Microplastics in ecological system: Their prevalence, health effects, and remediation

Abstract

Water is a fundamental component of human physiological processes, playing a crucial role in functions such as nutrient assimilation and metabolic activities. Furthermore, it plays a crucial role in guaranteeing a plentiful food supply for all organisms. In addition to its duty in providing nutrition, water serves as a home for many life forms and plays a vital part in establishing a conducive living environment. However, the introduction of plastic materials has led to the occurrence of microplastics (MPs) in aquatic environments, which has become a global issue that has attracted significant interest from both the scientific community and the general public. The increasing worldwide demand for plastics can be ascribed to its multifunctionality in commercial and industrial contexts, combined with its cost-effectiveness. Members of Parliament have been identified through multiple sources, including but not limited to cosmetic products, industrial wastes, and fishing operations. The primary aim of this research is to conduct a thorough examination of the consequences resulting from the widespread presence of MPs on both terrestrial and marine ecosystems, as well as the impact on human welfare. Therefore, it is crucial to develop efficient mitigation measures in order to remove MPs from water reservoirs, protect ecological integrity, and provide a safer environment for future generations. Furthermore, this work evaluates the benefits and limitations of utilized methodologies, elucidating the inherent difficulties in MPs research that require resolution in order to achieve a thorough comprehension of these particles. International collaboration plays a crucial role in efficiently resolving concerns related to marine pollutants, as they have the ability to disperse by wind and sea currents, leading to possible repercussions that are difficult to predict.