Micro- and nano-plastics pollution and its potential remediation pathway by phytoremediation

Main conclusion This review proposed that phytoremediation could be applied for the decontamination of MPs/NPs.Micro- and nano-plastics (MPs < 5 mm; NPs < 100 nm) are emerging contaminants. Much of the recent concerns have focused on the investigation of their pollution and their potential eco-toxicity. Yet little review was available on the decontamination of MPs/NPs. Recently, the uptake of MPs/NPs by plants has been confirmed. Here, in view of the current knowledge, this review introduces MPs/NPs pollution and highlights the updated information about the interaction between MPs/NPs and plants. This review proposed that phytoremediation could be a potential possible way for the in situ remediation of MPs/NPs-contaminated environment. The possible mechanisms, influencing factors, and existing problems are summarized, and further research needs are proposed. This review herein provides new insights into the development of plant-based process for emerging pollutants decontamination, as well as the alleviation of MPs/NPs-induced toxicity to the ecosystem.

Automated summary

This review suggests that phytoremediation can be used for the decontamination of micro- and nano-plastics. Microplastics and nanoplastics are emerging contaminants that have raised concerns due to their pollution and potential eco-toxicity. However, there is limited review on the decontamination of these pollutants. Recent studies have confirmed the uptake of micro- and nano-plastics by plants. This review presents the pollution of micro- and nano-plastics and highlights the interaction between these pollutants and plants. It proposes that phytoremediation could be a potential method for in situ remediation of environments contaminated with micro- and nano-plastics, and discusses the mechanisms, influencing factors, existing problems, and future research needs. This review provides new insights into the development of plant-based processes for decontamination of emerging pollutants and mitigation of toxicity to ecosystems caused by micro- and nano-plastics.