Microplastic sources, formation, toxicity and remediation: A review
Date
2023Author
Osman, Ahmed I.
Hosny, Mohamed
Akinyede, Kolajo Adedamola
Metadata
Show full item recordAbstract
Microplastic pollution is becoming a major issue for human health due to the recent discovery of microplastics in most
ecosystems. Here, we review the sources, formation, occurrence, toxicity and remediation methods of microplastics. We
distinguish ocean-based and land-based sources of microplastics. Microplastics have been found in biological samples such
as faeces, sputum, saliva, blood and placenta. Cancer, intestinal, pulmonary, cardiovascular, infectious and inflammatory
diseases are induced or mediated by microplastics. Microplastic exposure during pregnancy and maternal period is also
discussed. Remediation methods include coagulation, membrane bioreactors, sand filtration, adsorption, photocatalytic
degradation, electrocoagulation and magnetic separation. Control strategies comprise reducing plastic usage, behavioural
change, and using biodegradable plastics. Global plastic production has risen dramatically over the past 70 years to reach
359 million tonnes. China is the world's top producer, contributing 17.5% to global production, while Turkey generates the
most plastic waste in the Mediterranean region, at 144 tonnes per day. Microplastics comprise 75% of marine waste, with
land-based sources responsible for 80–90% of pollution, while ocean-based sources account for only 10–20%. Microplastics
induce toxic effects on humans and animals, such as cytotoxicity, immune response, oxidative stress, barrier attributes, and
genotoxicity, even at minimal dosages of 10 μg/mL.