General Introduction of Microplastic: Uses, Types, and Generation

The tiny plastic particles known as microplastics, which are smaller than 5 millimetres in size, have raised environmental concerns on a global scale as a result of their wide spread and potential ecological impacts. They are generated through various sources and can be either primary microplastic or secondary microplastics depending on the nature of their generation. Primary microplastics produced intentionally and are used in industries such as cosmetics, personal care products, and textiles. Synthetic fibers from clothing, like polyester and nylon, are another significant source of primary microplastics, and through washing machines and wastewater treatment plants, it enters into the environment directly. However, due to various environmental forces, the large plastic-based products breakdown to generate secondary microplastics. All types of microplastics pose significant environmental concerns due to their persistence, mobility, and potential to accumulate in ecosystems. Microplastic also enters into the food chain and leads to potential health risks for both wildlife and humans. Efforts are being made globally to mitigate the generation and release of microplastics. Initiatives to improve waste management, increase recycling rates, and promote sustainable alternatives to plastic are also being implemented. Therefore, microplastics are small plastic particles that are generated through various sources, including intentional production and the breakdown of larger plastic items. As awareness grows, there is an increasing focus on reducing microplastic generation and developing sustainable solutions to tackle this pressing issue. In the present chapter, an attempt was made to overview the uses, types, and generation of microplastic to understand the uptake, prevalence, and fate of microplastics in different environments.