Microplastics: Sources, Interactions, and Impacts in Humans

Microplastics (MPs) are miniscule plastic fragments formed as a result of the breakdown of larger plastic materials and a variety of consumer products. These minuscule particles, measuring less than 5 mm, may inadvertently enter the respiratory system, potentially causing breathing issues contingent on an individual’s susceptibility and the nature of the plastic involved. We, the consumers, unwisely discard old (and unused) plastics after mere single use, which has now construed to have pose a significant environmental challenge as the materials build up in waterways and landforms. Adding to the above, improper disposal of tons of plastic wastes poses a huge threat to humans, animals, and the environment as well. Plastics break into microns and accumulate, raising concerns about environmental and human harm. As a consequence, plastics impact daily life, from technology to healthcare, yet their single-use disposal harms ecosystems. While there is ample research on environmental effects, only limited study exists on their impact within human bodies. Consequently, this chapter discusses sources, entry, effects, and associated hazards of these micro-/nanoplastics on human and environmental health, along with an effort to offer strategies to prevent or reduce usage of plastics.