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Plastic production and plastic waste have increased to such an extent that it has become globally ubiquitous. Several studies already have investigated the mesoand microplastic pollution along the German Baltic and North Sea coasts, but were all limited to a few locations. To obtain representative bulk samples from sandy beaches along the entire German coast, we initiated a citizen-science project entitled “Microplastic Detectives.” Here, we describe in detail 1) how we recruited, instructed, and engaged citizen scientists, 2) why we chose bulk sampling over reduced-volume sampling, and 3) the laboratory methods we used. The citizen scientists collected 1,139 samples from 71 locations along the German coast, totalling 2.2 tons of sand. After drying, sieving with a 1 mm sieve, and visual inspection of the retained fraction under a binocular microscope, all putative plastic particles ≥1 mm were analysed by attenuated total reflectance Fourier transform infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy. 177 out of 1,139 samples (15.5%) contained a total of 260 plastic particles, with a large right-skewed variation among locations. Most of the particles were fragments, foils, foams, fibres, and pellets (96.2% in total), and 89.6% of the particles were made of polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester, and polystyrene. The unweighted mean pollution densities were 4.12 particles m−2, 0.17 particles kg−1 and 0.27 particles L−1, and the weighted mean pollution densities were 3.77 particles m−2, 0.11 particles kg−1 and 0.18 particles L−1. These densities are lower than in other similar studies, but previous studies had important methodological differences. We discuss how these differences could have influenced the results and make recommendations for improving future studies. Two important recommendations are 1) to use random or stratified random sampling and 2) to run transects perpendicular (rather than parallel) to the waterline. Our study highlights that large-scale, scientifically rigorous monitoring of meso- and microplastic pollution is possible at the national level, and possibly even at much larger spatial and temporal scales. With the help of local authorities, such a monitoring program could be established. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abandoned, lost, or otherwise discarded fishing gears, also known as ghost gears (GG), are major contributors to global marine and freshwater plastic pollution. GG can lead to the accidental entanglement of several threatened freshwater and marine species, especially the air-breathing aquatic vertebrates, which is a matter of global concern. There is a lack of know-how and mechanisms for collecting and recycling GG, leading to their constant accumulation in aquatic ecosystems. In this study, we have examined the mortalities of threatened aquatic species in fishing nets and have proposed an incentive-based standard operating procedure (SOP) for effective collection and disposal of GG based on field observations and extant national and international policies and made recommendations for a net buyback scheme as a possible downstream solution to reduce GG in the Ganga River Basin. It is proposed that the collection of GG can be done by the local level institutions of fishing community through the fair-price shops. The nets are then to be deposited at the block-level processing centres to be transported to the district-level consolidating centres. Recycling partners identified by the Government of India will then collect the nets directly from district centres for further upcycling and recycling. A multi-level, multi-stakeholder approach with strong upstream and downstream linkages backed with appropriate policy interventions is needed to tackle the ghost gear issue in the Ganga River basin. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic pollution is an emergent global issue in freshwater and marine ecosystems. Microplastics enter waterways from a variety of sources, although the relative importance of point and nonpoint sources for a given watershed is not well understood. To determine whether medium-sized wastewater treatment plants are significant sources of microplastics to rivers draining into Lake Erie, we measured microplastic loads up- and downstream of two wastewater treatment plants in southeastern Michigan State (USA). We detected a significant increase in the microplastic load downstream from the wastewater treatment plant discharging into the Lower Rouge River, but not downstream from the one discharging into the Huron River. However, the background microplastic load was tenfold higher in the Huron River compared to the Lower Rouge River, likely obscuring our ability to detect the wastewater treatment plant as a point source. We found a positive relationship between river discharge and microplastic load in the Huron River, which drains a larger watershed area at the effluent discharge point than the Lower Rouge site, suggesting that watershed sources may be more important over larger spatial scales. We also performed experiments to test the effects of plastic on stream biofilm function to better understand how plastic pollution alters stream metabolism. Biofilms grown on high-density polyethylene and polypropylene had significantly lower metabolic diversity and metabolic response, respectively. Overall, our findings indicate that attention should be directed to both point and nonpoint sources to reduce microplastic pollution and that plastics may negatively affect the function of stream biofilm communities. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polystyrene microplastics, especially those smaller than 10 μm, reduce male fertility in murine models, but whether they affect male reproduction in humans is poorly understood. Here, we studied polystyrene microplastics smaller than 10 μm in human semen samples and evaluated their toxicity to human sperm. We also tested the use of magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles to remove nanoplastics and decrease their toxicity in human sperm. Results show that human semen is contaminated by approximately 3.57 ± 0.32 μg/mL polystyrene microplastics smaller than 10 μm. Polystyrene nanoplastics of 25–100 nm penetrate and damage human sperm at semen-relevant concentrations of 5 and 50 μg of nanoplastic per mL, while 0.5–10 μm polystyrene microplastics bind to the sperm. We also found that 25-nm polystyrene nanoplastics exhibited a synergistic toxicity with bisphenol A on human sperm. Nonetheless, we observed that environmental microplastics released from disposable paper cups do not pose a significant hazard to human sperm under our conditions. Furthermore, magnetic iron oxide nanoparticles can aggregate and coprecipitate with 25-nm polystyrene nanoplastics to eliminate their adverse effects on human sperm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Pew Charitable Trust's 2020 report 'Breaking the Plastic Wave', indicates that existing technologies could support an 80% reduction in plastic leakage relative to business as usual by 2040. Therefore, South Africa became the first country to work with the Pew Charitable Trust and Oxford University to test and apply 'Pathways', a modelling framework and software tool which stemmed and evolved from the Pew report, at country level. The tool calculates the flows of plastics in the economy and the impact of various strategies to reduce future plastic pollution. The Scenario Builder within the Pathways tool allows the user to optimise flows in the plastics value chain to satisfy a set of defined objectives in order to achieve an optimal solution. Three major findings have emerged from the application of Pathways at country level for South Africa. Firstly, plastic pollution is set to almost double by 2040 if no interventions are implemented. Secondly, meeting the newly legislated extended producer responsibility (EPR) targets set for plastic packaging can avoid 33% of projected total pollution over the period of 2023–2040. Lastly, an optimal system change can avoid 63% of total plastic pollution over the period 2023–2040. Thus, applying Pathways at country level in South Africa has proven to be valuable by setting a baseline against which progress towards reducing plastic pollution can be measured; determining the outcome of meeting the legislated EPR targets over time, and informing policy decisions by allowing users to model different scenarios towards an optimal system change scenario. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The global concern over microplastic pollution has been on the rise, primarily due to its detrimental effects on marine ecosystems and the potential health risks it poses to humans. Tourism activities are the main sources of plastic waste that deteriorates into microplastics. This study monitors microplastic contamination in marine environments at tourist destinations and suggests policies and initiatives that encourage tourism operators, locals, and tourists to adopt practices that reduce microplastic pollution. This endeavor is in line with the journal's objective to oversee the environmental consequences and advocate for improved environmental management strategies. This study aims to quantify microplastics in beach sediments, seawater, and the gastrointestinal tract and muscles of three fish species, Selar crumenophthalmus, Auxis thazard, and Sardina pilchardus, which are commonly found in the municipalities of Moalboal and Badian, tourist destinations in Southern Cebu Province, Philippines. METHODS: This study followed the approved procedures outlined in prior studies for gathering, handling, and examining microplastics found in sediment, seawater, and fish tissue samples. Sediment and seawater were collected from four sampling points at each study site using sterilized bottle containers. Sediment samples underwent oven-drying, passed through a 5-millimeter mesh, underwent density separation with a saturated salt solution, and were then filtered with filter paper. For seawater, the bottle grab method was utilized for sampling, followed by gravity filtration performed in triplicate to ensure thorough extraction of microplastics. The selection of fish species was determined by their common presence in nearby markets. Samples of gastrointestinal tract