pH-responsive magnetic artificial melanin with tunable aggregation-induced stronger magnetism for rapid remediation of plastic fragments

Navigating the nexus: climate dynamics and microplastics pollution in coastal ecosystems

Microplastics (MPs) pollution is an emerging environmental health concern, impacting soil, plants, animals, and humans through their entry into the food chain via bioaccumulation. Human activities such as improper solid waste dumping are significant sources that ultimately transport MPs into the water bodies of the coastal areas. Moreover, there is a complex interplay between the coastal climate dynamics, environmental factors, the burgeoning issue of MPs pollution and the complex web of coastal pollution. We embark on a comprehensive journey, synthesizing the latest research across multiple disciplines to provide a holistic understanding of how these inter-connected factors shape and reshape the coastal ecosystems. The comprehensive review also explores the impact of the current climatic patterns on coastal regions, the intricate pathways through which MPs can infiltrate marine environments, and the cascading effects of coastal pollution on ecosystems and human societies in terms of health and socio-economic impacts in coastal regions. The novelty of this review concludes the changes in climate patterns have crucial effects on coastal regions, proceeding MPs as more prevalent, deteriorating coastal ecosystems, and hastening the transfer of MPs. The continuous rising sea levels, ocean acidification, and strong storms result in habitat loss, decline in biodiversity, and economic repercussion. Feedback mechanisms intensify pollution effects, underlying the urgent demand for environmental conservation contribution. In addition, the complex interaction between human, industry, and biodiversity demanding cutting edge strategies, innovative approaches such as remote sensing with artificial intelligence for monitoring, biobased remediation techniques, global cooperation in governance, policies to lessen the negative socioeconomic and environmental effects of coastal pollution.

Application of carbon-based adsorbents in the remediation of micro- and nanoplastics

Micro-nano plastics (MNPs) are emerging contaminants that can easily enter the food chain, posing risks to both the aquatic ecosystem and human health. Various physical, biological, and chemical methods have been explored to remove MNPs from water, and recently, adsorption technology has gained attention as an effective approach. Among the potential candidates, carbon-based adsorbent has emerged as a promising choice due to their low cost, eco-friendly nature, and sustainability. This paper summarizes recent advancements in MNP removal using carbon-based adsorbents, with a focus on the modification methods and adsorption mechanisms. Additionally, the factors influencing the adsorption performance and the methods for characterizing the adsorption mechanism are analyzed. Finally, the advantages and disadvantages of carbon-based adsorbents over other adsorbents are discussed, along with the current state of sustainable recycling and future research prospects.

Analytical methods for microplastics in the environment: a review

Microplastic pollution is a recently discovered threat to ecosystems requiring the development of new analytical methods. Here, we review classical and advanced methods for microplastic analysis. Methods include visual analysis, laser diffraction particle, dynamic light scattering, scanning electron microscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, thermal analysis, mass spectrometry, aptamer and in vitro selection, and flow cytometry.