Exploring Microplastics: Occurrence, Ecological Implications, and Environmental Dynamics in Biotic Systems

In 2019, global plastic production reached approximately 368 million metric tons, with projections indicating a rise to 12 billion metric tons of plastic waste by 2050. The chapter emphasizes the significant increase in microplastics (MPs) pollution due to the COVID-19 pandemic, driven by the surge in single-use plastics like face masks. Crucially, the entry of MPs into various ecosystems highlights their degradation into nano-sized particles and their impact on biota across aquatic and terrestrial environments. For instance, soil ecosystems are noted as major MP accumulation sites, with detrimental effects on soil quality. Aquatic environments are similarly affected, with PMs entering via direct and indirect sources, leading to ingestion by marine life and subsequent health risks. The chapter also explores human exposure to MPs through ingestion, inhalation, and dermal penetration, underlining the potential health hazards these routes pose. Furthermore, the life cycle of MPs includes their production, degradation, and accumulation in different ecosystems. Current mitigation strategies and challenges are analyzed, focusing on innovative methods like bioremediation and the development of biodegradable plastics. The research indicates that engineered microorganisms and biodegradable plastics could play a key role in MP remediation, aligning with environmentally sustainable practices. Finally, we outline the need for future research, emphasizing the importance of understanding chemical pollutants’ leaching from MPs, the ecological impacts at multiple trophic levels, and the transformation of MPs in the environment. It advocates for interdisciplinary research approaches to contextualize findings within the environmental framework and addresses the critical role of microorganisms in mitigating MP pollution.