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3 Ranking of some plastic polymer types based on hazard classification of constituent monomers, adapted from Lithner et al. (2011)
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Plastics are highly versatile materials that have brought huge societal benefits. They can be manufactured at low cost and their lightweight and adaptable nature has a myriad of applications in all aspects of everyday life, including food packaging, consumer products, medical devices and construction. By 2050, however, it is anticipated that an ext...
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... Therefore, particulate matter and substances from protecting coatings and/or the blade material itself (normally glass-or carbon fibres in combination with epoxy resins for reinforcement (Otto et al., 2023;Solberg et al., 2021)) may be released into the environment . Importantly, the release of such particles with a higher surface area to volume ratio than the original coatings, can result in increased leaching of the chemicals they contain since leaching mainly occurs at the particle surface (Galloway, 2015). ...
Offshore wind energy may offer many advantages: next to the aim of renewable energy production, offshore wind farms (OWFs) enable multi-purpose opportunities with nature conservation and aquaculture. OWFs may also affect the marine ecosystem. The environmental impact of OWFs is starting to be investigated regarding the effect of novel habitat introduction, underwater noise, electromagnetic fields, or exclusion of fisheries. However, the impact of chemical emissions from OWFs remains largely unknown. It is essential to account for these emissions at an early stage, to comprehensively assess the environmental impact with the objective of developing a future fit-for-purpose regulatory framework to protect the marine environment. This review compiled a literature-based list of potential OWF-related chemical emissions containing >200 organic and inorganic contaminants, including polymers. Compounds are categorised according to data source and emission type. Major gaps in assessing the impact of the compounds are identified, including challenges in environmental monitoring, numerical modelling and assessing the toxicity of individual and mixtures of chemical contaminants on marine organisms and humans consuming potential OWF aquaculture products. A risk-based prioritisation is essential to target the compounds of higher concern and overcome costs linked to assessing a wide variety of chemical contaminants. Although some countries have regulations to reduce OWF chemical emissions, standardized impact assessments or monitoring requirements for OWF-based chemical contaminants have not been established. This stresses the importance of providing more detailed information on occurrence, distribution and impact of OWF chemical emissions as an essential step towards sound ecosystem-based management of OWF installations.
... The widespread distribution of MPs in the environment is concerning, but equally alarming is the growing body of evidence indicating that MP exposure can have a range of negative effects on organisms, such as cardiac toxicity [96], endocrine disruption [4], gastrointestinal inflammation [119], reproductive disorders [70], and even death [2]. The hydrophobicity, small particle size, and high surface area of MPs make them more likely to adsorb organic pollutants (e.g., Polychlorinated biphenyls, malachite green, etc.) [23,50,82], inorganic pollutants (e.g., Fe, Al, Cr⁶⁺, etc.) [78,81,90], or release additives from the plastic itself [25]. The combined toxicity of MPs and chemical pollutants may pose even more severe adverse effects on organisms [15]. ...
Microplastics (MPs) are emerging environmental pollutants that pose a significant threat to wildlife within forest ecosystems. However, the quantity and types of MPs in wildlife forest habitats remain unclear. This study is the first to assess the distribution of MPs in the Amur tiger habitat of northeast China. Our results showed that MPs were detected in soil, water, atmosphere, forage plants, and ungulate and top predator feces within the forest ecosystem, respectively. The average diameter of all detected MPs was 44.99 ± 34.80μm. The predominant polymers found in the samples were polyamide, polyvinyl chloride, and polyurethane. Certain sample types shared similar MP polymer type distributions, indicating potential links in their sources and transfer pathways. Consequently, these findings provide some new insights on the new pollution problem in Amur tiger forest habitats and prompt us to consider how to control and manage the MPs pollution sources in the tiger conservation.
... Marine wildlife suffers from entanglement and ingestion of debris, with micro-particles potentially affecting marine food chains up to the level of human consumers (e.g. Galloway 2015). Ingestion of debris is common among a wide range of marine species including many seabirds, marine mammals and turtles (Kühn et al. 2015;Kühn & Van Franeker 2020). ...
