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3 Ranking of some plastic polymer types based on hazard classification of constituent monomers, adapted from Lithner et al. (2011)
Source publication
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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The increasing global production and use of plastics has led to an accumulation of enormous amounts of plastic litter in the world’s oceans. Characteristics such as low density, good mechanical properties and low cost allow for successful use of plastics in industries and everyday life but the high durability leads to persistence of the synthetic p...
Future crewed missions to other planets or deep space locations will require regenerative Life Support Systems (LSS) as well as recycling processes for mission waste. Constant resupply of many commodity materials will not be a sustainable option for deep space missions, nor will stowing trash on board a vehicle or at a lunar or Martian outpost. The...
European Commission is strongly committed into issues related to plastic materials production and plastic waste management. While the Circular Economy Package has set targets generally referred to recycling rates, the European Strategy for plastics in a circular economy (and related action plan), fosters sustainability along the entire plastic valu...
Citations
... Organisms directly involved in human consumption, like produce (i.e., lettuce) and livestock (swine), have been shown to possess significant concentration amounts at a maximum of around eight orders of magnitude of MPLs per gram of produce and the lower hundreds of MPLs per gram of meat [26,27]. Lastly, for human beings, one pathway of exposure, gastrointestinal (GI), is thought [28] to be size-dependent, with the mechanisms in the gut elucidated to be through Peyer's patches and paracellular uptake of microfold (M) cells. Retention time would vary between the charge nature of these particles, though uptake through dermal contact and pulmonary uptake is theorized as a pathway of inundation potentially complicating kinetics. ...
Microplastics (MPLs) and nanoplastics (NPLs) are smaller particles derived from larger plastic material, polymerization, or refuse. In context to environmental health, they are separated into the industrially-created “primary” category or the degradation derivative “secondary” category where the particles exhibit different physiochemical characteristics that attenuate their toxicities. However, some particle types are more well documented in terms of their fate in the environment and potential toxicological effects (secondary) versus their industrial fabrication and chemical characterization (primary). Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR/µ-FTIR), Raman/µ-Raman, Proton Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (H-NMR), Curie Point-Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (CP-gc-MS), Induced Coupled Plasma-Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS), Nanoparticle Tracking Analysis (NTA), Field Flow Fractionation-Multiple Angle Light Scattering (FFF-MALS), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), Thermogravimetry (TGA), Differential Mobility Particle [Sizing] (DMPS), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM), Transmission Electron Microscopy (TEM), and Scanning Transmission X-ray Microspectroscopy (STXM) are reviewed as part of a suite of characterization methods for physiochemical ascertainment and distinguishment. In addition, Optical-Photothermal Infrared Microspectroscopy (O-PTIR), Z-Stack Confocal Microscopy, Mueller Matrix Polarimetry, and Digital Holography (DH) are touched upon as a suite of cutting-edge modes of characterization. Organizations, like the water treatment or waste management industry, and those in groups that bring awareness to this issue, which are in direct contact with the hydrosphere, can utilize these techniques in order to sense and remediate this plastic polymer pollution. The primary goal of this review paper is to highlight the extent of plastic pollution in the environment as well as introduce its effect on the biodiversity of the planet while underscoring current characterization techniques in this field of research. The secondary goal involves illustrating current and theoretical avenues in which future research needs to address and optimize MPL/NPL remediation, utilizing nanotechnology, before this sleeping giant of a problem awakens.
... Humans are frequently exposed to microplastics. consumption of contaminated food, can expose one to MPs (Galloway 2015).Microplastics are present in foods like, seafood (Li et al. 2015a, b), fish (Li et al. 2020a, b, c), drinking water (Pivokonsky et al. 2018), eggs , fruits and vegetables (Oliveri Conti et al. 2020), milk (Kutralam-Muniasamy et al. 2020a). According to (Cho et al. 2019), Koreans consume 212 particles per person each year from the consumption of oysters, mussels, and manila clams, with China having a greater ingestion rate (Li et al. 2015a, b). ...
Small plastic particles like Microplastics have become a global environmental concern including in Bangladesh due to their persistence in the environment and potential harm to aquatic lives and human health. This article aims to provide a comprehensive review of the current scenario of microplastic pollution and explores the sources, distribution, and impacts of microplastic pollution on human health, marine, and terrestrial ecosystems as well as utilizes a systematic literature review method to identify and analyze the available research on microplastic pollution in Bangladeshi perspective. The results show plastic waste mismanagement, such as inadequate waste collection, disposal, and recycling as the origin of microplastic pollution. The article examines the distribution of microplastics in various environmental matrices such as water bodies, soil, and biota and discusses the potential ecological and human health impacts of microplastic pollution in Bangladesh. Moreover, the study highlights the potential risks of microplastic ingestion by aquaticorganisms, such as shrimp, crabs, and fish which ultimately affect human health through the food chain. The study suggests several mitigation strategies including improving waste management practices, promoting public awareness, developing policies and regulations to reduce plastic use, and increasing recycling. Overall, this review contributes to the existing knowledge on microplastic pollution in Bangladesh and provides useful insights for policymakers, researchers, and practitioners to develop effective strategies for mitigating this environmental problem. However, the involvement of all stakeholders including policymakers, industries, and the general public is necessary to achieve a sustainable and healthy environment for the country.
... Micro-and nano-plastics are those polymeric particles that have a size dithering between 1 µm to 5mm or less than 100 nm, correspondingly. Additionally, they appear in different shapes like microbeads, fibers, fragments, film foam pellets besides filaments (Galloway, 2015;Kim et al., 2023;Oliveira et al., 2022;Tirkey & Upadhyay, 2021). The reduced size of nanoparticles reflects an increased surfaceto-volume ratio culminating into their hazardous nature due to their capacity to absorb organic pollutants as well as endure bioaccumulation (da Costa et al., 2016). ...
The dissemination of miniaturized plastics, both micro- and nano-plastics, athwart diverse ecosystems is an argument of global apprehension. The accretion of these plastics is due to their chemical steadiness. In arrears to their trivial size, frequently identification of miniaturized plastics is very problematic. The foremost approaches for identification of micro- and-nano plastics rely upon their visual inspection through microscopy and chemical analysis. The advent of high-throughput computing has eased the detection of miniaturized plastic pollution. Machine learning and computer vision methods are being readily applied for analyzing microscopy images to identify and classify microplastics. Molecular simulation methods are also being applied for studying the interaction between environment and microplastics. Additionally, remote sensing methods have also been used to collect and analyze suspected locations of microplastic pollution.
... These microplastic particles can breach various parts of the body such as they can cross the placental barrier and enter into the fetus. It can also cross the blood-brain barrier and the plasma membrane which ultimately leads to several health issues [16]. Thus, plastic particles are made up of two basic types of molecules that can be micro molecules having low molecular weight and high molecular mass containing macromolecules. ...
Plastics derived from fossil fuels are an important part of modern life and it is the most commonly used material in every industrial sector. The use of plastics is increasing day by day and its degradation has become a great challenge. Moreover, non-degradable plastic polymers tend to accumulate as waste in the environment posing a major ecological threat and climate change issues. Therefore, the identification of microbes that can grow easily on plastic and the novel biological agents with exert degradative potential on plastic material have been reviewd herein. In light of these, the enzymatic process can lead to the conversion of plastic into water, carbon dioxide, and methane as a byproduct. Furthermore, fossil fuels utilized to make plastic items are going to be shortened, therefore scientists are finding novel biobased alternatives. In this regard, starch can be promising biopolymer for bioplastic synthesis after understanding underlysing the biological deterioration process and biotic as well as abiotic mechanisms. Hence, this review specifically presents an extensive evaluation of bioplastic from animal waste that can bring revolutionary changes in the environment to mitigate the climate changes.
... Under varying ecological situations, the different exposure routes of microplastics are through nose, mouth and skin. Humans are mostly exposed to microplastics through ingestion (Galloway, 2015). A person may intake 39,000-52,000 particles of microplastics through food in a year. ...
Zoology: Advancements and Research Trends is a comprehensive compilation of cutting-edge research and insights in the field of Zoology. This book has been meticulously curated to serve as an invaluable resource for students, researchers, and professionals who are keen to explore the latest advancements and emerging trends in various sub-disciplines of Zoology, including toxicology, pharmacology, and general zoology. As an Assistant Professor in the Department of Zoology, Wildlife, and Fisheries at the University of Agriculture, Faisalabad, I, Dr. Muhammad Umar Ijaz, have dedicated over a decade to advancing our understanding of animal physiology, cell biology, toxicology and pharmacology. My extensive experience in these fields, coupled with my broader expertise in general zoology, has provided me with a profound appreciation for the complex interplay between living organisms and their environments. This book reflects my commitment to bringing together a diverse array of topics that highlight the breadth and depth of contemporary zoological research. Zoology: Advancements and Research Trends is not just a collection of research topics but a reflection of the collaborative spirit that drives scientific progress. The diverse expertise of the contributing authors ensures that this book offers a well-rounded perspective on the current trends and future directions in Zoology. I hope that this book will serve as a valuable reference for those in academia and industry, providing insights that will inspire future research and contribute to the ongoing dialogue in the field. It is my sincere belief that the knowledge shared within these pages will help shape the future of Zoology, ultimately contributing to the betterment of our understanding and stewardship of the natural world. I would like to express my gratitude to all the contributors, reviewers, and colleagues whose efforts have made this book possible. I also extend my thanks to the students and researchers who continue to push the boundaries of what we know and what we can achieve in this dynamic field.
... Nor have technological innovations alleviated concerns about the toxicity of plastics. They continue to leach an assortment of chemicals from those additives that impart greater plasticity -ones that disrupt endocrine and hormone production, cause cancer, and impede immune response, among other effects (Galloway 2015;Halden 2010). ...
