Transport Mechanism of Microplastic in the Environment

Microplastics are small plastic particles that have evolved over the years as persistent contaminant in the environment and this have a detrimental effect on the environment. Plastics are abundantly produced worldwide and after immediate and subsequent use, they are released into the environment, therefore contributing to environmental pollution. These plastics degrade over time into microplastic, thus contributing to the secondary source of microplastic. Alternatively, microplastic can be manufactured primarily to meet specific needs. To be able to assess the environmental impact of these microplastics, there is a need to know how they are transported into the environment. This chapter aims to explore the transport mechanisms of microplastics in aquatic and terrestrial environments. Understanding the transport pathway of microplastics is important to predicting their environmental fate, assessing their potential ecological impact, and developing effective mitigation strategies. Wind and water are important agents for microplastic transport. They can be transported further by conditions of the environment or act as carriers of other pollutants.