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Microplastics
Summary
This chapter examines the sources, distribution, and impacts of microplastics found in both coarse and fine airborne particulate matter. Researchers found that microplastics originate primarily from industrial activities and degradation of larger plastic debris, and that inhalation and ingestion of these particles pose health risks. The study also discusses how microplastics may influence climate by disrupting energy dynamics and carbon cycles.
The ubiquitous presence of microplastics (MPs) in the environment and living organisms including humans has emerged as a significant global concern in the recent decades. Ambient MPs primarily originate from industrial activities and degradation of larger plastic debris, contributing to both coarse (PM10) and fine (PM2.5) particulate matter. Inhalation and ingestion of these particles pose significant health risks. MPs can affect plant growth, alter photosynthesis and modify genetic expression, thereby impacting agricultural productivity and ecosystem stability. MPs can also influence climate by disrupting the Earth's energy dynamics and carbon cycles. This chapter focuses on the source apportionment of MPs in coarse and fine particulate matter (PM) and examines their impacts on human health, plants life, and climate change while deliberating on the mitigation strategies.