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Emerging microplastics in the environment: Properties, distributions, and impacts.
Kunsheng Hu1, Yangyang Yang1, Jian Zuo2
1School of Chemical Engineering and Advanced Materials, The University of Adelaide, North Terrace, Adelaide, SA, 5005, Australia.
Chemosphere
|March 1, 2022
Summary
Microplastics (MPs) are persistent environmental pollutants. This review covers MP properties, distribution, and impacts on ecosystems and human health, highlighting future research needs for pollution control.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Ecotoxicology
- Materials Science
Background:
- Microplastics (MPs) are increasingly recognized as persistent environmental micropollutants.
- Their unique properties and behaviors necessitate interdisciplinary research.
- Understanding MP impacts is crucial for environmental and human health.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the properties and environmental distribution of common microplastic types.
- To summarize the impacts of microplastics on microbial communities, plants, and humans.
- To identify challenges and future research directions for microplastic pollution control.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on microplastics.
- Synthesis of information on microplastic properties, shapes, and characteristics.
- Compilation of data on environmental distribution and ecological/toxicological impacts.
Main Results:
- Detailed overview of prevalent microplastic types, their physical and chemical properties.
- Documentation of microplastic presence across various environmental compartments.
- Summary of observed effects on biota, including microbes, plants, and potential human health risks.
Conclusions:
- Microplastic pollution is a complex, widespread environmental issue.
- Further research is needed to fully understand and mitigate microplastic impacts.
- Integrated strategies are required for effective microplastic pollution management.
