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Wang L, Li S, Hao Y, Liu X, Liu Y, Zuo L, Tai F, Yin L, Young LJ, Li D. Exposure to polystyrene microplastics reduces sociality and brain oxytocin levels through the gut-brain axis in mice. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 945:174026. [PMID: 38885706 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.174026] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/14/2024] [Revised: 06/09/2024] [Accepted: 06/13/2024] [Indexed: 06/20/2024]
Abstract
The rising global prevalence of microplastics (MPs) has highlighted their diverse toxicological effects. The oxytocin (OT) system in mammals, deeply intertwined with social behaviors, is recognized to be vulnerable to environmental stressors. We hypothesized that MP exposure might disrupt this system, a topic not extensively studied. We investigated the effects of MPs on behavioral neuroendocrinology via the gut-brain axis by exposing adolescent male C57BL/6 mice to varied sizes (5 μm and 50 μm) and concentrations (100 μg/L and 1000 μg/L) of polystyrene MPs over 10 weeks. The results demonstrated that exposure to 50 μm MPs significantly reduced colonic mucin production and induced substantial alterations in gut microbiota. Notably, the 50 μm-100 μg/L group showed a significant reduction in OT content within the medial prefrontal cortex and associated deficits in sociality, along with damage to the blood-brain barrier. Importantly, blocking the vagal pathway ameliorated these behavioral impairments, emphasizing the pivotal role of the gut-brain axis in mediating neurobehavioral outcomes. Our findings confirm the toxicity of MPs on sociality and the corresponding neuroendocrine systems, shedding light on the potential hazards and adverse effects of environmental MPs exposure on social behavior and neuroendocrine frameworks in social mammals, including humans.
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Affiliation(s)
- Limin Wang
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050024, China; Hebei Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Environment, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050024, China; Ecology Postdoctoral Research Station at Hebei Normal University, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050024, China
| | - Shuxin Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050024, China
| | - Yaotong Hao
- Ocean College, Hebei Agricultural University, Qinhuangdao, Hebei 066003, China
| | - Xu Liu
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050024, China
| | - Yaqing Liu
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050024, China
| | - Lirong Zuo
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050024, China
| | - Fadao Tai
- Institute of Brain and Behavioral Sciences, College of Life Sciences, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, Shaanxi 710062, China
| | - Liyun Yin
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050024, China; Hebei Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Environment, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050024, China
| | - Larry J Young
- Center for Translational Social Neuroscience, Emory National Primate Research Center, Emory University, Atlanta, GA 3032, United States; Center for Social Neural Networks, Faculty of Human Sciences, University of Tsukuba, Tsukuba, Ibaraki 305-857, Japan
| | - Dongming Li
- Hebei Key Laboratory of Animal Physiology, Biochemistry and Molecular Biology, College of Life Sciences, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050024, China; Hebei Collaborative Innovation Center for Eco-Environment, Hebei Normal University, Shijiazhuang, Hebei 050024, China.
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2
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Zhao B, Richardson RE, You F. Microplastics monitoring in freshwater systems: A review of global efforts, knowledge gaps, and research priorities. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 477:135329. [PMID: 39088945 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135329] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 05/10/2024] [Revised: 07/11/2024] [Accepted: 07/24/2024] [Indexed: 08/03/2024]
Abstract
The escalating production of synthetic plastics and inadequate waste management have led to pervasive microplastic (MP) contamination in aquatic ecosystems. MPs, typically defined as particles smaller than 5 mm, have become an emerging pollutant in freshwater environments. While significant concern about MPs has risen since 2014, research has predominantly concentrated on marine settings, there is an urgent need for a more in-depth critical review to systematically summarize the current global efforts, knowledge gaps, and research priorities for MP monitoring in freshwater systems. This review evaluates the current understanding of MP monitoring in freshwater environments by examining the distribution, characteristics, and sources of MPs, alongside the progression of analytical methods with quantitative evidence. Our findings suggest that MPs are widely distributed in global freshwater systems, with higher abundances found in areas with intense human economic activities, such as the United States, Europe, and China. MP abundance distributions vary across different water bodies (e.g., rivers, lakes, estuaries, and wetlands), with sampling methods and size range selections significantly influencing reported MP abundances. Despite great global efforts, there is still a lack of harmonized analyzing framework and understanding of MP pollution in specific regions and facilities. Future research should prioritize the development of standardized analysis protocols and open-source MP datasets to facilitate data comparison. Additionally, exploring the potential of state-of-the-art artificial intelligence for rapid, accurate, and large-scale modeling and characterization of MPs is crucial to inform effective strategies for managing MP pollution in freshwater ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bu Zhao
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Ruth E Richardson
- School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA
| | - Fengqi You
- Robert Frederick Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA; Systems Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, NY 14853, USA.
