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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. Detection Methods Food & Water Marine & Wildlife Remediation Sign in to save

Microplastics: What Drinking Water Utilities Need to Know

American Water Works Association 2019 8 citations ? Citation count from OpenAlex, updated daily. May differ slightly from the publisher's own count.
E.P. Smith, Michael P. Dziewatkoski, Tarrah Henrie, Chad Seidel, Jeffrey Rosen

Summary

This review summarizes what drinking water utilities need to know about microplastics, covering sources, occurrence in source and treated water, detection methods, and removal options. The authors conclude that while microplastics are detectable in drinking water, more research is needed on health risks and on which treatment technologies most effectively remove them.

Study Type Environmental

Key Takeaways Consumers are becoming more concerned with microplastics in water, so utilities should start thinking about methods to identify and address them. Although there is a lot of research on microplastics in marine environments, there isn't much research yet with drinking water. To address microplastics, utilities should establish sampling and analytical techniques, identify treatment methods, and implement communications strategies.

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