Microplastic Pollution and Its Detrimental Impact on Coastal Ecosystems and Mid-Ocean Gyres

Globally, the presence of microplastic materials in the environment is widespread, and their largest concentrations can be found in coastal ecosystems and within mid-ocean gyres. Since the inception of mass plastic product manufacturing in the middle of the twentieth century, these durable, lightweight, and inexpensive materials have been, and continue to be, extensively exploited by humans. However, the presence of large numbers of microplastics in marine ecosystems in recent years has become a serious environmental issue that has attracted widespread interest in both the scientific and the broader community at large. In particular, the ingestion and subsequent detrimental health effects on many marine species are the most noticeable and alarming impacts of microplastics. Furthermore, recent studies have also shown microplastics can accumulate, concentrate, and act as vectors for conveying toxic pollutants within the food chain. Another feature of microplastics is their ability to transport marine species from one ecosystem to another where they become threats to local indigenous marine species. Because of the serious nature of microplastic pollution, it is important to understand their impact on coastal ecosystems and ocean gyres. This chapter discusses four aspects of microplastic pollution: 1) sources of both primary and secondary microplastics; 2) their physical and chemical behavioral properties; 3) bioavailability and behavioral properties of microplastics and their interactions with marine organisms; and 4) future perspectives, which highlights key areas of research needed to elucidate the effects of microplastic pollution in the marine environment. Importantly, understanding these four aspects of microplastic pollution will assist in directing future marine pollution research and assist policymakers to develop appropriate management strategies.