the ecosystem. This paper provides a comprehensive and systematic review of the sources and characteristics of MPs/NPs in wetland ecosystems, together with a detailed analysis of MP/NP removal and associated mechanisms in wetland systems. In addition, the eco-toxicological effects of MPs/NPs in wetland ecosystems, including plant, animal, and microbial responses, were reviewed with a focus on changes in the microbial community relevant to pollutant removal. The effects of MPs/NPs exposure on conventional pollutant removal by wetland systems and their greenhouse gas emissions are also discussed. Finally, current knowledge gaps and future recommendations are presented, including the ecological impact of exposure to various MPs/NPs on wetland ecosystems and the ecological risks of MPs/NPs associated with the migration of different contaminants and antibiotic resistance genes. This work will facilitate a better understanding of the sources, characteristics, and environmental and ecological impacts of MPs/NPs in wetland ecosystems, and provide a new perspective to promote development in this field.

Keywords: Characteristics; Ecological effects; Micro(nano)plastics; Pollutant purification; Removal; Wetland ecosystems.

Publication types

  • Systematic Review
  • Review
  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Animals
  • Ecosystem
  • Environmental Pollutants*
  • Microbiota*
  • Microplastics
  • Plastics
  • Water Pollutants, Chemical*
  • Wetlands

Substances

  • Plastics
  • Microplastics
  • Environmental Pollutants
  • Water Pollutants, Chemical