Removal of Microplastic Contaminants from Aquatic Environment

Microplastics (MPs) contamination has recently been recognized as a serious global concern for global food security and modern society's well-being due to its widespread presence in the aquatic and terrestrial environment. According to a growing number of reports, micro- and nanosized plastic components have been discovered in nearly every part of the world, from the bottom of the ocean to the mountain top. Microplastics have become prevalent in the environment due to the gradual disposal of plastic waste, a lack of conventional detection processes with particular removal techniques, and a slow disposal rate. By adsorbing various heavy metals, pathogens, and other chemical additives frequently utilised in the production of raw plastic, microplastics have been shown to work as potential vectors. At the tertiary level of the food chain, microplastics are consumed by marine organisms such as fish and crustaceans, and then by humans. This phenomenon is responsible for clogging digestive systems, disrupting digestion, and ultimately reducing the reproductive growth of entire living species. As a result of these repercussions, microplastics have become a growing concern as a new possible risk, demanding the management of microplastics in aquatic media. This review chapter gives a comprehensive overview of existing and newly developed technologies for detecting and removing microplastics from aquatic environments in order to minimise the ultimate possible impact on aquatic habitats.