and muscle tissues were meticulously processed, treated with chemicals, and digested in order to aid in the isolation of microplastics. The quantification of microplastics was conducted under a stereomicroscope. FINDINGS: Moalboal exhibited higher average microplastic counts in sediments (0.12 items per gram) and seawater (0.06 items per gram) than Badian, which had 0.08 items per gram in sediments and 0.04 items per gram in seawater. There was no significant difference in the microplastic levels found in sediments and seawater between the two towns, as indicated by a p-value greater than 0.05. Similarly, there were no significant differences in microplastic abundance in fish between these sites. Significant disparities were noted in the abundance of microplastics across distinct fish species and anatomical segments. Auxis thazard showed significantly the highest microplastic particles (0.33 ± 0.10 in muscles; 0.077 ± 0.04 in the gastrointestinal tract) than other species. The microplastic abundance between Selar crumenophthalmus (0.20 ± 0.09; 0.055 ± 0.03), and Sardinella pilchardus (0.16 ± 0.03; 0.050 ± 0.04) did not significantly differ. In each fish sample, the presence of microplastics was notably more pronounced in the gastrointestinal tract than in the muscle tissue, demonstrating a statistically significant difference at a significance level of p<0.05. The average daily microplastic intake ranged from 4.75 to 7.60 particles based on consuming these fish species, using a per capita fish consumption rate of 34.27 kilograms per year. CONCLUSION: Moalboal and Badian, popular tourist destinations, are contaminated with microplastics, as evidenced by the presence of microplastic particles in samples of beach sediments, seawater, and fish species from these areas. The potential impacts of microplastic pollution on human health have raised concerns due to the estimated intake of microplastics through the consumption of contaminated fish. This study highlights the urgent need for strategies to address microplastic pollution and reduce human exposure. Recommendations comprise of educating the general public, implementing stringent policy measures, and conducting thorough surveillance that involves tourists, tourism operators, and the local community. These measures aim to safeguard human health, preserve the marine environment, and protect biodiversity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary data of micro- and macroplastics in the aquatic environment of Lake Markakol, located in the mountainous area of East Kazakhstan, are presented. The determination of micro- and macroplastics in water is based on sieving, drying, liquid oxidation, density separation and visual sorting using a microscope with a magnification of 40×. The detected plastic fragments in the aquatic environment include fishing line nets, Styrofoam balls, plastic bags, plastic bottles, wrappers, food labels and packages and other types of plastic waste. The sizes of the plastic fragments were ˃25 mm, 1.0–5.0 mm and 0.315–1.0 mm. The concentration of plastic in Lake Markakol was 837.5 µg/m3 in the tributaries and 482.1 µg/m3 in the lake water. The detected plastic mainly corresponded to sieve mesh sizes of 1.0–5.0 mm and 0.315–1.0 mm. The main sources of plastic pollution are fishing, tourism and the lack of adequate infrastructure for household waste management. These data emphasize the importance of measures to regulate plastic waste management in order to preserve the Lake Markakol ecosystem and maintain human health. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Israel is a regional "hotspot" of plastic pollution, with little discussion of potential adverse health effects from exposure to plastic. This review aims to stimulate discussion and drive policy by focusing on these adverse health effects. Main body: Plastics are synthetic polymers containing additives which can leach from food- and beverage-contact plastic into our food and beverages, and from plastic textiles onto our skin. Plastics persist in the environment for generations, fragmenting into MNPs: Micro (1 micron–5 mm)-Nano (1 nm–1 micron)-Plastic, which contaminate our atmosphere, water, and food chain. MNP can enter the human body through ingestion, inhalation and touch. MNP < 10 microns can cross epithelial barriers in the respiratory and gastrointestinal systems, and fragments < 100 nm can cross intact skin, enabling entry into body tissues. MNP have been found in multiple organs of the human body. Patients with MNP in atheromas of carotid arteries have increased risk of a combined measure of stroke, cardiovascular disease, and death. Toxic additives to plastics include bisphenols, phthalates, and PFAS, endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) which cause dysregulation of thyroid function, reproduction, and metabolism, including increased risk of obesity, diabetes, endometriosis, cancer, and decreased fertility, sperm count and quality. Fetal exposure to EDCs is associated with increased rates of miscarriages, prematurity and low birth weight. There is likely no safe level of exposure to EDCs, with increasing evidence of trans-generational and epigenetic effects. There are several existing Israeli laws to reduce plastic use and waste. Taxes on single-use plastic (SUP) were recently cancelled. There are many gaps in regulatory standards for food-, beverage- and child- safe plastic. Existing standards are poorly enforced. Conclusion: Reduction in production and use of plastic, promotion of recycling and reduction of leaching of toxic additives into our food and beverages are essential policy goals. Specific recommendations: Periodic monitoring of MNP in bottled beverages, food, indoor air; Strengthen enforcement of standards for food-, beverage-, and child-safe plastic; Renew tax on SUPs; National ban on SUP at public beaches, nature reserves and parks; Ban products manufactured with MNP; Increase research on sources and health outcomes of exposure to MNP and EDCs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the ingestion of microplastics (MP) by copepods in Terminos Lagoon (TL), a RAMSAR-listed site in the southern Gulf of Mexico. The evaluation was carried out in two contrasting seasons of 2022, as follows: the dry (April) and the rainy (October). Copepods were collected using a conical plankton net (mesh size of 200 μm). In the laboratory, a pool of all pelagic adult copepod taxa was picked, and the MP inside the organisms were extracted, classified, and photographed using traditional optical and scanning electron microscopy. A total of 268 MP particles were extracted from the interior of copepods; among them, 149 and 119 corresponded to the dry and rainy seasons, respectively. The ingestion rate in the dry season was 0.14, while in the rainy season, it was 0.11. In addition, fibers, plastic fragments, and microspheres with different colors (blue, red, black, green, transparent, and multicolored), sizes, forms (angular, round, triangular, and twisted), and textures were also detected. Fibers were the most abundant MP found in a proportion of more than 85%. In addition, in some sampling sites, microspheres were observed with high relative abundance values (80%). In some sites, fragments reach 20% of the total abundance. Significant differences were observed between the two seasons. The sites closest to the urban area adjacent to TL observed high diversity and abundance of MP. The higher abundance of MP in the dry season is due to lower river discharge, on the other hand. Thus, MP particles accumulate and become available for consumption by copepods. This is the first study that has revealed that the MP was ingested by the copepods in TL. Furthermore, this study provides a baseline information for future research on the abundance of MP in the Gulf of Mexico region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This study investigates the biodegradation of polyethylene (PE) by Galleria mellonella larvae, exploring the impact of co-diet supplementation. Polyethylene, a prevalent plastic, poses significant environmental pollution due to its resistance to natural degradation. This research evaluates the larvae's efficiency in consuming PE of various densities with and without co-diets like beeswax and wheat germ + honey. The findings indicate that the larvae consumed more PE when the density was lower, with 1 mm thickness showing the highest consumption and minimal weight loss when beeswax was added. The larvae demonstrated higher biodegradation rates within 24 h compared to within 48 and 72 h. The co-diet supplementation, particularly with beeswax, enhanced PE consumption, aligning with the larvae's natural diet. This research underscores the potential of using G. mellonella larvae for the environmentally friendly biodegradation of PE, suggesting further exploration of the larvae's digestive mechanisms to develop sustainable solutions for plastic pollution. Pollution coming from plastic polymers, particularly polyethylene (PE), poses a serious threat to both humans and animals. The biodegradation of plastics facilitated by insects is a crucial and eco-friendly approach that can be employed to combat this global concern. Recently, the larvae of the greater wax moth Galleria mellonella (L.) have been recognized as avid 'plastivores'. The current study was aimed at evaluating the feeding efficiency of G. mellonella larvae on PEs of various densities with a co-diet supplementation of wheat germ + honey and beeswax. The results reveal that maximum PE consumption (9.98 ± 1.25 mg) was recorded in the case of 1.0 mm thick PE after a 24 h interval; however, the same scenario also achieved the greatest reduction in larval weight (27.79 ± 2.02 mg). A significant reduction in PE mass (5.87 ± 1.44 mg) was also observed in 1.0 mm PE when fed beeswax; however, the larvae experienced minimal weight loss (9.59 ± 3.81 mg). The larvae exhibited a higher PE consumption in 1.0 mm PE, indicating that the lower the density of PE, the greater the consumed area. Moreover, the biodegradation levels were notably higher within the 24 h interval. In conclusion, these findings suggest that the density of PEs and the supplementation of the co-diet have an impact on PE biodegradation. Additionally, the utilization of G. mellonella for the biodegradation of PE proves effective when combined with beeswax, resulting