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3
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Asteray DB, Elsaigh WA. Waste Plastic to Roads - HDPE-modified Bitumen and PET Plastic Fibres for Road Maintenance in South Africa: A Review. WASTE MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOLID WASTES AND PUBLIC CLEANSING ASSOCIATION, ISWA 2024:734242X241263008. [PMID: 39069720 DOI: 10.1177/0734242x241263008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/30/2024]
Abstract
This review article provides a comprehensive analysis of the transformative potential of waste plastic in South Africa, with a specific focus on high-density polyethylene-modified bitumen and polyethylene terephthalate plastic fibres asphalt. The review encompasses a wide range of topics, including the environmental and socio-economic impacts of plastic waste, the current state of plastic waste management practices in South Africa, and the potential use of waste plastic in road construction. The aim is to critically evaluate the compatibility of recycled waste plastics as bitumen modifiers and fibre to enhance road performance. Additionally, it explores the challenges and opportunities associated with the incorporation of waste plastic in road construction, shedding light on the environmental, economic and technological aspects. The review also emphasizes the need for targeted interventions and collaborative efforts from the South African government and industry stakeholders to address plastic waste management challenges and promote sustainable infrastructure development. Overall, this review provides valuable insights into the transformative potential of waste plastic in South African road maintenance and offers a roadmap for future research and initiatives in this critical area of sustainable development.
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Affiliation(s)
- Demiss B Asteray
- Department of Civil Engineering and Environmental Engineering and Building Science, College of Science, Engineering and Technology, University of South Africa, Johannesburg, South Africa
| | - Walied A Elsaigh
- Department of Civil Engineering and Environmental Engineering and Building Science, College of Science, Engineering and Technology, University of South Africa, Johannesburg, South Africa
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4
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Chiu MC, Ao S, Ling C, He F, Luo Q, Wen Z, Cai Q, Resh VH. Meta-ecosystem Frameworks Can Enhance Control of the Biotic Transport of Microplastics. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:12846-12852. [PMID: 38975878 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c04444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/09/2024]
Abstract
The lack of systematic approaches and analyses to identify, quantify, and manage the biotic transport of microplastics (MPs) along cross-ecosystem landscapes prevents the current goals of sustainable environmental development from being met. This Perspective proposes a meta-ecosystem framework, which considers organismal and resource flows among ecosystems to shed light on the research and management challenges related to both abiotic and biotic MP transport at landscape levels. We discuss MP transport pathways through species movements and trophic transfers among ecosystems and sub-ecosystems, and highlight these pathways in the mitigation of MP pollution. The integration of biotic pathways across landscapes prioritizes management actions for MP transport using diverse approaches such as wastewater treatment and plastic removal policies to mitigate contamination. In addition, our framework emphasizes the potential sink enhancement of MPs through habitat conservation and enhancement of riparian vegetation. By considering the mechanisms of meta-ecosystem dynamics through the processes of biotic dispersal, accumulation, and the ultimate fate of MPs, advances in the environmental impact assessment and management of MP production can proceed more effectively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ming-Chih Chiu
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430061, China
- Center for Marine Environmental Studies (CMES), Ehime University, Matsuyama 790-0825, Japan
| | - Sicheng Ao
- Key Laboratory of Urban Environment and Health, Ningbo Observation and Research Station, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen 361021, China
| | - Chang Ling
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430061, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100084, China
| | - Fengzhi He
- State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130102, China
- Leibniz Institute of Freshwater Ecology and Inland Fisheries, Berlin 12587, Germany
| | - Qingyi Luo
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430061, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100084, China
- Department of Transdisciplinary Science and Engineering, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Tokyo 152-8550, Japan
| | - Zihao Wen
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430061, China
| | - Qinghua Cai
- State Key Laboratory of Freshwater Ecology and Biotechnology, Institute of Hydrobiology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430061, China
| | - Vincent H Resh
- Department of Environmental Science, Policy & Management, University of California, Berkeley, California 94720, United States
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5
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Chen L, Yu X, Gao M, Xu C, Zhang J, Zhang X, Zhu M, Cheng Y. Renewable biomass-based aerogels: from structural design to functional regulation. Chem Soc Rev 2024; 53:7489-7530. [PMID: 38894663 DOI: 10.1039/d3cs01014g] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/21/2024]
Abstract
Global population growth and industrialization have exacerbated the nonrenewable energy crises and environmental issues, thereby stimulating an enormous demand for producing environmentally friendly materials. Typically, biomass-based aerogels (BAs), which are mainly composed of biomass materials, show great application prospects in various fields because of their exceptional properties such as biocompatibility, degradability, and renewability. To improve the performance of BAs to meet the usage requirements of different scenarios, a large number of innovative works in the past few decades have emphasized the importance of micro-structural design in regulating macroscopic functions. Inspired by the ubiquitous random or regularly arranged structures of materials in nature ranging from micro to meso and macro scales, constructing different microstructures often corresponds to completely different functions even with similar biomolecular compositions. This review focuses on the preparation process, design concepts, regulation methods, and the synergistic combination of chemical compositions and microstructures of BAs with different porous structures from the perspective of gel skeleton and pore structure. It not only comprehensively introduces the effect of various microstructures on the physical properties of BAs, but also analyzes their potential applications in the corresponding fields of thermal management, water treatment, atmospheric water harvesting, CO2 absorption, energy storage and conversion, electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding, biological applications, etc. Finally, we provide our perspectives regarding the challenges and future opportunities of BAs. Overall, our goal is to provide researchers with a thorough understanding of the relationship between the microstructures and properties of BAs, supported by a comprehensive analysis of the available data.
