Wastewater treatment plant as microplastics release source - Quantification and identification techniques

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Ecotoxicology
• Water Treatment Technology

Background:

• Microplastics (MPs) pose a global threat to aquatic life and human health due to their pervasive presence and bioaccumulation.
• Wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs), despite high MP removal efficiency, are major sources of MPs released into aquatic environments via effluents.
• MPs retained in biosolids can contaminate soil when applied as fertilizers, creating a dual pollution pathway.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the significance of WWTPs as a primary source of microplastic pollution.
• To review and summarize existing methodologies for microplastic classification and identification.
• To address the lack of standardized protocols in microplastic analysis.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of scientific publications on microplastics in WWTPs.
• Analysis of data concerning MP removal efficiencies and release rates from WWTPs.
• Compilation and comparison of current techniques for microplastic separation and identification.

Main Results:

• WWTP effluents and biosolids are significant pathways for microplastic environmental dissemination.
• The quantity of MPs released varies based on WWTP configuration, population served, and influent flow.
• Existing microplastic separation and identification techniques lack standardized protocols, leading to data variability.

Conclusions:

• WWTPs are critical control points for microplastic pollution, necessitating focused research and management strategies.
• Standardization of microplastic analysis methods is crucial for accurate risk assessment and effective mitigation.
• Further investigation into MP fate and transport from WWTPs is essential for protecting aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems.