Bacteria as Ecological Tools: Pioneering Microplastic Biodegradation

Objective: Examine through scientific literature the use of the biological process of microplastic degradation by bacteria, as well as discuss the definition, characteristics, and environmental and health impacts caused by these respective particles. Materials and Methods: Systematic review conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) protocol. Searches were performed in the electronic databases and libraries of PubMed, Web of Science, Scopus, and Lilacs, using keywords and Boolean operators: "Environment" AND "Microplastics" AND "Microorganisms" OR "Bacteria" AND "Biodegradation" AND "Xenobiotics. Results and conclusion: The results have highlighted that microplastics are among the most challenging emerging contaminants regarding their degradation in the environment. Therefore, studies on the biodegradation of microplastics by bacteria have been considered a promising and ecological methodology for reducing the pollution of these particles in the environment. Originality/ value: This investigation has underscored the significance of both abiotic and biotic degradation processes of microplastics, emphasizing the importance of bacteria in the degradation of these particles and thereby promoting environmental sustainability.