Systematic review on fate and behavior of microplastics towards the environment

Abstract

Plastics have shaped the world with their profound uses but have become a pervasive and growing problem for the environment. Fragmented plastics, including mega-, meso-, micro-, and nanoplastics, can adversely affect the environment. Plastics with a diameter <5 mm are classified as microplastics (MPs), which are an emerging environmental threat. MPs are present in freshwater and marine environments, day-to-day life ecosystems, and the bodies of humans and animals. They originate from a wide range of sources, including cosmetic products, agricultural practices, households, and other major industrial consequences. Although campaigns, government regulations, and control measures are in place, these focus on mitigating mega- and mesoplastics rather than micro- and nanoplastics. Removing MPs from the environment is highly impractical; however, controlling megaand mesoplastic wastes can significantly reduce the release of MPs into the environment. This review discusses the source, fate, and behavior of MPs in the environment as well as detection methods and control measures.