Atmospheric chemistry of microplastics: Transport, environmental impacts, and governance

Abstract

The presence of microplastic particles, defined as plastics less than 5mm in dimension, presents a significant environmental challenge. Their ubiquity and the potential risks they pose for ecosystems and human health are widely recognized. This article delves into the atmospheric chemistry surrounding microplastics, examining their sources, impacts, and management. It reviews existing literature on their environmental occurrence, evaluates the processes they undergo in the atmosphere, their interaction with atmospheric elements, and the efficiency of current remediation strategies and policy measures. The analysis uncovers that microplastics (MPs) can carry harmful substances like heavy metals and persistent organic pollutants, facilitating their transport to diverse environmental contexts, thereby compromising air and water quality. The potential health repercussions, such as respiratory and cardiovascular problems, are also discussed. Effective removal techniques are identified, including Dissolved Air Flotation and coagulation methods that utilize metals, and emphasize the urgency for regulatory measures to combat microplastic contamination. This research contributes to a more profound comprehension of microplastics’ intricate environmental behavior and their possible effects. It offers valuable perspectives for devising strategies to curb their pollution, highlighting the significance of sustainable material use and responsible waste management. These insights are pivotal for shaping policies and directing future research to mitigate the environmental and health hazards of microplastics.