in minimal weight loss of the larvae. Our findings offer initial insights into how Galleria mellonella larvae biodegrade polyethylene (PE) of four different densities, along with co-diet supplementation. This approach helps us evaluate how varying densities affect degradation rates and provides a better understanding of the larvae's capabilities. Additionally, our observations at three specific time intervals (24, 48, and 72 h) allow us to identify the time required for achieving degradation rates. Through examining these time points, our method offers valuable insights into the initial phases of plastic consumption and biodegradation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastics (MPs) severely threaten inland waterbodies due to the direct impact of human activities. In the present study, spatial and temporal patterns of MPs in a shallow tropical lake were assessed, describing their size, morphology, and polymer types. Water and sediment samples were collected from Lake Chapala during three seasons, and MPs were quantified with a stereomicroscope. The structure, elemental composition, and polymeric composition were determined via environmental scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The highest average concentration of microplastics in Lake Chapala was detected during the low‐water period in April 2022 (2.35 items/L), exceeding the July 2022 rainy season concentration (1.8 items/L) by 0.25 items/L, and sediment concentrations were also higher in April 2022 (219 items/kg) compared to July 2022 (210 items/kg). This study highlights the significant pollution of Lake Chapala with microplastics, emphasizing the need for urgent measures to manage plastic waste and mitigate its environmental impact on aquatic ecosystems. Practitioner Points: Microplastic contamination was evaluated in Lake Chapala.The distribution profiles of microplastics were different in each area.Heavy metals osmium, tellurium, and rhodium were found associated with the PMs.Polymers were found in this study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Stockholm Declaration and the London Convention/Protocol continue to shape multilateralism in marine environmental law. They guide international law-making and judicial processes including the recent International Tribunal for the Law of the Sea Advisory Opinion on Climate Change and International Law. They also inspire the World Maritime University (WMU)-Sasakawa Global Ocean Institute and its work on areas beyond national jurisdiction, plastic pollution, gender equality for the Decade of Ocean Science, the World Ocean Assessment, sea level rise, capacity-building in the Eastern Caribbean, and the Future Ocean Programme. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The increasing concern over environmental sustainability has prompted various industries to reassess their practices and explore greener alternatives. Dentistry, as a significant contributor to waste generation, is actively seeking methods to minimize its environmental footprint. This paper examines the environmental implications of clear aligner therapy (CAT) in orthodontics and explores strategies to prioritize sustainability in aligner manufacturing and usage. CAT has gained popularity as a viable alternative to traditional fixed appliances due to advancements in biomaterials and computer-aided design (CAD) and manufacturing (CAM) technologies. The global market for clear aligners is expanding rapidly, with significant growth projected in the coming years. To address these challenges, this paper proposes adopting the principles of reduce, reuse, recycle, and rethink (4Rs) in orthodontic practices. Strategies such as minimizing resource consumption, incorporating recycled materials, and promoting proper aligner disposal and recycling can significantly reduce environmental harm. This paper explores emerging technologies and materials to mitigate the environmental impacts of CAT. Additionally, initiatives promoting aligner recycling and repurposing offer promising avenues for reducing plastic waste and fostering a circular economy. In conclusion, while CAT offers numerous benefits in orthodontic treatment, its environmental impact cannot be overlooked. By implementing sustainable practices and embracing innovative solutions, the orthodontic community can contribute to a more environmentally conscious future while continuing to provide quality care to patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The escalating environmental impact of plastic packaging waste necessitates sustainable alternatives in food packaging. This study explores starch-based films derived from cassava and potato as viable substitutes, aiming to mitigate plastic pollution and enhance environmental sustainability. Utilizing a casting method, formulations optimized by CCRD were characterized for their physical, physicochemical, and morphological properties. Comprehensive analysis revealed both cassava and potato starch films to exhibit robust structural integrity, high tensile strength (up to 32.6 MPa for cassava starch films), and semi-crystalline morphology. These films demonstrated low water vapor permeability and moderate solubility, akin to conventional low-density polyethylene used in packaging. Differential scanning calorimetry indicated glass transition temperatures between 116.36 °C and 119.35 °C, affirming thermal stability suitable for packaging applications. Scanning electron microscopy confirmed homogeneous film surfaces, with cassava starch films (C4-15) exhibiting superior transparency and uniformity. X-ray diffraction corroborated the films' semi-crystalline nature, unaffected by sorbitol content variations. Despite their mechanical and thermal suitability, further enhancements in thermal degradation resistance are essential for broader thermoprocessing applicability. These findings underscore the potential of starch-based films to be used as lids or other part of a food package, decreasing the plastic dependency in food packaging, contributing decisively to waste reduction and environmental preservation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic pollution of marine environments has become a global problem. Microplastics have the potential to bioaccumulate in marine biota and ecosystems. Depending on their bioavailability and size, they can be potentially dangerous to the health of organisms and ecosystems. This study aimed to assess microplastics bioaccumulation in bivalve species from the hypereutrophic Varna Lake. Totally, 58 bivalves of three species (Mya arenaria, Mytilus galloprovincialis and Cerastroderma glaucum) were collected from Varna Lake. The most common type of microplastics were fragments (61.54%) followed by fibres (15.38%), microbeads (11.54%), films and sponge/foam. Microplastics were recovered in 60 % of M. galloprovincialis (1.73±2.09 part/ind.), 58 % of M. arenaria (1.77±2.27 part/ind.), and 29 % of C. glaucum (0.35±0.61 part/ind.). The lowest number of microplastics was identified in C. glaucum (0-2 part/ind.) while M. galloprovincialis (0-6 part/ind.) and M. arenaria (0-8 part/ind.) presented almost equal content. The most frequent plastic colour was blue (26.92 %) followed by red (25.64 %), grey (15.38 %), black (12.82 %) and green (10.26 %). Our study reveals the first evaluation of the uptake, level of accumulation, shape, colour and size class of microplastics by three native bivalve species in Varna Lake. Much more research is needed for a more precise assessment of the patterns of bioaccumulation and the effects of microplastics in marine bivalves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to their widespread misuse and inadequate waste management, single-use plastic bags represent the global plastic pollution crisis and ecosystem degradation. Comprehensive research on population knowledge, attitudes, and practices (KAP) regarding single-use plastic bags is lacking in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). This study aims to fill this gap by assessing the KAP levels among the UAE population and determining the relationships between these variables. A five-point Likert scale questionnaire from previous studies was used in a cross-sectional study, and the questionnaire was distributed via Google Forms. The UAE University Research Ethics Committee approved the study (ERSC_2024_4377). Non-probability sampling and G*power statistical analysis version 3.1.9.6 determined 385 UAE residents aged 18 years and older. The findings were verified through face-to-face interviews and Cronbach's alpha tests. KAP variable associations were assessed using Chi-square tests, Pearson's correlation coefficients, and a structural equation model with SPSS version 29.0. This test was chosen for robust categorical and continuous data. The study included 84.7% female, and 15.3% male participants aged 18 to 65 years, primarily aged 18 to 25 years, with most holding bachelor's degrees (47.6%), and were students (51.4%), employed (33.1%), or unemployed (12.2%). The results indicated a favourable inclination towards sustainability, with mean ± standard deviation (SD) for seven knowledge questions (3.89 ± 0.7), seven attitude questions (3.99 ± 0.7), and five practice questions (3.42 ± 0.8) exceeding the midpoint. The correlation test showed that total knowledge was positively correlated with practice (r = 0.399; p < 0.001) indicating the increasing knowledge regarding single-use plastic bags associated with increasing sustainable practices and attitudes (r = 0.648; p < 0.001). There was also a significant correlation between the total attitude and practice (r = 0.487; p < 0.001). The findings suggest targeted educational and policy interventions to promote sustainable behaviour. