Microplastics as contaminants in Indian environment: a review

Abstract

The increased production and consumption scale of plastic items has led to the generation of microplastics (MPs), an emerging class of contaminants, in our environment. MPs are plastic particles less than 5 mm in size and could originate due to primary and secondary sources. The primary ones are generated as such in the MP size range while the secondary MPs are a result of fragmentation of larger plastic particles which eventually enters the aquatic, terrestrial and atmospheric environments. The increasing concern of MP pollution in every compartment of our environment is being globally explored, with relatively fewer studies in India. Among the total studies published on MP prevalence in the Indian environments, marine systems have received significantly higher attention compared to the other compartments like freshwater, atmosphere, terrestrial and human consumables. This review article is an effort to present current understanding of MP pollution in aquatic systems, terrestrial systems, atmosphere and human consumables of India by reviewing available scientific literature. Along with this, the review also focuses on identification of the gap areas in current knowledge and highlights way forward for future research. This would further help in meeting the goals of this emergent pollutant management.

CH4 and CO2 Emissions from the Decomposition of Microplastics in the Bottom Sediment—Preliminary Studies

“…Secondary microplastics are the result of the breakdown of large plastic particles as a result of the action of physical, chemical, biological, and environmental factors. Any piece of plastic material can be a potential source of microplastics and pollutants [5][6][7][8][9]. The presence of microplastic particles in the environment poses a threat to the environment because of the toxicity of the components of the polymer matrix leached from the plastics.…”

An assessment of microplastic contamination in beach sediment of Maharashtra State, India, with special reference to anthropogenic activities

“…Determining the various MP polymers can help to understand possible entry paths in the ocean. According to Vaid et al, PU polymer is often used in the building of ships as well as the production of related components such as insulating materials, textiles, and packaging (Vaid et al, 2021). PP plays a variety of functions in a range of industries, including fishing nets, mats, plastic containers, apparel, feed and fertilizer sacks, furniture, and medical components (Hisham A. Maddah, 2016, Jung et al, 2018).…”

Microplastics research in Nepal: Present scenario and current gaps in knowledge

“…Sediment analysis has received greater attention in studying microplastic contamination within marine systems. Regarding freshwater systems, rivers have been the primary focus of studies compared to lakes and groundwater [ 52 ]. The study of microplastic pollution in Africa began recently compared to other continents.…”