Plastic pollution and climate change are critical interconnected environmental crises that significantly impact ecosystems and human health. Microplastics (MPs), originating from direct releases and larger plastics’ fragmentation, are exacerbated by climate-related factors such as rising temperatures and extreme weather events. These conditions accelerate plastic degradation, leading to the dispersal of MPs into new areas, disrupting marine ecosystems, and acting as carriers for harmful pollutants that threaten biodiversity and human health. The environmental implications are profound, with global plastic production exceeding 400 million tons in 2022, yet only 9% of plastic waste is recycled. The lifecycle of plastics contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, further exacerbating global warming. Developing nations, particularly those with inadequate waste management systems, face escalating challenges that necessitate comprehensive strategies for prevention and remediation. Moreover, plastic pollution, especially microplastics, poses severe threats to marine, terrestrial, and natural ecosystems, significantly impacting biodiversity and ecosystem health. As plastics degrade, they release harmful greenhouse gases such as methane, worsening climate change and increasing the vulnerability of aquatic organisms. This chapter underscores the importance of interdisciplinary approaches, including public awareness initiatives and sustainable alternatives, to address these intertwined crises. By investigating the ecological and physiological impacts of MPs and advocating for integrated solutions, the chapter aims to inspire global action toward a sustainable future. Urgent research and action are needed to counter the widespread impacts of plastic pollution, safeguard ecosystems, and ensure food security for future generations.

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Microplastics and Climate Change: Unravelling the Interconnected Global Crisis

  • Rinkesh Nemichand Wanjari,
  • Karankumar Kishorkumar Ramteke,
  • Adnan Amin,
  • Ishtiyaq Ahmad,
  • Pranali Prabhakar Marbade,
  • Hudisa Banoo,
  • Dechen Chuskit,
  • Zaheer Abass

摘要

Plastic pollution and climate change are critical interconnected environmental crises that significantly impact ecosystems and human health. Microplastics (MPs), originating from direct releases and larger plastics’ fragmentation, are exacerbated by climate-related factors such as rising temperatures and extreme weather events. These conditions accelerate plastic degradation, leading to the dispersal of MPs into new areas, disrupting marine ecosystems, and acting as carriers for harmful pollutants that threaten biodiversity and human health. The environmental implications are profound, with global plastic production exceeding 400 million tons in 2022, yet only 9% of plastic waste is recycled. The lifecycle of plastics contributes to greenhouse gas emissions, further exacerbating global warming. Developing nations, particularly those with inadequate waste management systems, face escalating challenges that necessitate comprehensive strategies for prevention and remediation. Moreover, plastic pollution, especially microplastics, poses severe threats to marine, terrestrial, and natural ecosystems, significantly impacting biodiversity and ecosystem health. As plastics degrade, they release harmful greenhouse gases such as methane, worsening climate change and increasing the vulnerability of aquatic organisms. This chapter underscores the importance of interdisciplinary approaches, including public awareness initiatives and sustainable alternatives, to address these intertwined crises. By investigating the ecological and physiological impacts of MPs and advocating for integrated solutions, the chapter aims to inspire global action toward a sustainable future. Urgent research and action are needed to counter the widespread impacts of plastic pollution, safeguard ecosystems, and ensure food security for future generations.