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic production on a commercial scale began in the 1950s, reaching an annual production of 460 million metric tons in 2019. The global release of 22% of produced plastics into the environment has raised concerns about their potential environmental impacts, particularly on aquatic ecosystems. Here, we quantify and categorize plastic debris found along Richland Creek, a small, heavily forested watershed in western North Carolina, USA. Plastics within the riparian zone of seven 50 m reaches of Richland Creek and its tributaries were sampled two or three times. The 1737 pieces of collected plastic debris were returned to the lab where they were measured and categorized. A small-scale laboratory study using seven of the items collected was performed to determine their ability to break down into microplastics (particles < 5 mm in size). The majority (76%) of collected items were made of either plastic film (particularly bags and food wrappers, 43%) or hard plastics (e.g., bottles, 2%). However, when viewed on a surface area basis, films and synthetic fabrics (e.g., clothing, sleeping bags) equally dominated. Roughly three-quarters of the items collected had a width less than 10 cm, due primarily to the fragmentation of the original items; over two-thirds of the collected items were fragmented. Items composed of foams and films exhibited the highest fragmentation rates, 93% and 86%, respectively. Most collected plastics were domestic in nature, and the number of items increased downstream through more developed areas. Laboratory studies showed that plastic debris has a propensity to break down into microplastics. We believe the data collected here should be replicated in other streams, as these freshwater environments are the source of plastics that eventually enter the oceans. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastics have been found in the gastrointestinal (GI) fluid of bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), inhabiting Sarasota Bay, FL, suggesting exposure by ingestion, possibly via contaminated fish. To better understand the potential for trophic transfer, muscle and GI tissues from 11 species of dolphin prey fish collected from Sarasota Bay were screened for microplastics (particles < 5 mm diameter). Suspected microplastics were found in 82% of muscle samples (n = 89), and 97% of GI samples (n = 86). Particle abundance and shapes varied by species (p < 0.05) and foraging habit (omnivore vs. carnivore, p < 0.05). Pinfish (Lagodon rhomboides) had the highest particle abundance for both tissue types (muscle: 0.38 particles/g; GI: 15.20 particles/g), which has implications for dolphins as they are a common prey item. Findings from this study support research demonstrating the ubiquity of estuarine plastic contamination and underscore the risks of ingestion exposure for wildlife and potentially seafood consumers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research investigates the microbial degradation of low-density polyethylene (LDPE) and high-density polyethylene (HDPE) plastics by Bacillus sp., Proteus sp., Pseudomonas sp., and Salmonella sp. The study employs a systematic approach, isolating microorganisms from plastic-contaminated soil and subjecting them to a series of biochemical tests for identification. The research evaluates the weight loss of LDPE and HDPE over two months, revealing varying degrees of degradation among the bacterial strains. Results suggest a potential greater susceptibility of HDPE to microbial degradation. Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) analysis provides high-resolution images of the plastic surface, indicating structural changes and biofilm formation during degradation. The findings highlight the unique enzymatic capabilities of each strain and underscore the significance of SEM in elucidating microbial interactions with plastics. The study prompts discussions on optimization, synergistic effects, and the identification of key enzymes in plastic degradation, emphasizing the importance of microbial strategies for waste management. Overall, this research contributes valuable insights into the potential of bacterial strains for addressing plastic pollution challenges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastic (MP) load in urban sewage sludge could vary annually in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs) depending on seasonal precipitation and human activities. We investigated the seasonal dynamics in abundance and characterization of MP loading in WWTPs located in two cities across River Ganga, India's ecologically sensitive upper stretch. During a 12-month seasonal sampling (pre-monsoon, monsoon, and post-monsoon), sludge samples (n = 36) (primary sludge, PS; drying bed sludge, DBS) were collected and analyzed for load, polymer types, shape, colour, and size (20–1000 µm). Across the three seasons, MP concentrations (particles/kg) were found to be in the ranges of 93.4 ± 5.0 × 103–189.4 ± 11 × 103 in the PS and 39.6 ± 4.0 × 103–152.0 ± 7 × 103 in the DBS. The trend of MP loading was in the following order: monsoon > post-monsoon > pre-monsoon. The dominant MP size was 50–200 µm (36.22%) followed by 20–50 µm (27.65%), 200–500 µm (24.55%) and 500–1000 µm (11.58%). ATR-FTIR results revealed polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, polyvinyl chloride, and nylon dominating MP in sludge. This study highlights the importance of long-term monitoring of MP loading in sewage sludge to offer a more accurate estimate of MP contamination in sludge from WWTPs and develop a possible mechanism for its elimination to safeguard the environment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Agricultural environments are becoming increasingly contaminated with plastic pollution. Plastics in the environment can also provide a unique habitat for microbial biofilm, termed the 'plastisphere', which can also support the persistence of human pathogens such as Salmonella. Human enteric Salmonella enterica serovar Typhimurium can enter agricultural environments via flooding or from irrigation with contaminated water. Using soil mesocosms we quantified the ability of S. Typhimurium to persist on microplastic beads in two agriculturally relevant soils, under ambient and repeat flood scenarios. S. Typhimurium persisted in the plastisphere for 35 days in both podzol and loamy soils; while during multiple flood events was able to survive in the plastisphere for up to 21 days. S. Typhimurium could dissociate from the plastisphere during flooding events and migrate through soil in leachate, and importantly could colonise new plastic particles in the soil, suggesting that plastic pollution in agricultural soils can aid S. Typhimurium persistence and facilitate further dissemination within the environment. The potential for increased survival of enteric human pathogens in agricultural and food production environments due to plastic contamination poses a significant public health risk, particularly in potato or root vegetable systems where there is the potential for direct contact with crops. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ocean plastic pollution is one of the global environmental problems of our time. "Rubbish islands" formed in the ocean are increasing every year, damaging the marine ecosystem. In order to effectively address this type of pollution, it is necessary to accurately and quickly identify the sources of plastic entering the ocean, identify where it is accumulating, and track the dynamics of waste movement. To this end, remote sensing methods using satellite imagery and aerial photographs from unmanned aerial vehicles are a reliable source of data. Modern machine learning technologies make it possible to automate the detection of floating plastics. This review presents the main projects and research aimed at solving the "plastic" problem. The main data acquisition techniques and the most effective deep learning algorithms are described, various limitations of working with space images are analyzed, and ways to eliminate such shortcomings are proposed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The widespread adoption of face masks as personal protective equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic has introduced a novel source of microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) to the environment. These face masks are primarily fabricated from non-renewable polymers, particularly polypropylene and polyethylene, that can be potential sources of MPs/NPs. The release of MPs/NPs from face masks has become a great concern due to a lack of proper disposal. The present work deals with the study of the release and characterization of MPs/NPs generated from face mask fabric. Scanning electron microscopy and flow cytometry showed that exposing face mask fabrics to different levels of mechanical stress can break them down into smaller debris, including MPs/NPs. Furthermore, the effects of MPs/NPs on the early life stages of zebrafish (Danio rerio) were studied by investigating morphological abnormalities from 0 to 96 h post-fertilization. Lastly, a mitigation strategy based on coagulation removal using iron chloride (FeCl3) was developed and optimized for the removal of MPs/NPs from water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Philippines is primarily an agricultural country in which most Filipinos depend on the health of the soil for livelihood. Plastic pollution adversely affects agriculture by degrading soil quality, fertility, and crop growth. However, the prevalence of plastic particles such as mesoplastics (>5 mm to 25 mm) and microplastics (<5 mm) in agricultural soils in the Philippines remains poorly understood. This study investigated the prevalence of mesoplastics and microplastics in agricultural soils in Iligan City, Philippines. We collected soil samples from the six sampling stations in high-elevation and low-elevation sites. Mesoplastics and microplastics were examined through manual sorting, categorized based on color, shape, and size, and identified using Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR). Mesoplastics were found to be more prevalent, averaging 2.22 items/kg compared to microplastics 0.83 items/kg. Mesoplastics were mainly white-colored (42%), mostly fragmented (55%), 5–10 mm in size (55%), and were predominantly polypropylene (85%). Microplastics were mainly transparent (40%), composed of fragments and film shapes(46%), and 3–4 mm (93%) in size. Polyethylene was the abundant microplastic polymer type (47%). It was observed that the low-elevation sites had a higher abundance of plastic particles, stressing the need to address local factors in tackling plastic pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastics have been recently detected in many environmental media and living organisms, yet their transfer and toxicity to humans are poorly known. Here, we review microplastic transfer in the food chain with focus on