... Since fish are a vital source of protein for humans, the presence of microplastics in aquatic environments could affect food security, thereby affecting human health and wellbeing (Wright and Kelly 2017;Barboza et al. 2018aBarboza et al. , 2018b. Small particles have been shown to pass through cell membranes, the blood-brain barrier, and the placenta, leading to OS, cell damage, cytotoxicity, inflammation, and impaired energy distribution in marine organisms (Galloway 2015;Wright and Kelly 2017). The accumulation of MPs and nano-plastics in tissues causes swelling and obstruction (Wang et al. 2020). ...
The widespread contamination of aquatic environments by microplastics (MPs), alongside other pollutants, has emerged as a critical global concern, posing significant risks to fish populations. This study investigated the impacts of microplastic ingestion on the phenotypic traits, survival rates, and antioxidant activities of juvenile Nile tilapia (Oreochromis niloticus). Three experimental groups were established: (T1) a control group fed a standard commercial diet (4% of body weight) twice daily, (T2) a group fed a mixed diet of 2% commercial pellets and 2% MPs twice daily, and (T3) a group fed 4% commercial pellets on the first day, no feed on the second day, and 4% MPs added directly to the water on the third day. Results demonstrated that tilapia exposed to MPs exhibited significantly lower survival rates, decreased body weight, reduced standard length, smaller eye diameters, and diminished body areas compared to the control group (P < 0.05). Furthermore, MP-exposed fish displayed elevated superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity and reduced catalase activity, indicating altered antioxidant defense mechanisms. Proximate analysis revealed no significant differences in crude protein, moisture, and lipid content among the groups (P > 0.05), except for ash content, which was significantly higher in MP-exposed fish (P < 0.01). Geometric morphometric analysis did not reveal significant shape variations among the groups (P > 0.05), although the control group exhibited a significantly larger centroid size (an indicator of overall body size) than the MP-exposed groups (P < 0.05). These findings suggest that microplastic ingestion can have detrimental effects on the survival, growth, antioxidant status, and body composition of juvenile tilapia. This study underscores the critical need to consider the potential impacts of microplastic pollution on tilapia farming practices in the open water system.
... Today's most commonly used plastic polymers are highly resistant to the degradation process. Coupled with adsorbed complex persistent pollutants, marine plastic debris is a risk to the environment and human health (Galloway, 2015). ...
Marine plastic debris, particularly microplastics (MPs), is an urgent and significant threat to the global marine environment. The emergence of MPs in the marine environment and their potential presence in human-consumed seafood necessitates immediate investigation. In light of this, a study was conducted on the occurrence of MPs in shellfish collected from two locations in Makassar Strait with distinct oceanographic conditions. Three commonly consumed shellfish species (Perna viridis, Meretrix meretrix, and Mactra chinensis) were collected by fishermen and examined for microplastic contamination, with a total sample size of 170 individuals. Microplastics were extracted from the soft tissue of the bivalves using the alkaline digestion method. The results revealed a significantly higher number of microplastics ingested by P. viridis and M. chinensis in samples collected from the Sanrobengi Islands (14.64 MPs/individual and 2.29 MPs/individual, respectively), compared to the P. viridis and M. meretrix from Mandalle coastal area (0.70 MPs/individual and 1.00 MPs/individual, respectively). The predominant microplastic form detected was blue microfibres. A prevalence of MP contamination between 58 and 100% and the results of Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis indicated that polystyrene was the dominant polymer present, threatening the welfare of the bivalve mollusks and posing potential health risks to seafood consumers. The results emphasize the urgent need for pollution control measures such as reducing plastic waste discharges and improving waste management systems. In addition, a comprehensive study focusing on the long-term ecological and health effects of microplastic pollution is necessary to guide future policy interventions.
... It can also alter gut microbiota and potentially trigger immune responses in both marine organisms and humans [39]. However, the potential long-term health effects on human health from exposure to MPs remain poorly understood, and this information, along with the results obtained from studies of population dietary habits, plays a key role in helping to assess consumer risk, necessitating further research into their potential for systemic toxicity and bioaccumulation [35,41]. ...
... In addition, there is an urgent need to develop standardized methodologies for MP detection and characterization to facilitate comparisons across different studies and regions, which is critical for developing effective mitigation strategies [8]. This is a persistent issue that requires coordinated efforts at both national and international levels [22,35,41]. ...
