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How Do Nanoplastics and Microplastics Impact Human Health?
Summary
This review examines how nanoplastics and microplastics impact human health not only through direct particle exposure but also indirectly through their degradation of ecosystem services and environmental health. The authors synthesize evidence showing MPs are omnipresent in nature, that NPs are accumulating as MP fragmentation continues, and that the combined direct and indirect pathways represent a growing and multifaceted human health concern.
Human exposure to nanoplastics (NPs) and/or microplastics is no longer a potential problem but is a certainty. There is a vast amount of research investigating key considerations regarding exposure to NPs and/or MPs and related adverse effects to human health. What is becoming evident is that it is not only exposure to NPs and/or MPs that is an issue of concern. Human health impacts arise not merely through the direct exposure to the particles but may be a consequence of the detrimental effects that these particles are having on nature and environmental health. It is now accepted that MPs are omnipresent in nature. Furthermore, it is anticipated that NPs will follow suit as degradation of MPs into smaller fragments occurs. The dynamics of ecosystems and ecosystem services may be influenced by the presence of these particles and have subsequent far-reaching effects on human health. This chapter will provide a short synopsis of recent studies investigating effects on human health through direct contact with NPs and/or MPs and provide comments on emerging areas of interest in addressing plastic pollution.