Microplastics’ origin, distribution, and rising hazard to aquatic organisms and human health: Socio-economic insinuations and management solutions

Abstract

In recent years, environmental protection has focused heavily on the nature of microplastics and their detrimental implications. The purpose of this paper is to present an overview of the available literature on this rapidly expanding topic, with a focus on the established human health and environmental (marine, freshwater, air, and soil) effects of microplastics, as well as a discussion of the economic obstacles and methods for addressing this problem. Because of their small size, multi-coloured, and plentiful properties, microplastics can be found in numerous trophic levels of the food web, as well as in various organs of sick animals, according to the study. As a result, microplastics represent serious health concerns to marine species and humans through cytotoxicity, acute reactions, and unfavourable immunological responses. Aquaculture, agriculture, fisheries, transportation, industrial sectors, power generation, tourism, and local governments are all affected, resulting in significant economic losses. Microplastics can be reduced by identifying important sources of environmental plastic pollution and educating the public, hence lowering microplastics transmission into the environment. Furthermore, utilizing the potential of microorganisms, particularly those from marine sources that can digest plastics, could provide a more effective and environmentally friendly method of reducing microplastic pollution.