Microplastics contamination in water supply system and treatment processes

Area of Science:

• Environmental Science
• Public Health
• Materials Science

Background:

• Global plastic consumption leads to widespread microplastic (MP) environmental contamination.
• Microplastics are frequently detected in drinking water sources, including bottled water.
• Potential human health impacts from MP exposure require thorough assessment.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review the presence and potential human impacts of microplastics in water supplies.
• To assess the efficacy of current technologies for microplastic removal from drinking water.
• To propose integrated management strategies for addressing microplastic contamination in water.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature review of microplastic presence in water.
• Analysis of current water treatment technologies for microplastic removal.
• Evaluation of exposure assessment studies on human health impacts.
• Review of management strategies including life-cycle assessment and circular economy principles.

Main Results:

• Microplastics are prevalent in drinking and bottled water globally.
• Existing water treatment technologies face challenges in complete microplastic removal.
• The full extent of human health risks from microplastic ingestion is still under investigation but predicted to be negative.
• A range of treatment technologies, from basic to advanced, exist but are not universally effective.

Conclusions:

• Effective removal of microplastics from drinking water remains a significant technological challenge.
• Comprehensive management strategies, integrating current technologies with life-cycle assessment, circular economy, and machine learning, are essential.
• Proactive measures are crucial to mitigate the pervasive issue of microplastic contamination in water supplies and protect public health.