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Environmental and human health problems of plastic pollution and management strategies for sustainability
Summary
This review pulls together findings from 52 studies to show how plastic pollution breaks down into tiny particles called microplastics and nanoplastics, which can end up in our soil, water, and air. Early research suggests these particles may be linked to hormone disruption, reproductive issues, and inflammation in the body, though scientists still need more long-term studies to know exactly how risky they are. The bigger takeaway: current recycling programs and plastic bans often fall short because of weak enforcement and poor infrastructure, meaning stronger policies and better waste management are needed to protect both the environment and our health.
Plastic pollution has emerged as a major global environmental and public health challenge, particularly in regions with limited waste management infrastructure and regulatory capacity. This umbrella review synthesizes evidence from 52 published reviews, providing a systems-oriented and policy-relevant analysis that links plastic pollution evidence with governance gaps, circular transition barriers, and sustainable management implications. Quality appraisal shows that the evidence base is dominated by moderate-quality reviews (85%); with about 15% high-quality systematic reviews assessed using A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews 2 (AMSTAR-2). The synthesis indicates that the fragmentation of plastics into microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) alters soil microbial communities and nutrient cycling, facilitates the transport of hazardous substances through aquatic systems, and contributes to airborne exposure pathways linked to respiratory and potential climate-related risks. The evidence suggests possible associations between MP/NP exposure and endocrine disruption, reproductive and developmental effects, immune responses, and oxidative stress, although significant methodological heterogeneity and limited long-term epidemiological data remain. Management and policy responses cluster into three domains: technological interventions and circular economy (e.g., advanced recycling, biodegradable materials, microbial degradation, and waste-to-energy systems), behavioral strategies (e.g., public awareness and participation in waste segregation and recycling), and regulatory instruments (e.g., bans, levies, and international agreements). However, the effectiveness and scalability of these measures are often constrained by weak enforcement, infrastructure gaps, and insufficient life-cycle and toxicity assessments. This umbrella synthesis identifies priorities for standardized monitoring, evidence-based regulation, and sustainable circular economy transitions.