Micro/nano plastics in aquatic biota: concerns, risks, mitigation, and policies

Abstract

A large variety of polymers and the versatility of their properties have transformed almost everything around us. While their widespread use for plastics, including disposable aspects, was anticipated, some of the recent reports associated with the extent of environmental pollution created by nano/microplastics were not articulated. The presence of microplastics in treated water and food products has presented serious questions and concerns about the impact the fragmented plastics might have on human health and aquatic well-being. However, to reap the benefits of plastics while keeping pollution to a minimum, it is critical to reimagine the topic of plastics from a holistic standpoint. It is important to identify specific uses that offer clear advantages and to refine national and international standards and associated product labeling to specify suitable usage and appropriate disposal methods. Since a large fraction of plastic waste ends up in the aquatic environment, it is critical to consider the ecological risks presented by micro- and nano plastics in aquatic biota through trophic transfer, that eventually impacts human health through the food chain supply. Aquatic ecosystems have already been affected by a multitude of environmental stressors, and now the presence of micro/nano plastics represents a significant additional risk to human health. In this context, the chapter provides an overview of various aspects of nano/microplastics in the environment using 2temporal trends in MNPs in aquatic environments to better assess their risks to human health to develop appropriate mitigation and management strategies, such as identification of key knowledge gaps, strategies to mitigate environmental pollution, and policies to minimize their impact.