Assessment of Potential Ecological Risk of Microplastics in India
摘要
The prevalence of microplastics (MPs), identified as plastic particles of smaller- size (<5 mm), poses a significant global environmental concern, particularly for aquatic ecosystems. Amidst India's ongoing battle with plastic pollution, addressing the ecological impact of MPs becomes imperative. This chapter provides a comprehensive exploration of MPs pollution in India, encompassing both terrestrial and marine environments. Although India is widely recognized as a major source of marine plastic pollution, research on MPs contamination in its freshwater habitats remains sparse. Beginning with a detailed overview of MPs, including their origins, diversity, and persistence, the chapter scrutinizes the current state of MPs contamination across India's diverse environmental landscapes. With a focus on understanding MPs pollution in freshwater systems, the chapter offers cutting-edge insights into MPs abundance, composition, and associated ecological risks. Furthermore, it presents a detailed review of MPs studies conducted in India over the past two decades, highlighting the potential genetic effects of indirect MPs intake on human health, like sterility, obesity, and chronic cancer. To mitigate environmental pollution risks, the chapter emphasizes the necessity of controlling the overuse of plastics and the implementation of laws and strategies aimed at curtailing the sources of plastic waste. In conclusion, the chapter advocates for the adoption of sustainable management practices to effectively mitigate the ecological risks posed by MPs in India.