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Microplastic pollution in Bangladesh: Research and management needs
Tariqul Islam1, Yanliang Li2, Md Mahfuzur Rob3
1School of Environment and Civil Engineering, Dongguan University of Technology, Dongguan, Guangdong, China; MOE Laboratory for Earth Surface Processes, College of Urban and Environmental Sciences, Peking University, Beijing, China; Department of Agricultural Construction and Environmental Engineering, Sylhet Agricultural University, Sylhet, 3100, Bangladesh.
Environmental Pollution (Barking, Essex : 1987)
|July 2, 2022
Summary
Microplastic pollution is widespread in Bangladesh
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Ecotoxicology
- Marine Biology
Background:
- Microplastics pose a significant threat to biodiversity and ecosystems globally.
- Bangladesh faces substantial microplastic pollution in its inland and marine environments.
- Despite a plastic bag ban in 2002, microplastic contamination persists.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review research on microplastic separation, characterization, occurrence, and sources in Bangladesh.
- To identify knowledge gaps and research priorities for microplastic pollution in the region.
- To inform risk assessment and management strategies for microplastic contamination.
Main Methods:
- Literature review of existing studies on microplastics in Bangladesh.
- Analysis of reported microplastic types, polymers, and sources.
- Synthesis of data on occurrence and distribution in various environmental compartments.
Main Results:
- Microplastics are ubiquitous in Bangladesh's aquatic environments, primarily from secondary sources.
- Fibers from textile sources dominate observed microplastics.
- Polyethylene (PE), PET, polypropylene (PP), and PVC are the most prevalent polymers.
Conclusions:
- Further research is crucial to understand the ecotoxicological effects and fate of microplastics.
- Comprehensive risk assessments are needed for local ecosystems and human health.
- Effective plastic waste management and recycling are essential to mitigate pollution in Bangladesh.
