Marine microplastic pollution & misinformation in the public sphere: a systematic review

Marine microplastic pollution is a persistent global issue that has gained scientific attention for over two decades. Nevertheless, knowledge gaps remain, particularly in how inconsistencies in communicating scientific evidence can lead to misinformation. A systematic review was conducted to identify how previous research has examined miscommunication about microplastics in the public sphere. Of the 274 scientific publications identified, 15 were found eligible for inclusion in the study. These publications were analysed to establish (i) the methodologies employed to investigate microplastic communication in the public sphere, (ii) how existing information contributes to microplastic miscommunication, and (iii) what level of awareness and knowledge around microplastic pollution has been established. Our analysis revealed two primary study types: participant-based (e.g., via surveys, focus groups) and text-based studies of media content (e.g., newspapers, digital platforms). The participant-based studies showed misperceptions about impacts on human health and their pathways into the natural environment, even among well-informed or professionally involved individuals. The text-based studies revealed inexact media reporting involving scientific referencing, content accuracy, representation of microplastic pollution, and sensationalist tones. The findings highlight the need for further research into the miscommunication of microplastic pollution to facilitate best practice in the communication of scientifically accurate information across audiences.