Microplastics: An Overview of Sources, Distribution, and Removal Methods

Abstract

Microplastics (MPs), defined as plastic particles smaller than 5 mm, are persistent pollutants increasingly detected in both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems due to widespread anthropogenic activity. Their small size and non-biodegradable nature allow them to accumulate and exert complex effects on biotic systems not only through physical presence but also by transporting harmful substances such as endocrine-disrupting chemicals and heavy metals. This review identifies primary and secondary sources of MPs, outlines their environmental distribution pathways, and evaluates their behavior in different ecosystems. Furthermore, it critically examines current microplastic removal technologies, highlighting limitations in spectroscopic and microscopic detection methods and comparing the effectiveness of traditional treatment systems with advanced approaches such as membrane filtration and nanomaterials. The study concludes with targeted recommendations for improving removal efficiency and monitoring strategies, emphasizing the need for interdisciplinary collaboration and policy support to address microplastic pollution sustainably.