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![Microplastic pollution in aquatic environments and impacts on food chains [3].](publication/323927301/figure/fig3/AS:606805566693377@1521685129387/Microplastic-pollution-in-aquatic-environments-and-impacts-on-food-chains-3.png)
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... to Anderson et al. [5], there are numerous ways through which microplastics and associated contaminants can be incorporated by the aquatic biota (Figure 3). This includes filter feeding, suspension feeding, inhalation at air-water surface, and consumption of prey exposed to microplastics or via direct ingestion; hence, microplastics can be assimilated into the food chain at different trophic levels [5]. Because of its particularly small size, micro- plastics are easily ingested by plankton and filter feeding animals which are not capable of properly selecting their food [5]. In literature, there are studies that indicate the presence of microplastics in the aquatic biota since 1960, and a few studies have been investigating the microplastic's uptake by aquatic mammals and seabirds ...
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... In addition to the change in polymer properties, the accumulation of microplastics is another problem related to the aging of polymers that has been increasingly addressed recently. More specifically, the problem of the presence of plastics in the oceans, from the surface to sea floor sediment, has been investigated in recent studies [16][17][18][19][20][21][22][23][24][25][26]. Polyester, while not harmful to health and the environment per se, is a cause for concern due to its large volume in waste and low biodegradability, leading to the release of microplastics into the environment. ...
Understanding the factors that affect how materials age is essential for creating a durable product with long-lasting properties. It is also important to prioritize defining aging parameters that reflect the real-world conditions the materials will encounter. For this study, a range of swimwear materials were selected consisting of a blend of polymer (polyamide/polyester) and elastane in varying ratios. In order to simulate aging conditions, materials were immersed in chlorinated outdoor pool water during the summer season, either in shade or the sun, for 200 and 300 h. The materials were tested for mass per unit area, thickness, tensile properties, and moisture management. A slight mass per unit area increase was observed, rising from 1.0% after 200 h of chlorine and sunlight exposure to 3.7% after 300 h. Thickness increased by 1.7% after 200 h and 3.2% after 300 h of chlorine exposure, with no significant effect of sunlight. Breaking force dropped by 12.4% after 200 h in chlorine and 8.2% in chlorine and sunlight, becoming more pronounced after 300 h (65.7% in chlorine and 65.1% in chlorine and sunlight). The overall moisture management capability declined from 0.4888 to 0.3457 after 200 h in chlorine and 0.3393 with sunlight, dropping further after 300 h to 0.3838 and 0.3253, respectively.
... Although there are several remediation technologies available for the removal of MPs from water resources, their efficacy is frequently inadequate in totally eradicating MPs in water treatment facilities. Despite the extensive body of research dedicated to verifying the existence of MPs in wastewater, our comprehension of the mechanisms involved in the removal of MPs at various stages of treatment facilities remains inadequate (Westphalen and Abdelrasoul 2018). The analysis of wastewater is of utmost importance due to its significant role as the main contributor to MPs pollution in accessible water sources, hence posing a threat to the long-term viability of these resources for human use (Aljaradin 2020). ...
... The analysis of wastewater is of utmost importance due to its significant role as the main contributor to MPs pollution in accessible water sources, hence posing a threat to the long-term viability of these resources for human use (Aljaradin 2020). Despite the considerable reduction in microplastic particles (MPs) as evidenced in earlier studies, residual by-products may still be released into aquatic environments, exacerbating the degradation of the ecosystem (Westphalen and Abdelrasoul 2018). The integration of effective technologies into existing treatment plants can often be accompanied by high costs and complexity, leading to their utilization primarily in situations where they are deemed necessary (Aljaradin 2020). ...
... Hence, it is imperative to implement proactive strategies in order to effectively address the worldwide dissemination of MP contamination. It is of utmost importance that nations come together and engage in cooperation to tackle this matter, given that the majority of countries have not yet developed a comprehensive structure to address the main factors contributing to the accumulation of microplastics in water bodies or to properly handle associated elements (Westphalen and Abdelrasoul 2018). Although numerous governments have implemented measures aimed at reducing and promoting recycling of plastics in order to enhance public consciousness, there is a substantial need for further advancements in this area. ...