Here I will explore the contradictions raised by small plastic things forgotten, to paraphrase historical archaeologist James Deetz (1977), which were born from scientific innovation, entrepreneurial incentive, and concern for public health. The dental flosser, toothbrush, birth control pack, tampon and menstrual pad, condom wrapper, sanitising wipe, medical syringe, and surgical mask all qualify as mundane, taken‑for‑granted artefacts ripe for archaeological inquiry. I consider a few of these things in greater depth. To frame my discussion, I draw on ideas about biopower, a concept developed by Michel Foucault and taken up by subsequent writers. I argue that biopowered plastic things marshalled in the service of public health present a conundrum. Science‑based evidence supports their efficacy for safeguarding lives. Yet, because they represent techniques of power designed to control individuals with the aim of a more pliant, cohesive body politic (much like plastic as it moves from mouldable to hardened), these things engender pushback from the resistant, critical, opportunistic, and misinformed; ideologies and authorities are never absolute...
... The plastic mats tend to accumulate contaminants, including persistent organic pollutants (POPs), heavy metals, algae, fungi and bacteria, including pathogenic bacteria [7]. Literature indicates that contaminants can potentially affect a variety of species, especially marine ones [12][13][14], yet literature with empirical data documenting the extent and health consequences of exposure to contaminants of plastic in humans is scarce [15,16]. ...
Background
Israel is a regional "hotspot" of plastic pollution, with little discussion of potential adverse health effects from exposure to plastic. This review aims to stimulate discussion and drive policy by focusing on these adverse health effects.
Main body
Plastics are synthetic polymers containing additives which can leach from food- and beverage-contact plastic into our food and beverages, and from plastic textiles onto our skin. Plastics persist in the environment for generations, fragmenting into MNPs: Micro (1 micron–5 mm)-Nano (1 nm–1 micron)-Plastic, which contaminate our atmosphere, water, and food chain. MNP can enter the human body through ingestion, inhalation and touch. MNP < 10 microns can cross epithelial barriers in the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems, and fragments < 100 nm can cross intact skin, enabling entry into body tissues. MNP have been found in multiple organs of the human body. Patients with MNP in atheromas of carotid arteries have increased risk of a combined measure of stroke, cardiovascular disease, and death. Toxic additives to plastics include bisphenols, phthalates, and PFAS, endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) which cause dysregulation of thyroid function, reproduction, and metabolism, including increased risk of obesity, diabetes, endometriosis, cancer, and decreased fertility, sperm count and quality. Fetal exposure to EDCs is associated with increased rates of miscarriages, prematurity and low birth weight. There is likely no safe level of exposure to EDCs, with increasing evidence of trans-generational and epigenetic effects. There are several existing Israeli laws to reduce plastic use and waste. Taxes on single-use plastic (SUP) were recently cancelled. There are many gaps in regulatory standards for food-, beverage- and child- safe plastic. Existing standards are poorly enforced.
Conclusion
Reduction in production and use of plastic, promotion of recycling and reduction of leaching of toxic additives into our food and beverages are essential policy goals. Specific recommendations: Periodic monitoring of MNP in bottled beverages, food, indoor air; Strengthen enforcement of standards for food-, beverage-, and child-safe plastic; Renew tax on SUPs; National ban on SUP at public beaches, nature reserves and parks; Ban products manufactured with MNP; Increase research on sources and health outcomes of exposure to MNP and EDCs.
... Due to its detrimental effects on marine ecosystems, microplastic pollution has become a major environmental problem on a worldwide scale, drawing the attention of both scientists and policymakers [10,26]. These tiny plastic particles, which are smaller than 5 mm, come from a variety of places, including industrial discharges, microbeads in personal care products, and the disintegration of bigger plastic objects [6]. ...
... Generally, plastic debris entershumans directly or indirectly through parasites as vectors and causes particle toxicity and chemical toxicity (Vethaak and Leslie, 2016). Using the animal model studies, the researchers proved that microplastic traverse into the cell membranes, the blood-brain barrier, and even the human placenta results in oxidative stress, lung and gut injury, cell damage, and inflammation (Kershaw and Rochman, 2015;Gasperi et al., 2015;McCormick et al., 2014;Galloway, 2015). Geyer et al., (2017) published the first global data on the production, usage and end-of-life of plastics. ...
... the pollution that occurs in agricultural soils is anticipated to result in human exposure to MPs through the transport of particles by wind or the contamination of food and clean water resources [9]. The primary mode of human exposure to MPs is through ingestion [9], while the literature suggests that the estimated MPs intake is 39,000-52,000 particles per person -1 year -1 [10]. ...
... the pollution that occurs in agricultural soils is anticipated to result in human exposure to MPs through the transport of particles by wind or the contamination of food and clean water resources [9]. The primary mode of human exposure to MPs is through ingestion [9], while the literature suggests that the estimated MPs intake is 39,000-52,000 particles per person -1 year -1 [10]. The vulnerability of soil systems to the growing prevalence and accumulation of MPs was highlighted in 2021 by Lehmann et al., proposing the inclusion of a plastic screening procedure in soil assessments to serve as an indicator of the escalating presence and rates of MPs [11]. ...
Long-term study of wildfires on the Ionian islands, Greece with combined use of remote sensing and machine learning methods, for the interpretation and evaluation of the phenomenon dynamics