... • Standardizing detection protocols: Establishing internationally recognized methodologies for MP characterization to enable cross-study comparisons [8]. • Assessing long-term toxicity: Conducting studies to determine the chronic effects of MP exposure on marine organisms and humans, particularly concerning bioaccumulation and systemic toxicity [33,41]. • Evaluating ecological impact: Investigating the effects of MP ingestion on marine biodiversity, trophic transfer, and food web stability [15,32,42]. ...
Plastic marine litter is a critical issue that threatens marine ecosystems. This study investigated microplastics (MPs) contamination in the Italian seas, involving regions significantly affected by pollution from urban, industrial and agricultural sources. The research, conducted in collaborations between 10 different Experimental Zooprophylactic Institutes throughout Italy, analyzed Mytilus galloprovincialis (common mussels) for its filtration capacity and suitability as a bioindicator. Using data from two projects funded by the Italian Ministry of Health, MPs were detected from 7% to 13% of mussel samples, mainly polypropylene and polystyrene fragments and fibers. These findings align with previous studies highlighting the pervasive presence of MPs and their potential risks as mussels are consumed whole, allowing MPs to be ingested. The study underscores the need for standardized detection methods and coordinated policies to mitigate plastic pollution. Public awareness campaigns and improved waste management practices are key to addressing the environmental and health impacts of MPs. Further research on the long-term effects of MPs on marine ecosystems and human health is essential to developing comprehensive mitigation strategies.
... We all are directly or indirectly exposed to the plastic particles or pollutants from drinking water, air, and foods. Various seafoods, poultry, and marine products, and even humans, would be exposed to plastic particles (Galloway, 2015;Kershaw & Rochman, 2015). There have been several published reports regarding the microplastic presence in everyday edibles such as drinking water, sugar, honey, salt, and beer Liebezeit, 2013 andYang et al., 2015;Kosuth et al., 2017) and mostly in seafood (Smith et al., 2018;Van Cauwenberghe & Janssen, 2014). ...
... Bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates are known to be endocrine disruptors and adversely affect after ingestion and inhalation that we used too commonly in our packaged containers (Galloway, 2015;Kershaw & Rochman, 2015). BPA was found to be a leading cause of developing breast cancer (Shafei et al., 2018). ...
The primary source of the growing concern regarding marine, aquatic, and land pollution is plastic products, the majority of which are made of synthetic or semi-synthetic organic compounds. These combinations include materials like coal and natural gas that are obtained through petrochemical processes. As these two types of plastic-derived products are produced and disposed of, they have a major impact on the ecosystems. According to recent figures, around 400 million tons of plastic and related products derived from plastic are produced annually, and it became double in the last two decades. Plastic pollutants are introduced into ecosystems by a variety of stakeholders at different points in their daily lives, whether intentionally or accidentally. They have become a major source of adverse effects, toxicity development in natural entities, and problems. The aquatic, marine, and land ecosystems are vital to human existence, which emphasizes how difficult it is to stop pollution from it. This review highlights the adverse impacts of plastics, plastic-based products, and micro-nanoplastics on aquatic, terrestrial, and marine ecosystems while addressing advances in biodegradable plastics, recycling innovations, plastic-degrading enzymes, and sustainable solutions to reduce environmental risks.
... To enhance plastic durability or performance, additives are added that may be associated with toxicity [23]. Once ingested or inhaled, microplastics can accumulate in tissues and bodily fluids, leading to inflammation and other adverse biological effects [24]. ...
ntroduction: The universal problem of microplastic pollution has drawn significant global attention in recent years. The detection of these tiny plastic particles in drinking water raises concerns about
FTIR, Scanning possible health hazards and emphasizes the need for a thorough investigation into their origins,
distribution, and effects on human health.
Objective: The present study aimed to detect the presence of microplastics in drinking water from various sources including bottled water from 2 branded companies and one local brand and tap water.
