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http://dx.doi.org/10.17663/JWR.2020.22.2.153

A comprehensive review of microplastics: Sources, pathways, and implications  

Yano, K.A.V. (Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Kongju National University)
Reyes, N.J.D.G. (Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Kongju National University)
Geronimo, F.K.F. (Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Kongju National University)
Jeon, M.S. (Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Kongju National University)
Kim, Y. (Department of Environmental Engineering, Hanseo University)
Kim, L.H. (Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Kongju National University)
Publication Information
Journal of Wetlands Research / v.22, no.2, 2020 , pp. 153-160 More about this Journal
Abstract
Most studies defined microplastic (MP) as plastic particles less than 5 mm. The ubiquity of MP is raising awareness due to its potential risk to humans and the environment. MP can cause harmful effects to humans and living organisms. This paper review aimed to provide a better understanding of the sources, pathways, and impacts of MP in the environment. MP can be classified as primary and secondary in nature. Moreover, microplastic can also be classified as based on its physical and chemical characteristics. Stormwater and wastewater are important pathways of introducing MP in large water bodies. As compared to stormwater, the concentrations of MP in wastewater were relatively lower since wastewater treatment processes can contribute to the removal of MP. In terms of polymer distribution, wastewater contains a wider array of polymer varieties than stormwater runoff. The most common types of polymer found in wastewater and stormwater runoff were polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polystyrene (PS), polyethylene (PE) and polyethylene terephthalate (PET). The continuous discharge and the increasing number of MP in the environment can pose greater hazards and harmful effects on humans and other living organisms. Despite the growing number of publications in relation to MP, further studies are needed to define concrete regulations and management strategies for mitigating the detrimental effects of MP in the environment.
Keywords
microplastic; polymers; stormwater runoff; wastewater;
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