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Human Health Risk from Microplastic Contamination in Indonesian Waters Viewed from Distribution, Ecotoxicological Effects and Mitigation Strategies
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Indonesia has some of the highest microplastic pollution in its waters worldwide, and this review of 42 studies finds these tiny plastic particles are showing up in the fish people eat—causing DNA damage and organ harm in the fish themselves, while also carrying toxic heavy metals along for the ride. Even more concerning, microplastics have been found in human blood, brain tissue, and breast milk, with links to reduced cognitive function, highlighting an urgent need for better plastic waste policies to protect public health.
The global plastic pollution crisis has reached alarming levels, with massive annual production and low effective recycling rates. Indonesia is a major contributor of plastic waste to the ocean and the country with the highest microplastics per capita in the world. This study analyzes the distribution of microplastics in Indonesian waters and their risks to human health through the food chain. This study used a literature review method with a narrative review approach on 42 reputable articles. The results show that microplastic contamination is dominated by fragments and fibers from food packaging polymers. Bioaccumulation was confirmed in all fish samples from several waters, accompanied by damage to Deoxyribonucleic Acid (DNA) and histopathology of vital organs, as well as the role of microplastics as heavy metal vectors in consumable biota. The human health risk reaches an emergency level with particle internalization in blood, brain tissue, and breast milk associated with decreased cognitive function. These findings confirm microplastics as contaminants that transfer toxins through the food chain and penetrate biological barriers. Risk-based regulations, equitable distribution of waste management infrastructure, and policies to reduce single-use plastics are needed to protect public health.
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Effect of Consumption of Fish Contaminated with Microplastics on Human Health
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This Indonesian-language review synthesises evidence that consuming fish contaminated with microplastics can harm human health, as microplastic particles and adsorbed chemical pollutants transfer from fish tissue into the human body upon ingestion. The paper highlights the fish-to-human exposure pathway as a key public health concern, particularly in regions where seafood is a dietary staple.
Microplastic Contaminant in Indonesia: A review on Debris, Exposure, Health Risk and Future Perspective
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This Indonesian review collates data on microplastic contamination across the country's marine and coastal environments, documenting debris in fish, shellfish, and seawater, and assessing exposure and health risks for the Indonesian population. Given Indonesia's status as one of the world's largest sources of ocean plastic waste, the findings underscore both local exposure risks and the country's critical role in global microplastic pollution.
Microplastic Pollution in Waters and its Impact on Health and Environment in Indonesia: A Review
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This review assessed microplastic pollution in Indonesian waters, documenting widespread contamination across rivers, coastal areas, and marine environments, and discussing the health and ecological impacts for the world's second-largest plastic waste contributor.
Pencemaran Mikroplastik Di Perairan dan Dampaknya terhadap Organisme Perikanan: Sebuah Tinjauan Sistematis
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This review of 17 studies found that tiny plastic particles (mostly from textile fibers) are contaminating Indonesian waters, sediment, and nearly 100% of fish tested—causing organ damage and stress inside the fish themselves. Since these plastics can move up the food chain, this raises real questions about what ends up on our plates when we eat seafood, highlighting the need for better waste management and monitoring.
Microplastic Contamination in Fish and Shellfish: A Review
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This review examined microplastic contamination in fish and shellfish consumed by Indonesian populations, covering detection methods, contamination levels, and potential human health risks. The authors found that microplastics are widespread in commercially important species and called for national-level monitoring programs and regulations on plastic discharge into aquatic environments.
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When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.