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Microplastics in the Environment
Summary
This chapter reviewed the environmental behavior and characteristics of microplastics in air, water, soil, and food, covering their ubiquitous distribution, analytical detection methods, ecotoxicological effects, and projections that microplastics could account for 13.2% of global plastic accumulation by 2060.
Microplastics (MPs), which have a diameter of <5 mm, are refractory and emergent micropollutants that exist in the environment in a range of compositions, shapes, and textures. Microplastics have drawn increased attention worldwide due to their ubiquitous distribution in many environmental compartments, including food and drinking water. By 2060, it is anticipated that 13.2 percent of the weight of global plastic accumulation will be composed of MPs. Numerous methods have been developed for this goal in order to comprehend the characteristics of MPs, environmental behaviours, and potential adverse effects or risks. The main techniques for examining structural and surface changes during deterioration processes, including cracks, holes, and erosion, are FTIR and SEM examination. These MPs are toxic to humans, birds, animals, marine species, and soil organisms due to their pervasive prevalence in the air, water, soil, indoor dust, and food products. The inability to effectively formulate strategic solutions is caused by the absence of a thorough overview of MP contamination in various environmental compartments. This review thoroughly identifies and analyses the distribution, sources, transit, destiny, and probable risks of MPs in terrestrial and aquatic environments. One of the suggested integrated solutions to prevent or limit their input into the environment is the use of biodegradable plastics and the development of cutting-edge techniques for the degradation and conversion of plastics and microplastic materials. Other strategies include cleanup efforts, source control, improved plastic waste management, and adopting biodegradable (bio)plastics. The current chapter discusses the harmful effects of MPs on the environment and methods for removing them from the environment. Finally, a perspective on the difficulties caused by MP contamination is provided. Discussions of perspectives from both inside and beyond the realm of science and technology-based solutions are included. Reviewing the effectiveness, benefits, and drawbacks of the existing removal methods can aid in developing more advanced technologies for the complete mitigation of MPs from the environment.
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