microplastic pollution sources, methods to analyze microplastics in food, health impact of food-related microplastic exposure, and remediation of microplastic pollution. Microplastic pollution sources include seafood, food additives, packaging materials, and agricultural and industrial products. Remediation techniques comprise the use of microbial enzymes and biofilms. Microplastic detection methods in food rely on separation and quantification by optical detection, scanning electron micrography, and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy. Human health impact following microplastic ingestion include cancers, organ and respiration damage, and reproductive impairments. Overall, microplastic toxicity is mainly due to their ability to enter the metabolism, adsorption into the circulatory system for translocation, and difficulty, if not impossibility, of excretion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: This research investigated microplastic ingestion in two marine crustacean species of high commercial importance, namely the Giant Red Shrimp Aristaeomorpha foliacea and the Deep-Water Rose Shrimp Parapenaeus longirostris. The primary purpose of this study was to better understand how these species are affected by microplastic pollution, a growing concern in the marine environment worldwide. Based on stable isotope analysis of muscle tissue and on the examination of their gastrointestinal tracts, it was found that the trophic niche of the two species is similar, but the type of particles ingested differed significantly in terms of shape, colour, size class, and polymer. These outcomes shed light on the pervasive impact of microplastic contamination on marine wildlife, emphasising potential threats to consumers at higher levels of the food web. A better knowledge of pathways that microplastics follow through marine food webs is crucial for understanding the ecological implications posed by this emerging contaminant. Increasing plastic contamination poses a serious threat to marine organisms. Microplastics (MPs) ingestion can represent a risk for the organism itself and for the ultimate consumer. Through the analysis of the gastrointestinal tract, coupled with stable isotope analysis on the muscle tissue, this study provides insights into the relationship between MPs pollution and ecology in two commercial marine species caught in the Central Tyrrhenian Sea: Aristaeomorpha foliacea and Parapenaeus longirostris. Stable isotope analysis was conducted to determine the trophic position and the trophic niche width. The gastrointestinal tracts were processed, and the resultant MPs were analysed under FT-IR spectroscopy to estimate the occurrence, abundance, and typology of the ingested MPs. The trophic level of the species was similar (P. longirostris TP = 3 ± 0.10 and A. foliacea TP = 3.1 ± 0.08), with an important trophic niche overlap, where 38% and 52% of P. longirostris and A. foliacea has ingested MPs, respectively. Though species-level differences may not be evident regarding MP's abundance per individual, a high degree of dissimilarity was noted in the typologies of ingested particles. This research provides valuable insights into how MPs enter marine trophic webs, stressing that isotopic niche analysis should be combined with other methods to explain in detail the differences in MPs ingestion. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastics (MPs) are contaminants of global concern, especially considering their widespread use. However, a systematic and comprehensive analytical procedure is not yet standardized for MPs in soils. Most of the methods have primarily been modified from existing marine research without acknowledging the inherent complexities of sampling and analyzing MPs in soil ecosystems. This review critically evaluates existing sampling, separation, identification, and quantification methods for MPs in soils and proposes a comprehensive methodology comprising eight phases for analyzing MPs in soils. We emphasize the importance of the soil sampling planning phase before conducting soil MP analyses and the necessity to assess physicochemical properties. Novel methods should be developed, and existing analytical approaches must be adequately modified and refined, given the heterogeneity of soils. Soil MP analyses should be coordinated globally by utilizing existing networks and infrastructure for soils, crops, and food security research and biomonitoring in conjunction with environmental and material sciences. This critical review may be an effective model for developing global standards for MP analysis in soils, focusing on the new regulations initiated by the UNEP to develop a legally binding agreement on plastic pollution. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) are pervasive environmental pollutants that are commonly ingested by organisms at different trophic levels. While the effects of MPs on aquatic organisms have been extensively studied, the impacts of MP ingestion on the host fitness of terrestrial organisms, mainly insects, have been relatively unexplored. This study investigates the effects of MP and NP ingestion on the survivorship and reproduction of 2 medically important mosquito species, Aedes aegypti Linnaeus (Diptera: Culicidae) and Aedes albopictus Skuse (Diptera: Culicidae). Larval and pupal survivorship of Ae. albopictus were not significantly affected by particle size or concentration, but there was a reduction of Ae. aegypti pupal survivorship associated with the ingestion of 0.03 µm NPs. In addition, there was little observed impact of 0.03 µm NP and 1.0 µm MP ingestion on adult survivorship, fecundity, and longevity. To further investigate the effects of MP ingestion on mosquito fitness, we also examined the effects of MPs of varying shape, size, and plastic polymer type on Ae. aegypti immature and adult survivorship. The data suggest that the polymer type and shape did not impact Ae. aegypti immature or adult survivorship. These findings highlight that understanding the effects of microplastic ingestion by mosquitoes may be complicated by the size, composition, and amount ingested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Microplastic pollution poses an increasing environmental and human health risk and additional techniques are needed to facilitate nondestructive, quantitative particle recovery and analysis. Using a mini-extruder filtration (MEF) device, the efficiency of pristine particle capture from solution and digested biological tissue (blood clots) was assessed. Polystyrene particles in both the submicron (100, 300, and 500 nm) and micron range (2, 5, 7, and 10 µm) with aminated, carboxylated, or unmodified surface modifications were explored. The MEF-isolated-particle recovery was analyzed pre- and postseparation isolation and quantified via a Nanosight LM10 particle tracking system (submicron particles) or hemacytometer (micron particles). Particles' surface chemistry and concentration did not impact recovery compared to unfiltered samples with smaller particle sizes reducing recovery efficiency. Micron particle size recovery averaged 86.8 ± 4.3% across all surface chemistries at the same concentration; however, submicron particle recoveries varied by size and charge with 500 nm exhibiting recoveries of 80.6 ± 16.6%, 300 nm 73.0 ± 10.4%, and 100 nm particles 17.0 ± 10.3%. The mini-extruder device, used as a filtration recovery system, efficiently captures 10 to 0.5 µm particles from environmental and tissue samples making it an effective and low-cost platform facilitating the nondestructive capture of diverse microplastics for subsequent analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The global concern over microplastic pollution has been on the rise, primarily due to its detrimental effects on marine ecosystems and the potential health risks it poses to humans. Tourism activities are the main sources of plastic waste that deteriorates into microplastics. This study monitors microplastic contamination in marine environments at tourist destinations and suggests policies and initiatives that encourage tourism operators, locals, and tourists to adopt practices that reduce microplastic pollution. This endeavor is in line with the journal''''''''s objective to oversee the environmental consequences and advocate for improved environmental management strategies. This study aims to quantify microplastics in beach sediments, seawater, and the gastrointestinal tract and muscles of three fish species, Selar crumenophthalmus, Auxis thazard, and Sardina pilchardus, which are commonly found in the municipalities of Moalboal and Badian, tourist destinations in Southern Cebu Province, Philippines.METHODS: This study followed the approved procedures outlined in prior studies for gathering, handling, and examining microplastics found in sediment, seawater, and fish tissue samples. Sediment and seawater were collected from four sampling points at each study site using sterilized bottle containers. Sediment samples underwent oven-drying, passed through a 5-millimeter mesh, underwent density separation with a saturated salt solution, and were then filtered with filter paper. For seawater, the bottle grab method was utilized for sampling, followed by gravity filtration performed in triplicate to ensure thorough extraction of microplastics. The selection of fish species was determined by their common presence in nearby markets. Samples of gastrointestinal tract and muscle tissues were meticulously processed, treated with chemicals, and digested in order to aid in the isolation of microplastics. The quantification of microplastics was conducted under a stereomicroscope.FINDINGS Moalboal exhibited higher average microplastic counts in sediments (0.12 items per gram) and seawater (0.06 items per gram) than Badian, which had 0.08 items per gram in sediments and 0.04 items per gram in seawater. There was no significant difference in the microplastic levels found in sediments and seawater between the two towns, as indicated by a p-value greater than 0.05. Similarly, there were no significant differences in microplastic abundance in fish between these sites. Significant disparities were noted in the abundance of microplastics across distinct fish species and anatomical segments. Auxis thazard showed significantly the highest microplastic particles (0.33 ± 0.10 in muscles; 0.077 ± 0.04 in the gastrointestinal tract) than other species. The microplastic abundance between Selar crumenophthalmus (0.20 ± 0.09; 0.055 ± 0.03), and Sardinella pilchardus (0.16 ± 0.03; 0.050 ± 0.04) did not significantly differ. In each fish sample, the presence of microplastics was notably more pronounced in the gastrointestinal tract than in the muscle tissue, demonstrating a statistically significant difference at a significance level of p

