We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Environmental Fate and Ecological Risk of Micro- and Nanoplastics across Terrestrial and Aquatic Ecosystems
Summary
Scientists reviewed existing research on tiny plastic particles (microplastics and nanoplastics) and found they're spreading throughout soil, rivers, and oceans, where animals eat them and pass them up the food chain. These plastic particles cause stress and health problems in wildlife, but researchers still don't fully understand the long-term effects or how much exposure is dangerous. This matters because these same plastic particles can end up in our food and water, but we need better research methods to understand the real risks to human health.
Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) are emerging contaminants widely distributed across terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. This review synthesizes current understanding of their sources, environmental fate, transport pathways, and ecological effects, while critically evaluating existing risk assessment approaches and identifying key knowledge gaps. Terrestrial soils function as major sinks and secondary sources, transferring plastics to freshwater and marine systems via runoff, erosion, and atmospheric deposition. In aquatic environments, particle behavior is governed by size, density, aggregation, and biofouling, influencing vertical distribution and biological exposure. Evidence demonstrates ingestion, physiological stress, and trophic transfer across multiple taxa; however, environmentally realistic dose–response relationships remain uncertain. Major uncertainties concern nanoplastic detection, chronic and multigenerational impacts, and interactions with co-occurring stressors. Current ecological risk frameworks are limited by methodological heterogeneity and sparse nanoplastic data. Advancing harmonized monitoring methods, long-term field studies, and integrative risk models is essential for translating scientific knowledge into effective environmental management and policy.
Sign in to start a discussion.
More Papers Like This
The Fate and Risk of Micro- and Nanoplastics in Terrestrial Ecosystems
This research review summarizes what scientists currently know about tiny plastic particles (called micro- and nanoplastics) that contaminate soil and land environments. The study found that while researchers have learned a lot about plastic pollution, there are still major gaps in understanding how these particles move through soil, affect plants and animals, and potentially reach humans through food. This matters because these microscopic plastics could enter our food supply through crops grown in contaminated soil, but scientists don't yet fully understand the health risks.
Micro and nanoplastics pollution: A review on global concern and its impacts on ecosystems
This review summarizes the current understanding of micro and nanoplastic pollution globally, covering their sources, movement through ecosystems, and risks to both environmental and human health. The evidence shows that these tiny particles alter soil and sediment properties, disrupt nutrient cycles, and pose potential climate hazards. The authors emphasize that more research is needed on how microplastics move through food chains and affect human health, particularly through contaminated food and water.
Review of Recent Advances in Microplastic Ecological Risk Assessment: From Problem Formulation to Risk Characterization
This review of existing research shows that tiny plastic particles called microplastics are contaminating our environment and food chain, carrying harmful chemicals and pollutants that can end up in our bodies. Scientists still don't fully understand how dangerous these microplastics are to human health or how they move through the food we eat, from fish to drinking water. The researchers say we need better methods to study these risks so we can protect people and create policies to reduce plastic pollution.
Microplastics and Nanoplastics in the Freshwater and Terrestrial Environment: A Review
This review critically analyzes the current state of research on micro- and nanoplastic pollution in freshwater and terrestrial environments. Researchers examine how these particles are transported through soil and water systems, their environmental fate, and their ecological impacts on living organisms. The study identifies significant knowledge gaps in the field, particularly around the characterization of nanoplastics and the long-term effects of plastic particle accumulation in non-marine environments.
Microplastics in Aquatic Ecosystems: A Critical Review of Sources, Transport Mechanisms and Ecotoxicological Risks
This review provides a broad overview of microplastic pollution in rivers, oceans, and other aquatic environments, covering where these particles come from, how they move through water systems, and the harm they can cause. Evidence indicates that microplastics accumulate toxins and disrupt growth, feeding, and reproduction in aquatic species, with potential consequences for human health through seafood and drinking water. The authors stress the need for better global monitoring, stronger waste management systems, and development of eco-friendly plastic alternatives.