Microplastics and Nanoplastics in Antarctica. Considerations on Their Impact on Ecosystems and Human and Fauna Health

In recent years, microplastics and nanoplastics have been identified in a range of remote environments, including Antarctica.However, data throughout the Southern Hemisphere, particularly Antarctica, are largely absent.Microplastics and nanoplastics have negative effects on marine organisms and act as vectors for persistent organic pollutants and other toxic substances, which are harmful to aquatic environments and organisms.Microplastics and nanoplastics also pose serious problems for human health, especially due to its nanotoxic capacity, of which the mechanisms are not yet fully established.Microplastics and nanoplastics have been recognized as widespread pollutants in the marine environment and are known to be damaging to terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, while their small size and relatively low density also allow them to become airborne and transported over large distances.This work summarizes the results of different research carried out by the various Antarctic programs in marine and terrestrial ecosystems of Antarctica.In addition, we analyze the knowlege about potencial nanotoxicity of nanoplastics and underscore the need for further research and development in this field.