Abstract Background Israel is a regional "hotspot" of plastic pollution, with little discussion of potential adverse health effects from exposure to plastic. This review aims to stimulate discussion and drive policy by focusing on these adverse health effects. Main body Plastics are synthetic polymers containing additives which can leach from food- and beverage-contact plastic into our food and beverages, and from plastic textiles onto our skin. Plastics persist in the environment for generations, fragmenting into MNPs: Micro (1 micron–5 mm)-Nano (1 nm–1 micron)-Plastic, which contaminate our atmosphere, water, and food chain. MNP can enter the human body through ingestion, inhalation and touch. MNP

Plastic pollution, including microplastics (

Abstract During the July 2021 European floods approximately eight million empty dairy packaging (buttertubs) were flushed from a dairy processing facility in Belgium into the Vesdre river. Some were transported further downstream, into the Ourthe river and eventually the Meuse river. There are many unknowns when it comes to plastic transport in rivers, especially in response to floods. We therefore used this incident as an unique opportunity to study these buttertubs as a tracer for plastic transport dynamics in a riverine environment in response to an extreme flood event. Normally, it is unknown when and where individual plastic items found on riverbanks entered the environment. In this case, however, the ID stamps on the buttertups allowed for them to be traced back to the flooding of the factory. We studied the transport and deposition of these buttertubs in the Dutch Meuse over 2 years following the flood. We also collected buttertubs at different points in time to investigate their fragmentation and mass loss. Within 3 weeks of the flood, the buttertubs were transported up to 328 km from the spilling location. Overall, the majority (78%) of buttertubs we found within the first 3 weeks were deposited within less than 100 km of the point of emission. Over the following 2 years, the mean transport distance of the found buttertubs moved downstream from 100 km in July/August 2021, to 153 km in July 2023. The buttertubs average transport velocity decreased from 11.7 km/d within the first 3 weeks, to 0.2 km/d by July 2023. Based on the 89 buttertubs we collected and analyzed in detail over the 2 years, we did not find a significant mass loss. Of all 89 buttertubs found, 47 showed cracks and only 12 appeared to have pieces missing. This study shows that even during extreme flood events, the majority of spilled plastic litter is retained within a limited distance after being emitted into the river. The findings of this study can be utilized to improve plastic transport modelling, and overall better understand plastic transport in the freshwater environment.

Abstract Microplastics have the capacity to accumulate in soil due to their high resistance to degradation, consequently altering soil properties and influencing plant growth. This study focused on assessing the impact of various types and doses of microplastics on beech seedling growth. In our experiment, we used polypropylene and styrene granules with diameter of 4.0 mm in quantities of 2.5% and 7%. The hypothesis was that microplastics significantly affect seedlings' nutritional status and growth characteristics. The research analysed seedlings' nutrition, root morphological features, above-ground growth, and enzymatic activity in the substrate. Results confirmed the importance of microplastics in shaping the nutritional status of young beech trees. Microplastic type significantly impacted N/P and Ca/Mg stoichiometry, while microplastic quantity influenced Ca/Al and Ca+K+Mg/Al stoichiometry. Notably, only in the case of root diameter were significantly thicker roots noted in the control variant, whereas microplastics played a role in shaping the leaves' characteristics of the species studied. The leaf area was significantly larger in the control variant compared to the variant with polypropylene in the amount of 2.5% and styrene in the amount of 7%. Additionally, the study indicates a significant impact of microplastics on enzyme activity. In the case of CB and SP, the activity was twice as high in the control variant compared to the variants with microplastics. In the case of BG, the activity in the control variant was higher in relation to the variants used in the experiment. Research on the impact of microplastics on the growth of beech seedlings is crucial for enhancing our understanding of the effects of environmental pollution on forest ecosystems. Such studies are integral in shaping forestry management practices and fostering a broader public understanding of the ecological implications of plastic pollution.

The pressing need to mitigate climate change and drastically reduce environmental pollution and loss of biodiversity has precipitated a so-called energy transition aimed at the decarbonization of energy and defossilization of the chemical industry. The goal is a carbon-neutral (net-zero) society driven by sustainable energy and a circular bio-based economy relying on renewable biomass as the raw material. It will involve the use of green carbon, defined as carbon derived from terrestrial or aquatic biomass or organic waste, including carbon dioxide and methane emissions. It will also necessitate the accompanying use of green hydrogen that is generated by electrolysis of water using a sustainable source of energy, e.g. solar, wind or nuclear. Ninety per cent of the industrial chemicals produced in oil refineries are industrial monomers that constitute the precursors of a large variety of polymers, many of which are plastics. Primary examples of the latter are polyolefins such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride and polystyrene. Polyolefins are extremely difficult to recycle back to the olefin monomers and discarded polyolefin plastics generally end up as the plastic waste that is responsible for the degradation of our natural habitat. By contrast, waste biomass, such as the lignocellulose contained in forestry residues and agricultural waste, constitutes a renewable feedstock for the sustainable production of industrial monomers and the corresponding polymers. The latter could be the same polyolefins that are currently produced in oil refineries but a more attractive long-term alternative is to produce polyesters and polyamides that can be recycled back to the original monomers: a paradigm shift to a truly bio-based circular economy on the road to a net-zero chemical industry. This article is part of the discussion meeting issue 'Green carbon for the chemical industry of the future'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Amidst increasing concerns about plastic pollution's impacts on ecology and health, nanoplastics are gaining global recognition as emerging environmental hazards. This review aimed to examine the complex molecular consequences and underlying fundamental toxicity mechanisms reported from the exposure of diverse aquatic organisms to nanoplastics. Through the comprehensive examination of transcriptomics, proteomics, and metabolomics studies, we explored the intricate toxicodynamics of nanoplastics in aquatic species. The review raised essential questions about the consistency of findings across different omics approaches, the value of combining these omics tools to understand better and predict ecotoxicity, and the potential differences in molecular responses between species. By amalgamating insights from 37 omics studies (transcriptome 22, proteome six, and metabolome nine) published from 2013 to 2023, the review uncovered both shared and distinct toxic effects and mechanisms in which nanoplastics can affect aquatic life, and recommendations were provided for advancing omics-based research on nanoplastic pollution. This comprehensive review illuminates the nuanced connections between nanoplastic exposure and aquatic ecosystems, offering crucial insights into the complex mechanisms that may drive toxicity in aquatic environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study evaluated the ingestion of microplastics (MP) by copepods in Terminos Lagoon (TL), a RAMSAR-listed site in the southern Gulf of Mexico. The evaluation was carried out in two contrasting seasons of 2022, as follows: the dry (April) and the rainy (October). Copepods were collected using a conical plankton net (mesh size of 200 μm). In the laboratory, a pool of all pelagic adult copepod taxa was picked, and the MP inside the organisms were extracted, classified, and photographed using traditional optical and scanning electron microscopy. A total of 268 MP particles were extracted from the interior of copepods; among them, 149 and 119 corresponded to the dry and rainy seasons, respectively. The ingestion rate in the dry season was 0.14, while in the rainy season, it was 0.11. In addition, fibers, plastic fragments, and microspheres with different colors (blue, red, black, green, transparent, and multicolored), sizes, forms (angular, round, triangular, and twisted), and textures were also detected. Fibers were the most abundant MP found in a proportion of more than 85%. In addition, in some sampling sites, microspheres were observed with high relative abundance values (80%). In some sites, fragments reach 20% of the total abundance. Significant differences were observed between the two seasons. The sites closest to the urban area adjacent to TL observed high diversity and abundance of MP. The higher abundance of MP in the dry season is due to lower river discharge, on the other hand. Thus, MP particles accumulate and become available for consumption by copepods. This is the first study that has revealed that the MP was ingested by the copepods in TL. Furthermore, this study provides a baseline information for future research on the abundance of MP in the Gulf of Mexico region.

