Worldwide distribution and abundance of microplastic: How dire is the situation?. Issue 10 (October 2018)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Shahul Hamid, Fauziah; Bhatti, Mehran Sanam; Anuar, Norkhairiyah; Anuar, Norkhairah; Mohan, Priya; Periathamby, Agamuthu
• Is Part Of: Waste management & research. Volume 36:Issue 10(2018:Oct.)
• Page Start: 873
• Page End: 897
• Publication Date: 2018-10
• Subjects: Marine debris -- freshwater pollution -- polyethylene -- polypropylene -- ocean -- plastics -- impacts on fauna; Factory and trade waste -- Periodicals; Refuse and refuse disposal -- Periodicals; Municipal engineering -- Periodicals; Déchets industriels -- Périodiques; Déchets -- Élimination -- Périodiques; Génie urbain -- Périodiques; 628
• DOI: 10.1177/0734242X18785730
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0734-242X

Abstract

The widespread occurrence of microplastic has invaded the environment to an extent that it appears to be present throughout the globe. This review investigated the global abundance and distribution of microplastics in marine and freshwater ecosystems. Furthermore, the issues and challenges have been addressed for better findings in microplastics studies. Findings revealed that the accumulation of microplastics varies geographically, with locations, hydrodynamic conditions, environmental pressure, and time. From this review, it is crucial that proper regulations are proposed and implemented in order to reduce the occurrence of microplastics in the aquatic environment. Without appropriate law and regulations, microplastic pollution will eventually threaten human livelihood.