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Microplastic and Nanoplastic Pollution in Different Environments: Freshwater and Marine Perspectives

2024

Abstract

Aquatic pollution by micro- and nanoplastics (M/NPs) has emerged as a critical global issue with widespread ecological and economic consequences. The increasing distribution of miniaturized plastic particles—namely microplastics (less than 5 mm) and nanoplastics (less than 1 μm)—across diverse ecosystems is a major environmental concern. These persistent synthetic fragments pose significant risks to human health and the environment due to their resistance to degradation and potential for adverse impacts. This collection aims to advance understanding of micro- and nanoplastic (M/NP) pollution across a range of aquatic ecosystems, from rivers and estuaries to coastal and open-ocean systems. It also highlights research on the occurrence, characterization, sources, transport processes, fate, impacts, potential mitigation strategies, and policy interventions in both freshwater and marine environments.

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