The impact of microplastic pollution on ecological environment: a review
Xi Mao, Yuchen Xu, Zhong Cheng, Yunbo Yang, Zetang Guan, Lu Jiang, Kai M. Tang
Abstract
Microplastic pollution and its impact on the ecological environment have attracted worldwide attention. The strong adsorption capacity of the microplastic surface plays an important role in the migration of microplastics throughout the environment. Synergistic effects between microplastics and persistent organic pollutants increase the toxicity of pollutants to organisms. In addition, microplastics cause different degrees of harm to aquatic organisms with different nutritional levels. However, the toxic effects of microplastics and organic pollutants on organisms, the distribution of microplastics in higher aquatic organisms, and the nutrient transfer in complex aquatic food webs require further research. Therefore, studying the impact of microplastics on the ecological environment would provide insights into controlling microplastic pollution. This paper in-depth discusses the source, distribution, and transmission of microplastics and summarizes the current situation of the impact of microplastics on the ecological environment, including physical, chemical, and biological effects. This paper also suggests topics for further research on the influence of microplastics on various aspects of the ecological environment.