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Microalgae for microplastic removal from water and wastewater: a review
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Researchers reviewed the potential for microalgae to remove microplastics from water and wastewater, finding that algae can physically aggregate with plastic particles through several mechanisms — offering a potentially low-cost, biological alternative to conventional filtration methods that struggle to capture very small plastic particles.
The worldwide microplastic pollution in waters requires efficient removal techniques, yet actual wastewater treatment methods are limited. Here we review the use of microalgae for microplastic removal, with focus on microplastics in aquatic systems and wastewaters, legislation and regulations, common removal techniques, and microalgae for microplastic removal. We describe the mechanisms involved in microalgae-microplastics aggregation. We also present the criteria for selecting adequate microalgae for microplastics removal from wastewater.
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Researchers reviewed the potential of microalgae to break down microplastics, exploring how these tiny aquatic organisms could offer a natural, low-cost solution to combat the growing problem of plastic pollution in freshwater and ocean environments.
Algae-microplastics interactions and their significance in combating aquatic plastic pollution
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Researchers review how algae interact with microplastics in aquatic environments, examining both the harmful effects on algae and the potential to harness algal biological properties for eco-friendly microplastic removal, toxicity mitigation, and repurposing of plastic particles.
Microplastics and freshwater microalgae: what do we know so far?
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A review of 20 studies found that microplastics inhibit freshwater microalgae growth, reduce photosynthetic activity, alter pigment profiles, and induce oxidative stress, with effects varying by plastic shape, size, concentration, and exposure duration. Because microalgae form the base of aquatic food webs, microplastic-driven disruption of algal communities could have cascading effects on freshwater ecosystem health.
Environmental Toxicity, Health Hazards, and Bioremediation Strategies for Removal of Microplastics from Wastewater
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Researchers reviewed physical, chemical, and biological strategies for removing microplastics from wastewater, documenting the significant threat these sub-5mm particles pose to aquatic ecosystems and human health while evaluating the effectiveness and limitations of current bioremediation approaches.
Bioremediation Strategies for Microplastic Removal in Impacted Aquatic Environments
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This review examined bioremediation strategies — using microorganisms, algae, and other biological agents — to remove microplastic contamination from urban aquatic environments including drinking water treatment plants. Bioremediation offers a potentially scalable, low-cost pathway to reducing the microplastic load in water systems before plastics reach tap water and human consumers.
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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.