Case Studies on Environmental Stressors in India: Microplastics in Marine Life and Pesticides Affecting Bees

Microplastics in marine ecosystems and pesticide exposure among bees represent two urgent ecological challenges that affect biodiversity, food security and human well-being. Microplastics, originating from industrial discharge, synthetic textiles, packaging, and household waste, have been reported in oceans, rivers, and estuaries worldwide, including along India’s coastline. Their ingestion by marine organisms results in physiological stress, reproductive failure and bioaccumulation within the food chain. Similarly, excessive pesticide uses in agriculture—particularly neonicotinoids—has been linked to bee population decline, impaired pollination services and ecological imbalance. In India, the rapid expansion of aquaculture and agriculture exacerbates these threats due to inadequate waste management and chemical regulation. This chapter presents two detailed case studies: (i) microplastics in marine life with a focus on Indian coastal waters and (ii) pesticides and bee decline, emphasizing their socio-ecological and economic implications. A comparative synthesis highlights converging concerns such as ecosystem disruption, food security threats, and policy gaps.