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Adverse Effects of Micro- and Nanoplastics on Humans and the Environment
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This editorial highlights the growing concern over nano- and microplastic pollution, which was further intensified during the COVID-19 pandemic due to the widespread disposal of personal protective equipment. Researchers discuss the adverse effects of these particles on both human health and the environment. The study underscores the need for continued research into the long-term impacts of micro- and nanoplastic exposure.
The pervasive pollution caused by nano- and microplastics (N/MPLs) is a pressing concern, and was exacerbated during the COVID-19 pandemic due to the substantial release of disposable Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) into the environment [...]
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Generation and consequence of nano/microplastics from medical waste and household plastic during the COVID-19 pandemic
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This review examines how medical waste and household plastics generated during the COVID-19 pandemic contribute to micro- and nanoplastic pollution. Researchers found that approximately 1.6 million tons of plastic waste were generated daily during the pandemic, with single-use items like face masks and gloves containing non-biodegradable materials that fragment into microplastics. The study highlights that these particles can also serve as carriers for pathogenic contaminants, posing long-term risks to ecosystems and human health.
Post-pandemic micro/nanoplastic pollution: Toward a sustainable management
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Researchers reviewed how the COVID-19 pandemic contributed to micro- and nanoplastic pollution through the massive use of disposable personal protective equipment like masks and gloves. The study found that weathering of these items releases microplastics into the environment and may even serve as carriers for pathogens. The review calls for more sustainable waste management approaches in preparing for future health crises.
Microplastic pollution and associated health hazards: Impact of COVID-19 pandemic
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This review explores how the COVID-19 pandemic led to a surge in single-use plastic waste from masks, gloves, and packaging, increasing microplastic pollution in the environment. Microplastics from this waste can enter land, air, and water, ultimately accumulating in the human body. The study highlights the need for better plastic waste detection, recycling, and management to reduce health risks from pandemic-driven microplastic contamination.
Post-Covid-19 Pandemic Awareness on The Use of Micro- and Nano Plastic and Efforts into Their Degradation - A Mini Review
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This mini-review discusses how COVID-19 increased micro- and nanoplastic pollution globally through expanded use of plastic in personal protective equipment and medical supplies. It also reviews current approaches to degrade these plastics, noting that biological and chemical methods show promise but face major scale-up challenges.
Personal protective equipment and micro-nano plastics: A review of an unavoidable interrelation for a global well-being hazard
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This review examines how personal protective equipment like masks and gloves, widely used during the COVID-19 pandemic, breaks down into micro- and nanoplastics when improperly disposed of. These tiny plastic fragments enter the environment and have been shown to be harmful to living organisms based on their size, shape, and chemical makeup. The study highlights a growing concern that pandemic-era protective gear is contributing to plastic pollution in soil, water, and air.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.