Microplastics in the Environment: Its Sources, Occurrence, Impact on Human Health and Environment

Microplastics is gaining global attention because of recent encounter in aquatic and terrestrial environments and related ecological impacts. Microplastics have been encountered in drinking water, air, freshwater environment, biota, marine environment and table salt, presenting a very serious human exposure risk. However, detailed analytical and practical methods for quantification and characterization of microplastics still remain very limited. Studies about the very serious harmful effects on human health via dietary and respiratory exposures are also very limited. To address these issues, we have reviewed various studies related to its quantification, occurrence, microplastic encounter in ecosystem, and qualification methods of microplastics in the environment. Homo sapiens ingests microplastics through various mediums such as drinking water, inhalation and sea food. Total ingested particles ingested by homo-sapiens are estimated more than 100 particles/person annually. Floating Microplastics are very harmful for the digestive and respiratory systems through ingestion and respiratory. Considering the quantum of particles ingested by any organism in the environment, it is the need of the hour to understand the expected hazardous effects of microplastics related to human health.