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Microplastics in Marine Ecosystems: A Serious Health Concern
Summary
Tiny plastic bits called microplastics—smaller than a pencil eraser—have spread throughout our oceans and are now showing up in fish and seafood we eat. This review paper pulls together existing research showing these particles can carry harmful chemicals and may pose risks to both marine life and human health, though scientists are still working out exactly how much harm they cause. The takeaway: what we do with plastic waste on land doesn't stay on land—it ends up in the ocean and potentially on our dinner plates.
Marine ecosystems are among the most valuable and oldest natural resources on earth. It supports biodiversity, food security, climate regulation and human livelihoods. However, due to rapid increase in plastic production and improper waste management have resulted in widespread contamination of oceans with microplastics. These tiny plastic particles measuring less than 5 mm in diameter have emerged as a significant environmental and public health concern in recent years. Microplastics are now found in seawater, sediments, marine organisms and even seafood consumed by humans. Their persistence, ability to absorb toxic pollutants and potential to enter the food chain make them a serious threat to marine life and human health. This chapter discusses the sources, occurrence, ecological impacts and health implications of microplastics in marine ecosystems while highlighting current challenges and future management strategies for long and sustainable life.