Microplastics - ecosystem pollutants

Abstract

The presence of microplastics in different ecosystems has been intensively studied since the beginning of the 21st century. They have since been found in all components of the environment as well as in a number of organisms. Microplastics (MPs) is a term for particles whose size is 1 μm–5 mm that are formed during the breakdown of larger plastic products or are produced in microsizes for various industrial and cosmetic products. The distribution of these particles is due to their rapid transportation over large distances which is facilitated mainly by their small size and low density. There are still no uniform methods and standardised procedures for sampling and analysis. Therefore, the facts about the occurrence, distribution and threats to ecosystems and human health from MPs are not yet fully understood. This literature review is a broad presentation of the state of knowledge on the distribution of MPs in the atmosphere, water, soil and organisms. In addition, this document describes the most widely used methods for separation, identification and characterisation of MPs.

Keywords

• microplastics
• environmental protection
• toxicological effects
• health impacts