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Article ? AI-assigned paper type based on the abstract. Classification may not be perfect — flag errors using the feedback button. Tier 2 ? Original research — experimental, observational, or case-control study. Direct primary evidence. Environmental Sources Human Health Effects Marine & Wildlife Remediation Sign in to save

Innovative Approaches to Mitigating Microplastic Pollution in Effluents and Soils

Sustainability 2025 1 citation ? Citation count from OpenAlex, updated daily. May differ slightly from the publisher's own count.
Solange Magalhães, Luís Alves, Bruno Medronho, Ida Svanedal, Magnus Norgren, Maria G. Rasteiro

Summary

This review critically analyzed innovative approaches for removing microplastics from effluents and soils, comparing conventional techniques like filtration and coagulation with emerging technologies. Researchers found that while traditional methods show some effectiveness, advanced approaches including membrane bioreactors, electrocoagulation, and bioremediation offer improved removal rates and sustainability for addressing microplastic pollution.

Study Type Environmental

Microplastic pollution represents a significant environmental challenge, as microplastics accumulate in effluents and soils, causing serious risks to ecosystems and human health. Efficient removal of these contaminants is essential to mitigate their potential adverse effects. This review summarizes and critically analyses current methods for the removal of microplastics from effluents and soils, focusing on their effectiveness, advantages, and limitations. Conventional techniques—including filtration, flotation, chemical coagulation, flocculation, and adsorption—are discussed in the context of wastewater treatment and soil remediation. Emerging approaches, such as flocculation processes with special focus on the application of bio-based flocculants, are also highlighted as promising solutions. Key challenges in microplastic removal, including the diversity of microplastic types, their small size, and the complexity of environmental matrices, are addressed. This work intends to contribute to the urgent need for further research to develop more efficient and sustainable strategies for microplastic removal from environmental systems.

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