Microplastic Reduction in Municipal Solid Waste (MSW) Landfill

Reduction of microplastics (MPs) release into the environment calls for a comprehensive strategy that employs scientific and technological innovation. The tracing of MPs from their origins in plastic waste streams to their discharge into multiple environmental compartments is an example of the complicated route that demands a thorough evaluation. It highlights diverse sources of MPs leachate, soil, and air that infiltrate ecosystems. By exploring abiotic and biotic degradation mechanisms, influenced by factors like plastic composition, landfill conditions, and waste age, this chapter reveals the intricate nature of MPs formation. Detection techniques for MPs degradation are discussed, providing a foundation for accurate assessment. The risks MPs pose in landfills-soil, -water, and -air contamination, impacting both health and ecosystems are highlighted. Ecotoxicological effects on terrestrial and aquatic life emphasize the urgency of addressing this issue. Existing approaches to MPs removal within MSW landfills are presented, from physical separation to enhanced biodegradation methods. These strategies offer potential solutions to mitigate MPs pollution.