Algae-microplastics interactions and their significance in combating aquatic plastic pollution

Microplastics (MPs) represent a new class of pollutants that are widely distributed and significantly affect aquatic ecosystems. Until now, an expanding circle of studies has focused on the environmental behavior and effects of MPs. However, the strategies and technologies for effectively addressing and mitigating MPs pollution remain unexplored. As primary producers, algae play a crucial role in aquatic ecosystems and inevitably interact with MPs, positioning them at the forefront of MPs pollution. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of algal-MP interactions, the effects of MPs on algae, the resulting environmental behaviors, and the underlying mechanisms. Importantly, by analyzing the ability and mechanisms of algal-MP interactions, we highlight promising applications of using the environmental adaptability and biological properties of algae for mitigating aquatic plastic pollution, including mitigation of MPs toxicity, removal of MPs, and repurposing of aquatic plastic particles. Additionally, by discussing these applications leveraging the algal-MP interaction, this review enables future research and technology development of eco-friendly and cost-effective approaches that are crucial for global efforts to mitigate plastic pollution.