Methods: By using field water testing kit developed by the Tamilnadu Water Supply and Drainage Board (TWAD) the water samples were analyzed for parameters such as pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), turbidity, conductivity, temperature, phosphate, chlorine, ammonia, nitrate, fluoride, and iron. Additionally, the water samples were filtered through membrane filtration techniques to detect the microplastics in the water samples. The membrane was further analyzed for the presence of microplastic using FTIR (Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy), XRD (X-ray Diffraction), and SEM (Scanning Electron Microscopy)
Results: FTIR results revealed the presence of some contaminants in the water samples. SEM analysis revealed particle size of 2μm which may confirm the presence of microplastics in the water samples. The XRD pattern exhibited an amorphous or semi-crystalline peak, further indicating that microplastics may be present. It is suggested that microplastics may have been introduced into the water samples during processing.
... Most related studies have documented MPs in the gut, an organ not directly consumed by humans. However, the risk of ingesting MPs contained within other tissues depends on the degree of uptake of MPs and their translocation, redistribution, and retention within other body tissues [156]. ...
The textile industry faces challenges caused by microplastic fibre (MPF) pollution. Urgent measures and interventions are needed to mitigate the release of MPFs throughout the textile lifecycle. Obstacles arise when implementing action plans that impede stakeholders from taking the appropriate steps. Standardised test methodologies to support the control of release are still in their infancy for application in the broader industry. The contribution of domestic and industrial wastewater to microfibre pollution is ambiguous, so considering natural fibres alongside synthetic alternatives has amplified the complexity. Instead of awaiting perfect solutions, the industry should prioritise implementing effective mitigation strategies without delay, including raising public awareness, fostering collaboration, integrating policies, improving wastewater treatment infrastructure, and supporting technological advancement. Selected sustainability initiatives that align with this agenda are utilised to generate insights and expedite actions.
... Microplastics originate from a variety of sources, including the breakdown of larger plastic debris, the shedding of microbeads from personal care products, and the release of synthetic fibers from textiles during washing (Rochman, 2016). Consequently, these tiny plastic particles are ubiquitous in aquatic habitats, posing a significant challenge to marine and freshwater ecosystems (Galloway, 2015). The entry of microplastics into aquatic environments occurs through multiple pathways, such as direct discharge from industrial activities, runoff from land-based sources, and atmospheric deposition (Jambeck, 2015). ...
... These particles are classified based on their size into two main categories: primary microplastics, which are intentionally manufactured at a small scale for products such as cosmetics and cleaning agents, and secondary microplastics, which result from the degradation of larger plastic items (Cole et al., 2011). Primary microplastics are commonly found in personal care products like facial scrubs, toothpaste, and shower gels, where they serve as exfoliants or additives (Galloway, 2015). Once these products are washed down drains, the microbeads enter wastewater systems and eventually make their way into rivers, lakes, and oceans, contributing to the contamination of aquatic environments (Jambeck et al., 2015). ...
... Another major source of microplastics in aquatic ecosystems is the shedding of microbeads from personal care and cosmetic products, which are designed to exfoliate or provide texture in items like facial scrubs, toothpaste, and body wash (Galloway, 2015). After use, these microbeads are rinsed down drains and enter wastewater systems, ultimately reaching rivers, lakes, and oceans where they contribute to the microplastic load in aquatic habitats. ...
Microplastics have emerged as a significant environmental concern, particularly in aquatic ecosystems. This chapter provides a comprehensive review of the bioaccumulation and ecological risk assessment of microplastics in aquatic environments. It begins with an overview of the characteristics and sources of microplastics, highlighting their prevalence in water bodies worldwide. The pathways through which microplastics enter and move through aquatic ecosystems are discussed, emphasizing the diverse sources such as plastic debris fragmentation, microbeads from personal care products, and synthetic fibers from textile materials. The chapter investigates the bioaccumulation of microplastics in various aquatic organisms, exploring how these synthetic particles are ingested, accumulated, and transported within food webs. The ecological risks associated with microplastics are analyzed, including impacts on aquatic life, ecosystem functioning, and potential effects on human health through the food chain. Methodologies for assessing ecological risks of microplastics are reviewed, encompassing both laboratory experiments and field studies that aim to quantify exposure levels and biological effects. Case studies and examples from different aquatic ecosystems are presented to provide real-world insights into the bioaccumulation patterns and ecological implications of microplastics. Lastly, the chapter discusses mitigation strategies and future directions for addressing the challenges posed by microplastics in aquatic environments, emphasizing the importance of interdisciplinary approaches and global cooperation to safeguard marine and freshwater ecosystems from this pervasive threat.