Plastic pollution has become a major environmental problem affecting ecosystems, wildlife and human health. While recent studies have mainly focused on microplastics, there is a need to assess the presence and diversity of meso- and macroplastics, which are the main sources of plastic pollution in nature due to inadequate or improper waste management strategies. Indeed, certain relationships and interactions related to the disposal of waste into the natural environment instead of proper waste collection points have spread like a virus and led to the formation of behavioral patterns. This study is based on the fundamental premise of the impact of "observational learning'," a social-cognitive approach and "peer influence" on the variety of meso/macro plastic unknowingly left on campus area and visualizing the distribution of plastic pollution in this environment. As the most important finding of this study; It has been observed that the dominant polymer structures in all points are plastic packaged products consumed by students due to their proximity to classrooms/offices/markets/canteens, cigarette butts due to their tobacco use habits, and wet wipes due to their fast hygiene habits. The peak period for waste generation was determined to be October, known as the mid-term exam period, and the busiest area was identified as the roadside seating areas. FT-IR analysis of the most commonly recorded meso- and macroplastic parts revealed the order of polymer structures by density: PET, PE, PP, and PMMA. The findings, supported by visual data, are intended to raise awareness of sustainability goals and highlight the need for environmental education programs. Ultimately, the study emphasizes the need to support youth through various initiatives that exemplify ecological practices to encourage the adoption of sustainable solutions and urge authorities to take immediate action.

Abstract The ongoing international negotiations on a global plastics treaty will have pivotal implications for future efforts to transform the plastic economy. This is essential since the current use of plastic in the economy impacts the environment beyond the planetary carrying capacity. To ensure that the forthcoming Treaty can provide the foundation for this transition, the best available science must be made available in the negotiations, but with no formal scientific mechanism to inform the negotiations process, this is not ensured. The Scientists’ Coalition for an Effective Plastic Treaty serves as an example of how the global scientific community has self-organized and come together to address this task, working with five different categories of science-policy communication. The Scientists’ Coalition’s work is made transparent here with the hope that it can inspire organization of scientific input into other future policy areas.

Abstract The persistent use of plastics in chemical and industrial procedures has resulted in the contamination of the environment and human health via microplastics (MPs). This study investigates heavy metals, MP, pH, conductivity, and turbidity levels in the Nida River in Poland. The Nida River exhibited the existence of diverse coloured MPs in several physical forms, including fibres, fragments, pellets, and foams. Differences in the number of MPs were noted at five selected locations, with values ranging from 215 to 280 MPs per litre. The mean number of MPs observed was 245 ± 21 per litre. The study of water samples using a scanning electron microscope indicates the existence of various MPs. The morphological study of these MPs revealed patterns of degradation. The energy-dispersive X-ray examination indicates the existence of several elements, such as carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, sodium, magnesium, aluminium, silicon, phosphorus, and others. The water exhibited fluctuations in its levels of heavy metal content. The average zinc concentration in all samples was 96.86 ± 40.25 μg/L, which was the highest. It was followed by Pb 37.6 ± 31.9 μg/L concentration. The turbidity measurement was recorded as 46.38 ± 22.54, the pH level was 7.078 ± 0.33, and the conductivity value was determined to be 1338.8 ± 39.64. The HQ and HI values for adults and children in all age groups were less than one. The carcinogenic excess lifetime cancer risk (ELCR) exceeds the threshold value in most water samples. This study aims to fill the existing gap in understanding the precise measurement of MPs and heavy metals in freshwater sources in Poland. Health risk evaluations are the first step in developing pollution management, control, and water quality standards. Graphical Abstract

Abstract Infrastructure is often a limiting factor in microplastics research impacting the production of scientific outputs and monitoring data. International projects are therefore required to promote collaboration and development of national and regional scientific hubs. The Commonwealth Litter Programme and the Ocean Country Partnership Programme were developed to support Global South countries to take actions on plastics entering the oceans. An international laboratory network was developed to provide the infrastructure and in country capacity to conduct the collection and processing of microplastics in environmental samples. The laboratory network was also extended to include a network developed by the University of East Anglia, UK. All the laboratories were provided with similar equipment for the collection, processing and analysis of microplastics in environmental samples. Harmonised protocols and training were also provided in country during laboratory setup to ensure comparability of quality-controlled outputs between laboratories. Such large networks are needed to produce comparable baseline and monitoring assessments.

We assessed the potential for plastic ingestion in polar bears (Ursus maritimus (Phipps (1774))) using fecal analysis. Two method studies ensured our protocols could effectively recover and identify plastics in feces. First, microplastics (film, foam, or fragments) were intentionally introduced into a model organic matrix. Recovery rates (mean ± standard deviation) averaged 95.8 ± 14.7% (n = 18) and were significantly affected by microplastic morphology but not digestion status. Second, microplastic fragments of polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate, and polystyrene were intentionally introduced to polar bear feces. Recovery rates averaged 79.3 ± 21.6% (n = 8) and Raman microscopy successfully identified all three polymers in 87.5% of samples. The main study then investigated the presence of microplastics in hunter-collected polar bear feces in the Canadian Arctic. Feces from the colons of hunted bears (n = 15) and field scat (n = 15) were collected through collaboration with Inuit communities. Polypropylene, polyethylene, and/or polyethylene terephthalate were detected in the feces of eight bears. Concentrations of microplastics in feces were, on average, less than 1 particle/g dry weight feces and at or near detection limits. Overall, this work suggests microplastic ingestion by Canadian polar bears may be low and demonstrates the utility of fecal sampling for community-based monitoring programs.

Abstract Background Plastic pollution is a severe threat to marine ecosystems. While some microbial enzymes can degrade certain plastics, the ability of the global ocean microbiome to break down diverse environmental plastics remains limited. We employed metatranscriptomic data from an international ocean survey to explore global and regional patterns in microbial plastic degradation potential. Results On a global oceanic scale, we found no significant correlation between levels of plastic pollution and the expression of genes encoding enzymes putatively identified as capable of plastic degradation. Even when looking at different regional scales, ocean depth layers, or plastic types, we found no strong or even moderate correlation between plastic pollution and relative abundances of transcripts for enzymes with presumed plastic biodegradation potential. Our data, however, indicate that microorganisms in the Southern Ocean show a higher potential for plastic degradation, making them more appealing candidates for bioprospecting novel plastic-degrading enzymes. Conclusion Our research contributes to understanding the complex global relationship between plastic pollution and microbial plastic degradation potential. We reveal that the transcription of putative plastic-degrading genes in the global ocean microbiome does not correlate to marine plastic pollution, highlighting the ongoing danger that plastic poses to marine environments threatened by plastic pollution.

