SOURCE, TRANSPORT, AND ACCUMULATION OF MICROFIBER WASTES IN THE ENVIRONMENT

Abstract

Increases in world population and a persistent need for plastics and plastic items are to blame for an ongoing rise in plastic production, trash creation and the ensuing ecological damage. The worldwide ecosystem is becoming more and more at risk from new pollutants like microfibres. One of the most popular research areas in environmental science seems to have been microfibre litter. Yet, there is disagreement on the environmental as well as ecological implications of the term “microfibre”. It is extremely difficult to find and implement strategies to limit the intake of microfibres due to the intricacy of the microfibre release processes and the elements involved. There is an urgent need for a thorough strategy that considers options at several levels. Toxic chemical elements may seep into food, beverages and water as a result of prolonged use and exposure of plastics and plastic items to high temperatures. Public health risks can result from the airborne emission of harmful compounds caused by the careless disposal of plastics on land and open-air burning. So, this chapter seeks to discuss a broad overview of the origins, modes of transmission, adverse effects of microfibres, regulatory and remediate approaches to handle these pollutants, ecology and accurate control strategies that are feasible for treatment of microfibre contamination. The final section will highlight the significant responsibilities for business, governments and investors in driving action on this problem.