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Addressing the microplastic crisis: A multifaceted approach to removal and regulation
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Researchers reviewed the growing crisis of microplastic pollution and concluded that no single solution is sufficient — effective action requires combining better wastewater treatment, biodegradable plastic alternatives, stricter regulations, public education, and new detection technologies. They identified major knowledge gaps in understanding the full health and ecological impacts, underscoring the need for global cooperation.
• Microplastics’ (MPs) growing threat needs collaborative mitigation efforts. • The review identifies MP knowledge gaps, and proposes research priorities. • MP crisis requires regulatory, social, and technical solutions. • MP pollution needs a holistic governance, innovation, engagement. • Public education of global MP crisis and its impacts must not be overlooked. The presence of microplastics (MPs) in the environment poses a serious threat to both human health and ecosystems. MPs are small plastic particles that originate from various sources, such as textile fibers, cosmetics, and plastic debris. They can enter aquatic and terrestrial habitats through wastewater discharge and accumulate in the food chain. MPs can harm living organisms by causing physical damage, releasing toxic substances, and interfering with vital functions. Humans are primarily exposed to MPs through the ingestion of contaminated water and seafood. Various technologies, including advanced oxidation, bioremediation, coagulation, and membrane filtration, have been employed to remove MPs from wastewater. However, these methods are not entirely effective in eliminating them. Therefore, a comprehensive approach is necessary to address the issue, which includes improved waste management, biodegradable alternatives, product bans and taxes, upgrades to wastewater treatment plants, public education, and novel detection and removal methods in different sectors. However, there are still significant research gaps in assessing the ecological and human health impacts, enhancing the removal efficiency, and evaluating the sustainability of the proposed solutions across different exposure pathways. A global collaboration is necessary to urgently implement circular economy solutions to address the plastic pollution crisis.
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This review examines the global microplastics pollution problem and evaluates solutions combining technology, policy, and legislation. Current water treatment technologies like membrane bioreactors can remove microplastics, but no single approach is sufficient. The authors call for coordinated international action combining better detection methods, cleanup technologies, and stronger regulations to address plastic pollution in both water and land environments.
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This review summarizes current strategies for mitigating the environmental and health impacts of micro- and nanoplastics, covering physical, chemical, and biological approaches to removal and degradation. It highlights that no single solution is adequate and that a combination of prevention, better waste management, and remediation technologies will be needed.
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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.