Biocomposting at national and regional levels has recently been recognized as one of the feasible, nature-based solutions to prevent the accumulation and reuse of biodegradable waste in enhanced and effective mitigation measures for urban and semi-urban waste management. Recent research has mainly focused on organic compost contamination, as the negative effects of MP on soil systems have been extensively studied. According to current research, organic compost used as fertilizer on farmland contains many microplastics. In this context, microplastics (MPs) have been regarded as a global environmental problem and an emerging soil contaminant. The physico-chemical properties of water and compost samples were analyzed by APHA and AOAC methods. The extraction of microplastics was done using the density separation. In the current study, agricultural waste-based biocompost and water samples used for the production of biocompost were collected from four different agricultural nurseries in semi-urban areas of the Coimbatore city. The physicochemical properties (including heavy metal content) of the biocompost and water samples tested were on par/equal/lower than Indian standards. Interestingly, in the biocompost samples, 85% of the microplastic fragments and 15% of the fiber types were identified only in BC-B and BC-C, respectively, with different colors such as red, brown, blue, light yellow and transparency. However, no microplastics were found in the biocompost samples of BC-A and BC-D. Microplastic polymers such as polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polypropylene (PP), and ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) were identified through ATR-FTIR analysis. The results suggest that semi-urban agricultural gardening may lead to the accumulation of microplastics in terrestrial environments, which may negatively impact soil and plant health. This study contributes to growing research into microplastic contamination in organic compost and its potential impact on agriculture and terrestrial ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Plastic waste management has received significant attention in recent decades due to the urgent global environmental crisis caused by plastic pollution. The versatile and durable nature of plastic has led to its widespread usage across various sectors. However, its nonbiodegradable nature contributes to unsustainable production practices, leading to extensive landfill usage and posing threats to marine ecosystems and the food chain. To address these environmental concerns, numerous challenges have been recently addressed through investigating alternative approaches for disposing of plastic waste, with the construction sector emerging as a promising option. Incorporating plastic waste materials into concrete not only offers economic benefits but also provides a valid alternative to conventional disposal methods. This paper presents the results of different experimental studies, some of them available in the literature and others new, discussing the feasibility of integrating plastic waste into concrete and its impact on mechanical properties. The influence of different sizes, natures, treatments, and percentages of plastic waste in the concrete mixtures is dealt with in order to provide further data for helping to understand the nonunivocal results in the literature, under the conviction that only further observations can help to understand the mechanics of concrete with plastic aggregates. The experimental investigation highlighted that one parameter that is better than others and can be considered to compare different experimental investigations is the variation in weight (due to the effective volume of plastics in the mix), determining a sort of increasing of porosity that degrades the mechanical characteristics. However, this seems inconsistent in some cases. Therefore, the need for further research is highlighted to refine production methods and optimize mix designs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Simple Summary: In recent decades, the use of plastic has increased exponentially. If discarded improperly, plastic waste can harm the environment and biodiversity. Under the influence of solar UV radiation, wind, currents, and other natural factors, plastic breaks down into small particles known as microplastics (MPs, <5 mm in one dimension) or nanoplastics (NPs, <100 nm). These tiny particles, which are characterized by various forms such as fragments, sheets, filaments, foam, granules, and pellets, have become a major factor in environmental pollution. Birds play an important role in the global trophic network system and are widely used as indicators of biodiversity, pollution, and environmental change. The present study aims to investigate the number of microplastics bioaccumulated in specimens of Song Thrushes (Turdus philomelos), which are migratory birds wintering in Apulia, Italy. The specimens (n = 360) were hunted in the Bari countryside and donated for research purposes by hunters. Plastic debris was detected in the stomachs of 129 and 128 birds shot in December and January. The majority of ingested MPs were fibers, followed by films, fragments, and pellets. As for color, among all the MPs found, 31.75% were red, 30.13% were black, and 25.91% were blue, while the other colors were less represented. The high contamination of thrushes confirmed the ubiquity of MPs in terrestrial ecosystems. The term microplastics (MPs) describes a heterogeneous mixture of particles that can vary in size, color, and shape. Once released into the environment, MPs have various toxicological and physical effects on wildlife. The Song Thrush (Turdus philomelos) is a migratory species, staying in Italy in late autumn and winter. The aim of this study is to assess, quantify, and characterize the presence of microplastics in Song Thrushes hunted in the Apulia region of Italy. The birds (n = 360) were hunted in the Bari countryside and donated for research purposes by hunters. MPs were classified in relation to their shape in fibers, films, fragments, and pellets; then, they were divided according to their color and the length of the particles was measured. Nikon image analysis software was applied to the litter size measurements. Of the total of 360 birds, MPs were detected in the stomachs of 129 birds shot in December and 128 birds shot in January. The majority of ingested MPs were fibers that were observed in all contaminated birds. Film fragments were observed in every contaminated specimen. Among all the MPs found, 31.75% were red, 30.13% were black, and 25.91% were blue, while the other colors were less represented. This study provides the first analysis of MPs bioaccumulation in Song Thrushes wintering in the Apulia region, and the high contamination of thrushes confirmed the ubiquity of MPs in terrestrial ecosystems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The characterization of beached and marine microplastic debris is critical to understanding how plastic litter accumulates across the world's oceans and identifying hotspots that should be targeted for early cleanup efforts. Currently, the most common monitoring method to quantify microplastics at sea requires physical sampling using surface trawling and sifting for beached microplastics, which are then followed by manual counting and laboratory analysis. The need for manual counting is time-consuming, operatordependent, and incurs high costs, thereby preventing scalable deployment of consistent marine plastic monitoring worldwide. Here, we describe a workflow combining a simple experimental setup with advanced image processing techniques to conduct both quantitative and qualitative assessments of microplastic (0.05 cm < particle size <0.5 cm). The image processing relies on deep learning models designed for image segmentation and classification. The results demonstrated comparable or superior performance in comparison to manual identification for microplastic particles with a 96% accuracy. Thus, the use of the model offers an efficient, more robust, standardized, highly replicable, and less labor-intensive alternative to particle counting. In addition to the relative simplicity of the network architecture used that made it easy to train, the model presents promising prospects for better-standardized reporting of plastic particles surveyed in the environment. We also made the models and datasets open-source and created a user-friendly web interface for directly annotating new images. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ongoing international negotiations on a global plastics treaty will have pivotal implications for future efforts to transform the plastic economy. This is essential since the current use of plastic in the economy impacts the environment beyond the planetary carrying capacity. To ensure that the forthcoming Treaty can provide the foundation for this transition, the best available science must be made available in the negotiations, but with no formal scientific mechanism to inform the negotiations process, this is not ensured. The Scientists' Coalition for an Effective Plastic Treaty serves as an example of how the global scientific community has self-organized and come together to address this task, working with five different categories of science-policy communication. The Scientists' Coalition's work is made transparent here with the hope that it can inspire organization of scientific input into other future policy areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sandy beaches along the North African Mediterranean coast face significant challenges due to accumulating human-made debris (marine litter) and natural debris (beach wrack). Addressing these issues requires awareness of pollution and the ecological relevance of beach wrack, along with stakeholder involvement. This study quantifies beach litter pollution and identifies sources in Tunisia, Morocco, and Egypt, serving as a basis for ecosystem service assessments and further integration into the implementation of mitigation measures. High levels of plastic litter were found, ranging from 1565 to 7778 pieces per 100 m of beach length. Shoreline activities, tourism, and poor waste management were identified as the main sources of litter, with single-use plastics accounting for 41.1% of the debris. Further objectives include providing a list of suitable ecosystem services and developing management scenarios. Local stakeholders' perceptions of the impact of marine litter and beach wrack on ecosystem services were assessed using a scenario approach and different formats (i.e., stakeholder workshop, interviews, teaching). Stakeholders highlighted the negative impact of marine litter on cultural services, while beach wrack was perceived positively for regulating and maintenance services. This approach enhances awareness, interest, and knowledge in data-scarce regions, serving as a valuable tool for stakeholder engagement, elicitation of stakeholder knowledge, and teaching (i.e., learning tool). Limitations include the subjectivity of the results, limited participant reach, and dependence on stakeholder knowledge. Integrating stakeholder-based ecosystem service assessments into measure planning and decision making is essential for effective litter management and beach conservation efforts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The rapid increase in global plastic production and usage has led to global environmental contamination, with microplastics (MPs) emerging as a significant concern. Pollinators provide a crucial ecological service, while bee populations have been declining in recent years, and MPs have been recognized as a new risk factor contributing to their losses. Despite the pervasive distribution and persistence of MPs, understanding their risks to honey bees remains a critical knowledge gap. This review summarizes recent studies that investigate the toxicity of MPs on honey bee health from different perspectives. The findings revealed diverse and material-/size-/dosage-dependent outcomes, emphasizing the need for comprehensive assessments in the follow-up studies. MPs have been detected in honey and in bees' organs (e.g., gut and brain), posing potential threats to bee fitness, including altered behavior, cognitive abilities, compromised immunity, and dysfunction of the gut microbiota. It should be noticed that despite several laboratory studies suggesting the aforementioned adverse effects of MPs, field/semi-field experiments are still warranted. The synergistic toxicity of MPs with other environmental contaminants (pesticides, antibiotics, fungicides, heavy metals, etc.) still requires further investigation. Our review highlights the critical need to understand the relationships between MPs, pollinators, and the ecosystem to mitigate potential risks and ensure the sustainability of vital services provided by honey bees. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]