Editors: Rahul Singh, Neeta Raj Sharma

Microplastic Pollution: Causes, Effects and Control

eBook: US $49 Special Offer (PDF + Printed Copy): US $84
Printed Copy: US $59
Library License: US $196
ISBN: 978-981-5165-11-1 (Print)
ISBN: 978-981-5165-10-4 (Online)
Year of Publication: 2023
DOI: 10.2174/97898151651041230101

Introduction

Microplastic Pollution: Causes, Effects, and Control sheds light on the causes, effects, and control of microplastic pollution, providing valuable insights into the tools and techniques for analysis, the impact on ecosystems, and the potential risks to human well-being. The editors focus on the urgency of addressing this global environmental challenge through collaborative efforts and sustainable solutions. This reference features 10 edited chapters covering multiple aspects of microplastic pollution. The book introduces the reader to various tools and techniques used to analyze microplastic pollution in both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. It then examines the sources, pathways, and levels of microplastic contamination in the environment and explains how to evaluate the potential health risks for the nearby communities. The impact of microplastic on flora and fauna is presented in one chapter. To emphasize the importance of assessing microplastic contamination, the editors present a case study conducted in Thoothukudi, South India, to explore the implications of microplastic pollution on human health. The book also provides information on solutions to microplastic pollution including the use of bioplastics and removal techniques.

Microplastic Pollution: Causes, Effects, and Control equips readers with a complete understanding of the global challenge of microplastics, fostering awareness and encouraging further research and action to protect our ecosystems and human health from their detrimental impact. It is an ideal handbook for environmental science researchers and students who need to understand microplastic pollution and plan environmental impact assessments for academic research and professional projects.

Key features:

  • - Comprehensive coverage of microplastic pollution with 10 structured chapters
  • - Informs readers about important parameters to understand and measure the impact of microplastics on local fauna, flora and the surrounding environment
  • - Covers evaluation and remediation of microplastics in both terrestrial and marine environments
  • - Includes references for advanced readers
  • - Includes a case study on the effect of microplastics in Thoothukudi, South India

Preface

In today's time, microplastic is known as an emerging pollutant. It was first recognized in an ocean, but as the search and analysis continued, it was claimed to be present in fresh water, groundwater, soil and even in the air. Microplastics in the environment can be of two types, the primary source which is made intensively in cosmetic products and the secondary source which is formed due to the degradation of plastics. As the search is increasing, the amount of degraded plastic and the negative impact seem to be increasing.

There is a lot of confusion about the name of microplastics, because its size starts from < 5 mm. Like its name, its sampling and analysis are also quite complex. As far as the impact is concerned, it is not only harmful in itself, but it also takes the form of a multiple-stressor by accumulating many hydrophobic contaminants in the water.

The editors would first like to thank all contributing to this important topic. We, thank you to Nafiaah Naqash who contributed significantly to the compilation of this book. We also thank the publication team wholeheartedly, from whose side we got full support, and the result is in front of you in the form of this book.

Rahul Singh
School of Bioengineering and Biosciences
Lovely Professional University
Punjab, India

&

Neeta Raj Sharma
School of Bioengineering and Biosciences
Lovely Professional University
Punjab, India