The Invisible Threat

The increased use of micro- and nanoplastics (MiNaPs) has been reported by various researchers. Plastic materials that are sustained in the environment disintegrate into smaller parts and thus pose diverse challenges for different forms of life with which they come in contact with. The release of these particles cannot be attributed only to industries or households. The repercussions are borne by the environment in general and by receptors in particular. Recently, much has been reported about how MiNaPs have been affecting the aquatic environment and disturbing the ecology. They are persistent environmental pollutants with more than 90% of the plastic particle load in an environment composed of microplastic fragments. The high surface-area-to-volume ratio of microplastics makes them effective sorbents for harmful compounds. The presence of MiNaPs in the atmosphere will eventually impact all forms of life, with varied impacts depending upon concentration, time of exposure, etc. Airborne MiNaPs can travel long distances from their source and are deposited in terrestrial and aquatic environments, thereby causing varied damage to the receptors. An attempt was made to study the sources, origins, and impacts of MiNaPs. All major reasons, after the effects and scope of research regarding MiNaPs, are discussed here.