Water is a fundamental component of human physiological processes, playing a crucial role in functions such as nutrient assimilation and metabolic activities. Furthermore, it plays a crucial role in guaranteeing a plentiful food supply for all organisms. In addition to its duty in providing nutrition, water serves as a home for many life forms and plays a vital part in establishing a conducive living environment. However, the introduction of plastic materials has led to the occurrence of microplastics (MPs) in aquatic environments, which has become a global issue that has attracted significant interest from both the scientific community and the general public. The increasing worldwide demand for plastics can be ascribed to its multifunctionality in commercial and industrial contexts, combined with its cost-effectiveness. Members of Parliament have been identified through multiple sources, including but not limited to cosmetic products, industrial wastes, and fishing operations. The primary aim of this research is to conduct a thorough examination of the consequences resulting from the widespread presence of MPs on both terrestrial and marine ecosystems, as well as the impact on human welfare. Therefore, it is crucial to develop efficient mitigation measures in order to remove MPs from water reservoirs, protect ecological integrity, and provide a safer environment for future generations. Furthermore, this work evaluates the benefits and limitations of utilized methodologies, elucidating the inherent difficulties in MPs research that require resolution in order to achieve a thorough comprehension of these particles. International collaboration plays a crucial role in efficiently resolving concerns related to marine pollutants, as they have the ability to disperse by wind and sea currents, leading to possible repercussions that are difficult to predict.
... Screening techniques are effective in removing solid particles, anticipating a removal of 50.0-70.0% of total suspended solids [47]. During secondary treatment, MPs may be biodegraded by bacteria and microorganisms. ...
Microplastic (MP) contamination has grown to be a serious environmental issue in recent years. Microplastics are plastic particles, with a size of less than 5 mm, that are either produced specifically for use in a variety of products or emerge through the decomposition of larger plastic items. Data from prior research conducted in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) regarding the abundances of microplastics across different treatment stages of WWTPs in different countries were compiled using online scientific databases. This research found that although Turkey only managed to attain a removal rate of 48.0%, Iran and the United States were able to reach removal rates of over 90.0%. It was discovered that two plants in Morocco had relatively high removal efficiencies, with one achieving a remarkable 74.0% removal rate and the other an 87.0% removal rate. The predominance of fibers and fragments in the influent and effluent across all studied locations shows the difficulty in effectively removing them from wastewater. The widespread abundance of microplastic polymers from diverse sources poses a significant challenge for wastewater treatment facilities in efficiently managing and eliminating these pollutants. This research further demonstrated regional differences in the color composition of microplastics, with black, transparent, blue, and red being prominent colors in the influent and effluent of some regions. These color variations can influence the detection and identification processes, which are crucial for developing targeted removal strategies. In conclusion, it is essential to address the pervasiveness of microplastics in wastewater treatment plants. Improving treatment procedures, protecting the ecosystem, and conserving water quality for a sustainable future all depend on addressing the various sources of these contaminants.
... Typically, each product has a variable average weight content of MPs; for example, toothpaste typically has 0.25% by weight of microbeads, whereas face cleansers include roughly 2.3%, 2.55% in a facial scrub, and 1.75% in a body wash (Sukanya et al., 2020). Microbead-containing items are rinsed down the sewer and collected with domestic effluent to the wastewater treatment plant (Heloisa & Amira, 2017). Several research findings have found that wastewater treatment plants are typically poor at retaining MPs, resulting in MPs escaping into the freshwater environments and eventually ending up in the ocean (Anderson, Park, & Palace, 2016). ...
Microplastics (MPs) pollution is a significant concern within environmental degradation, prevalent across various ecosystems, including aquatic and terrestrial environments. Industries such as agriculture, laundry, tourism, personal care products, and cosmetics primarily contribute to MP pollution in both soil and aquatic ecosystems. The ingestion of MPs by marine and terrestrial organisms, followed by their subsequent transfer along the food chain, has been extensively documented. Additionally, the presence of MPs in the environment has potentially exacerbated climate change dynamics. Notably, studies have revealed that MPs in soils exhibit interactive effects on nitrogen and carbon cycles, leading to increased emissions of N2O by up to 37.5% and CO2 by up to 92%. Despite numerous studies highlighting MPs' abundance and adverse impacts on terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems, there remains a significant knowledge gap concerning their correlation with climate change and their broader implications for human and environmental health. While previous research has shed light on the ecological consequences of MPs, a comprehensive review addressing the correlation between MPs abundance in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems and their impact on climate change and human health has yet to be presented. The present study offers a comprehensive overview of various types of MPs, their sources, impacts, and transport pathways under changing climatic conditions. The findings of this study are anticipated to contribute towards mitigating the transport of MPs within ecosystems, thereby minimizing ecological impacts and their associated greenhouse gas emissions.
