Plastics and Micro/Nano-Plastics (MNPs) in the Environment: Occurrence, Impact, and Toxicity

Abstract

Plastics, due to their varied properties, find use in different sectors such as agriculture, packaging, pharmaceuticals, textiles, and construction, to mention a few. Excessive use of plastics results in a lot of plastic waste buildup. Poorly managed plastic waste (as shown by heaps of plastic waste on dumpsites, in free spaces, along roads, and in marine systems) and the plastic in landfills, are just a fraction of the plastic waste in the environment. A complete picture should include the micro and nano-plastics (MNPs) in the hydrosphere, biosphere, lithosphere, and atmosphere, as the current extreme weather conditions (which are effects of climate change), wear and tear, and other factors promote MNP formation. MNPs pose a threat to the environment more than their pristine counterparts. This review highlights the entry and occurrence of primary and secondary MNPs in the soil, water and air, together with their aging. Furthermore, the uptake and internalization, by plants, animals, and humans are discussed, together with their toxicity effects. Finally, the future perspective and conclusion are given. The material utilized in this work was acquired from published articles and the internet using keywords such as plastic waste, degradation, microplastic, aging, internalization, and toxicity.

Plastic and Micro/Nanoplastic Pollution in Sub-Saharan Africa: Challenges, Impacts, and Solutions

“…MNPs migrate from various sources, including landfill disposals, street runoff, atmospheric deposition, and agricultural activities. They are also released into the atmosphere through urban dust, agricultural dust, fiber shedding from synthetic clothing or plastic material, particles blown from inadequately managed landfills, abrasion from synthetic rubber tires, waste incineration, and emissions from synthetic polymer industries [15,16]. Eventually, both soil-bound and airborne MNPs are transported into aquatic systems through runoff [17].…”

“…The MPs are predominantly composed of fibers, fragments, and films. Fibers, often derived from synthetic textiles and clothing [15,16], highlight the consequences of inadequate waste management and disposal practices allowing these materials to enter and contaminate water sources. Meanwhile, fragments and films generally originate from the breakdown of larger plastic items such as plastic bags, bottles, containers, and packaging materials.…”

“…Communities need to be educated and trained to stop the culture of littering and promote participation in plastic reduction in the environment [16]. For sustainability, this education should be integrated into school curricula to instill awareness about plastic pollution and its environmental impact from a young age [116,117].…”

“…Plastic waste is in dumpsites, water systems, roads, and free spaces in most SSA countries. The first step towards plastic management is waste sorting and collection [16]. This will reduce the presence of plastic litter everywhere.…”

Synergistic impact of nanoplastics and nanopesticides on Artemia salina and toxicity analysis

“… 10 Most of the synthetic pyrethroids are neurotoxic and interfere with the function of nerve cells by interacting with ion channels and sodium channels, leading to paralysis. 11 MNPs present in sewage sludge 12 interact with these chemicals, when sludges are used as fertilizers. During surface runoff, these MNPs may transport the nanopesticides to nonpoint sources such a marine ecosystem, fresh water ecosystem and so many others.…”