Microbial Nanobioremediation of Micro-Nanoplastics: Current Strategies, Challenges, and Future Prospects

Plastic is the most common man-made polymer. It possesses greater flexibility, durability, lower manufacturing cost, and lighter weight, leading to increased consumption and production of single-use plastics. In developed countries, plastic materials are used in packaging, construction, automobiles, medical devices, furniture, toys, etc. Improper disposal of plastic waste and poor degradation lead to massive accumulation in the environment. It degrades naturally with the help of sunlight, heat, oxygen level, and salinity into micro-nanoplastics (MNPs). The produced MNPs are major sources of plastic pollution affecting our entire ecosystem directly or indirectly, by emitting plastic waste contaminants for decades. The conventional method of micro-nanoplastic degradation produces highly toxic compounds, posing environmental and health risks. Bioremediation is considered to be a better alternative method for degrading MNPs. A combined research strategy is required for utilizing various technologies to enhance the remediation of MNPs. At present, the incorporation of nanotechnology, membrane technology, and enzyme technology has improved the bioremediation (BR) process. For instance, the interaction of nanoparticles such as SiO2, and fullerene 60 with microorganisms was found to decrease the lag phase and increase the biodegradation (BD) rate. The current review focuses on a comprehensive view of the microbial nanobioremediation (NBR) process to address the environmental issues caused by MNPs.