Removal of microplastics from wastewater: available techniques and way forward

Microplastics are the newly emerged contaminants having presence in almost every part of the globe. Despite being small in size, microplastic particles have proved to be harmful for plants, animals, humans, and for the ecosystem in general. Water is one of the most important routes through which it transfers from one place to another. Moreover, water is also an important route for the ingestion of microplastics in human, which results in various health issues, such as cancer, mutagenic and teratogenic abnormalities, etc. Thus, microplastics in water is an emerging public health issue which needs attention and hence, it is important to get acquaintance with the removal techniques of microplastics in wastewater. Although, there are some biological, chemical/electrochemical, and physical techniques to remove microplastics, their wide scale applicability and cost-effectiveness is an issue. In this review, we have discussed the existing and upcoming treatment technologies for the removal of microplastics from wastewater and also tried to present an overview for the future approaches.

Automated summary

Microplastics, as newly emerged contaminants, pose a threat to plants, animals, humans, and ecosystems globally. Water serves as a key pathway for the spread and ingestion of microplastics. Various techniques exist for the removal of microplastics from wastewater, but their widespread applicability and cost-effectiveness remain a challenge.