... Hence, their availability in industrial WWTPs is still limited. Furthermore, there is no specific role in MF removal in membrane technology (Westphalen & Abdelrasoul, 2018). For instance, the removal of MFs from textile wastewater using membrane technology has not been reported . ...
Microfibres released from textiles are consistently found in various environments, indicating human impacts on natural systems. It is mostly reported that microplastic fibres, a subset of synthetic textile microfibres, are the primary contributors to microplastic pollution. According to the forecast, textile production will grow remarkably, and microfibre pollution will magnify and become more challenging to resolve. Wastewater treatment plants play an essential role in microfibre pollution, as research suggests they can be a sink and source. Despite the significant prevalence of microfibres in the ambient, the most common release pathways investigated are domestic textile laundering, transport through and retention in municipal wastewater treatment plants and subsequent application of processed sludge to agricultural fields as a soil amendment. There is limited research on textile industrial wastewater effluent, which is equally relevant to the upstream textile lifecycle. Studies showed that microfibres in textile industrial wastewater could be higher than municipal wastewater by a thousand times more. Microfibres released in industrial wastewater effluents do not yet have a standard test method for detection and quantification, and legislation is not yet feasible. Considering the significant abundance of microfibres in industrial wastewater effluent, narrowing the knowledge gaps and specifically targeting this major source of microfibre release into the aquatic environment is imperative.
... A study found that smallersized plastic particles (50 µm) were present in tap water samples from different provinces of China [118]. It is important to note that WWTPs may not be able to remove all the MPs from wastewater, which increases the concerns about potential toxicological effects on humans and other organisms [119]. This emphasizes the need for improved techniques to address plastic contamination in drinking water systems. ...
In recent years, the ubiquitous occurrence of plastic debris has become a significant environmental concern, posing considerable harm to our ecosystems. Microplastics (MPs) (1 μm–5 mm) and nanoplastics (NPs) (<1 μm) are noticeable in diverse forms, spreading throughout the environment. Notably, wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) emerge as major contributors to the generation of MP and NP. Within these treatment plants, water influx from domestic and commercial sources carries a considerable load of MPs derived from items like fiber clothing, personal care products, and toothpaste. Lacking dedicated removal mechanisms, these MPs persist through the wastewater treatment process, ultimately entering natural water bodies and the soil environment. The novelty of this review lies in its detailed examination of contemporary methodologies for sampling, detecting, and eliminating MPs specifically from WWTPs. By critically assessing the efficacy of current removal techniques at various treatment stages, the review offers targeted insights into practical aspects of MP management in these facilities. As the study of micro/nano plastics is still in its early stages, this article aims to contribute by offering a comprehensive review of the methods utilized for plastic debris removal in both WWTPs and drinking water treatment plants (DWTPs). Furthermore, the article provides a comprehensive overview of the existing rules, regulations, and policies concerning MPs in the United States. This inclusion not only broadens the scope of the review but also establishes it as a valuable reference for understanding the regulatory framework related to MPs. This review uniquely combines a focused evaluation of WWTPs/DWTPs, an exploration of removal methods, and an examination of regulatory framework, making a different contribution to the review article. Through this review, we aim to enhance understanding and awareness of the multi-layered challenges posed by MPs, offering insights that can inform future research directions and policy initiatives.
... The most important method of land based SMPs source in aquatic bodies is the loss from inappropriate managing of landfill sites and during waste collection. Other SMPs sources entering the aquatic systems are through agricultural activities, natural phenomena (hurricanes, tsunamis, strong sea waves, etc.), inappropriate management of landfill sites, etc. (Westphalen and Abdelrasoul 2017). The origin of MPs and how they enter the food chain via aquatic bodies has been shown in Fig. 2. ...
This paper provides a comprehensive review on microplastic from source to sink and reviews the current state of knowledge of the topic by focusing on the articles published within the last five years on identification, quantification, analyses, and effects of microplastics on soil and aqueous environments. Microplastics are materials formed either by the degradation of the plastic into smaller micro sized particles or obtained directly in daily products such as cosmetics, toothpastes, domestic cleaning products, etc. Hence, the origin of microplastics is either a primary or secondary microplastic source. The lack of information and research conducted on microplastics in soil compared to water influenced many disparities. These include variations in defining microplastics to lack of conclusive methodologies in analysis of microplastics in soil which therefore lead to gaps in identification of plastic source and comprehension of plastic pollution in soil. The effect of microplastics on different aquatic vertebrates, mammals, and humans is studied and, in most cases, various negative effects were observed in the organism’s physiology. In addition to innovative control methods, there is a growing focus on exploring bioplastics as a potential substitute for traditional plastics. Numerous studies suggest that the environmental impact is more manageable with the production and use of bioplastics. Nonetheless, additional research is needed to confirm the viability of bioplastics as a potential solution.
