Understanding Microplastic Pollution in Groundwater: Pathways, Health Implications and Solutions

During the last several decades, academic studies focused mainly on marine and surface water systems to understand Microplastics (MPs) as plastic particles that measure less than 5 mm. Recent studies indicate that MPs are infiltrating groundwater sources, serving as mankind's most crucial source of fresh water. This review investigates different natural and artificial paths by which MPs enter groundwater reserves through landfills, agricultural drainage, and water processing systems as well as old plastic distribution systems. The manuscript focuses on how MPs interact with subsurface environments while tracking their fundamental movement patterns and long-lasting presence that leads to water quality degradation and harms subsurface ecological systems and human wellness. This document highlights the urgent need for effective detection methods for MPs in groundwater, utilizing advanced spectroscopy techniques coupled with machine learning for identification. As global awareness of microplastic pollution rises, the lack of regulatory standards remains a significant challenge. The study stresses the importance of establishing standardized protocols and implementing policy interventions focused on sustainable groundwater management practices without delay. Future research is recommended to develop long-term monitoring systems and integrate high-resolution modeling along with ethical AI applications to address the escalating threats posed by MPs in groundwater environments. By identifying key research gaps, this study aims to guide advancements in sustainable and scalable microplastic identify cation and removal technologies, essential for mitigating their environmental and health implications.