Plastic effects on marine and freshwater environments

Abstract

In the 1930s, plastic items started to acquire popularity. Since then, they have overcome many barriers and are now important to many facets of society. Post-consumer plastic, however, is an environmental problem of increasing concern. Marine and freshwater environments are being impaired by plastic pollution, which is mostly the result of improper post-use plastic disposal. Herein I review recent literature on plastic effects to marine and freshwater environments, based on a Scopus search. Authors' keywords were analyzed and mapped. Results depicted microplastics as a global concern for the environment, animals, and human health, and was identified as a primary research focus and emerging topic concerning plastic effects on marine and freshwater environments. The foremost research gap is the lack of clear connections between the effects of plastic on human health, animal health, and the environment. Water pollution and its consequences on marine and freshwater environments are attributed primarily to human activity.