Effect of microplastics pollution in riverine ecosystem: A review

Microplastic contamination in riverine ecosystems includes diverse forms such as threads, fragments, films, foams, and pellets. These tiny particles can be ingested by aquatic organisms and travel long distances, eventually settling in sediments. While many studies have examined microplastics in surface waters and river depths, research on their accumulation and mobilization within riverbeds is limited. Effective mitigation of microplastic contamination requires comprehensive sampling from various locations, including non-point sources and intrasite variations, to better understand their distribution and concentrations. Microplastics degrade from larger plastics through mechanical forces and UV radiation, and they pose significant threats to aquatic life, human health, and ecosystems. This article focuses on the impact of microplastics, including their adsorption of harmful contaminants and their ecotoxicological effects. Additionally, policy interventions are essential for reducing plastic pollution in riverine environments.