Microplastics in Terrestrial Ecosystem: Degradation Strategies for Its Mitigation

Microplastics (MPs) are emerging pollutants that pose a serious threat to biodiversity, which has become a global environmental concern. In addition, coronavirus disease (Covid-19) has increased the demand for single-use plastics, which has exacerbated the already existing plastic waste problem. Recent developments have brought increased attention to the potential threats of MPs to soil health and terrestrial ecosystems. Apart from their pervasive, persistent, and toxic nature, MPs are also capable of transporting toxic metals, microbes, pesticides, and other contaminants. Despite being present in every environmental compartment, MPs have not been sufficiently researched in terms of their distribution and environmental consequences. The indirect introduction of MPs into human beings by eating aquatic or agricultural products are affecting their health which is of immediate concern. Several physical, chemical, and biological methods leading to MPs degradation are discussed. It is crucial to consider degrading solutions from the perspectives of material science and chemistry in order to address the MPs problem, especially to successfully minimize the creation and reduce the potential impacts of these pollutants. Moreover, multidisciplinary research and creative fungal approaches for MPs biodegradation are effective and environmentally benign. Studies on the biodegradation of macro- and MPs by fungus have revealed that they may utilize these substances as their exclusive source of carbon and energy. The natural and distinctive potential of fungi to colonize substrates employing enzymes that may detoxify contaminants and operate on non-specific substrates is discussed in this chapter. It is expected to provide insight into the knowledge of MPs fate in the terrestrial environment and directions for future remediation research.