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... Membrane processes integrated with advanced techniques like reverse osmosis (RO) or pervaporation, further enhanced the efficiency and sustainability in controlling microplastics pollution (Westphalen and Abdelrasoul, 2018). Among the membrane processes, ultrafiltration (UF) is considered the most efficient and cost-effective (Xiong et al., 2022). ...
Microplastics are small plastic pieces ranging in size from 1μ to <5 mm in diameter, are water-soluble, and can be either primary as they are initially created in small sizes or secondary as they develop due to plastic degradation. Approximately 360 million tons of plastic are produced globally every year, with only 7% recycled, leaving the majority of waste to accumulate in the environment and pose a serious threat in the form of microplastics. All ecosystems, particularly freshwater ecosystems, experience microplastic accumulation and are also prone to degrading processes. Degraded microplastics accumulate in many aquatic systems, contaminate them, and enter the food chain as a result of the excessive discharge of plastic trash annually from the domestic to the industrial sector. Due to their pervasiveness, these tiny plastic particles are constantly present in freshwater environments, which are essential to human life. In this sense, microplastic pollution is seen as a worldwide problem that has a detrimental impact on every component of the freshwater environment. Microplastics act as carriers for various toxic components such as additives and other hazardous substances from industrial and urbanized areas. These microplastic-contaminated effluents are ultimately transferred into water systems and directly ingested by organisms associated with a particular ecosystem. The microplastics components also pose an indirect threat to aquatic ecosystems by adsorbing surrounding water pollutants. This review mainly focuses on the sources of microplastics, the ecotoxicity of microplastics and the impact microplastics have on aquatic and marine life, management, and bioremediation of microplastics. Policies and strategies adopted by the Govern- ment to combat microplastic pollution are also discussed in this review.
... This limits their use in industrial WWTPs. Moreover, membrane technology does not play a specific role in MF removal [98]. Therefore, a more affordable and effective means of keeping MFs out of the environment is needed. ...
The release of microfibres (MFs) from textiles has been observed in various environments, pointing towards the impact of human activities on natural systems. Synthetic textile microfibres, a subset of microplastic fibres (MPFs), are reported to be the primary contributor to microplastic pollution. With the forecasted growth in textile production, the problem of MF pollution is expected to worsen and become more challenging to address. Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) are crucial in managing microfibre pollution as they can act as a sink and source of these pollutants. Studies have shown that textile industrial effluent can contain MFs at a rate of up to a thousand times higher than municipal wastewater. As more garments are made than sold and worn, the impact of industrial MF release could be higher than predicted. The detection and quantification of microfibres released in industrial wastewater effluents do not have a standard test method, and legislation to address this issue is not yet feasible. To tackle this issue, it is crucial to raise awareness in the industry and tackle it using a more holistic approach. With its urgency, but still being an underdeveloped research area, priorities for mitigation actions are examined where efforts are needed to accelerate. These include the need to raise awareness and encourage more investigations from industry and academia. A consistent protocol will help us to compare studies and find solutions of high impact and measure MFs in WWTPs, which can help define the maximum limit for MF releases and support legislation implementation.
... This image was reproduced with permission from the reference. [36] Fig. 3 Different techniques to separate the MPs from water samples is depicted Content courtesy of Springer Nature, terms of use apply. Rights reserved. ...
Today, the world is struggling with the colossal amount of microplastics (MPs) due to the tremendous increase in the global production. Presence of MPs in the water samples, biological samples, and its potential to carry lethal chemicals raised the interest on better management of MPs. However, an effective degradation methodology is necessary to decrease the prolonged lifetime of such polymeric materials. So far, very limited reports are available on the degradation methods such as photo-oxidation, biodegradation, photo-thermal oxidative process, subsequent mechanisms involved during the degradation of MPs. Many critical challenges pertaining to those are poorly understood. Particularly, the extraction process, reliable methods to degrade MPs and their analytical techniques, level of MPs contamination in commercially caught fishes and the population at large. Here, we have revisited shortly on current MPs extraction process, various degradation methods using catalyst with their respective mechanisms. Also, the role of most common analytical methods/tools, to identify, analyse the degraded product from MPs, both environment samples and experimental samples, were elaborated. Finally, the solutions to overcome the problems were identified.
Graphical Abstract
