AI‐Driven Technologies in Mitigation of Microplastic Pollution

The influence of microplastics (MPs) is increasing nowadays on human health as well as on natural environment. There are different sources of these compounds i.e., personal hygiene products, soaps, and the decomposition of larger plastic stuffs. Microplastics are responsible for various detrimental effects specifically on marine life and other ecosystems. As an illustration, disturbance of reproductive systems of marine animals, ingestion of marine animals, and even mortality. Microplastics generate different pecuniary effects as well, because their presence in the environment can have negative impact on various sectors i.e., tourism and fishing. Moreover, human health is also influenced negatively owing to microplastic exposure i.e., various metabolic disorders (obesity and diabetes), sleep disturbances, disease related to respiratory system. Different programs and policies have been implemented to deal with issues arising due to microplastic pollution. But there are some other problems which include, lack of funding, less awareness among the public, and inefficient legislation. In the following chapter, the writer had discussed about the role of AI in the estimation of MPs in the ecosystem. It was found that AI-assisted detection techniques are beneficial to cope up with shortcomings of the traditional detection methods i.e., expensive, low efficiency, less accuracy and laborious. Additionally, this chapter discussed the role of AI to mitigate MPs pollution effects.