Ecological consequences of microplastic pollution in sub-Saharan Africa aquatic ecosystems: An implication to environmental health
Edward Moto,
Miraji Hossein,
Ramadhani Bakari,
Alfred Said Mateso,
Juma Rajabu Selemani,
Salma Nkrumah,
Asha Ripanda,
Mwemezi J. Rwiza,
Elias Charles Nyanza,
Revocatus L. Machunda
Affiliations
Edward Moto
Department of Biology, College of Natural and Mathematical Sciences, P O Box 338, University of Dodoma, Dodoma, Tanzania
Miraji Hossein
Department of Chemistry, College of Natural and Mathematical Sciences, P O Box 338, University of Dodoma, Dodoma, Tanzania
Ramadhani Bakari
Department of Petroleum and Energy Engineering, The University of Dodoma, P.O Box 11090, Dodoma, Tanzania
Alfred Said Mateso
Department of Engineering and Energy Management, College of Earth Sciences and Engineering, The University of Dodoma, P.O. Box 11090, Dodoma, Tanzania
Juma Rajabu Selemani
Nelson Mandela – African Institution of Science and Technology, Nelson Mandera Road, P. O. Box 447, Arusha, Tanzania
Salma Nkrumah
Sokoine University of Agriculture, P O Box 3000, Morogoro, Tanzania
Asha Ripanda
Department of Chemistry, College of Natural and Mathematical Sciences, P O Box 338, University of Dodoma, Dodoma, Tanzania; Nelson Mandela – African Institution of Science and Technology, Nelson Mandera Road, P. O. Box 447, Arusha, Tanzania; Corresponding author at: Department of Chemistry, College of Natural and Mathematical Sciences, P O Box 338, University of Dodoma, Dodoma, Tanzania.
Mwemezi J. Rwiza
Nelson Mandela – African Institution of Science and Technology, Nelson Mandera Road, P. O. Box 447, Arusha, Tanzania
Elias Charles Nyanza
Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, School of Public Health, Catholic University of Health, and Allied Sciences (CUHAS), P. O Box 1464, Mwanza, Tanzania
Revocatus L. Machunda
Nelson Mandela – African Institution of Science and Technology, Nelson Mandera Road, P. O. Box 447, Arusha, Tanzania
Microplastic pollution (MPs) emerged as a significant environmental concern due to its persistent nature. These MPs particles endure in waters, soils, and even the atmosphere, posing potential threats to the entire ecosystem. Aquatic organisms are at risk of ingesting MPs, leading to accumulation in tissues, ultimately affecting entire food chain. This study aims to provide an overview of sources of MPs, distribution, and potential environmental impacts. MPs have been documented in various substances such as bottled water, salts, seafood, and even the air. However, the full extent of the health consequences on human exposure remains uncertain. Therefore, it is imperative that we draw public attention to the presence of these pollutants in the environment. To mitigate adverse effects of MPs, reducing plastic consumption, implementing improved waste management practices, and advocating sustainable behaviors are essential for well-being of natural ecosystems and the health human populations.