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Affiliation(s)
- Linfeng Chen
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xiaoxiao Yu
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, People's Republic of China.
| | - Mengyue Gao
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, People's Republic of China.
| | - Chengjian Xu
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, People's Republic of China.
| | - Junyan Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, People's Republic of China.
| | - Xinhai Zhang
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, People's Republic of China.
| | - Meifang Zhu
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yanhua Cheng
- State Key Laboratory for Modification of Chemical Fibers and Polymer Materials, College of Materials Science and Engineering, Donghua University, Shanghai 201620, People's Republic of China.
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6
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Choudhury TR, Riad S, Uddin FJ, Maksud MA, Alam MA, Chowdhury AMS, Mubin AN, Islam ARMT, Malafaia G. Microplastics in multi-environmental compartments: Research advances, media, and global management scenarios. JOURNAL OF CONTAMINANT HYDROLOGY 2024; 265:104379. [PMID: 38851130 DOI: 10.1016/j.jconhyd.2024.104379] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/27/2024] [Revised: 05/06/2024] [Accepted: 06/02/2024] [Indexed: 06/10/2024]
Abstract
During the past decades, microplastics (MPs) have become an emerging concern due to their persistence and potential environmental threat. MP pollution has become so drastic that it has been found in the human food chain, breast milk, polar regions, and even the Himalayan basin, lake, etc. Inflammation, pulmonary hypertension, vascular occlusions, increased coagulability and blood cell cytotoxicity, disruption of immune function, neurotoxicity, and neurodegenerative diseases can all be brought on by severe microplastic exposure. Although many MPs studies have been performed on single environmental compartments, MPs in multi-environmental compartments have yet to be explored fully. This review aims to summarize the muti-environmental media, detection tools, and global management scenarios of MPs. The study revealed that MPs could significantly alter C flow through the soil-plant system, the structure and metabolic status of the microbial community, soil pH value, biomass of plant shoots and roots, chlorophyll, leaf C and N contents, and root N contents. This review reveals that MPs may negatively affect many C-dependent soil functions. Different methods have been developed to detect the MPs from these various environmental sources, including microscopic observation, density separation, Raman, and FT-IR analysis. Several articles have focused on MPs in individual environmental sources with a developed evaluation technique. This review revealed the extensive impacts of MPs on soil-plant systems, microbial communities, and soil functions, especially on water, suggesting possible disturbances to vital ecological processes. Furthermore, the broad range of detection methods explored emphasizes the significance of reliable analytical techniques in precisely evaluating levels of MP contamination in various environmental media. This paper critically discusses MPs' sources, occurrences, and global management scenarios in all possible environmental media and ecological health impacts. Future research opportunities and required sustainable strategies have also been suggested from Bangladesh and international perspectives based on challenges faced due to MP's pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tasrina Rabia Choudhury
- Analytical Chemistry Laboratory, Chemistry Division, Atomic Energy Center Dhaka, Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh.
| | - Syed Riad
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - Foyez Jalal Uddin
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
| | - M A Maksud
- Analytical Chemistry Laboratory, Chemistry Division, Atomic Energy Center Dhaka, Bangladesh Atomic Energy Commission, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - M Abbas Alam
- Department of Applied Chemistry and Chemical Engineering, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh; Bangladesh Accreditation Board, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | | | - Al-Nure Mubin
- Department of Disaster Management, Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur 5400, Bangladesh
| | - Abu Reza Md Towfiqul Islam
- Department of Disaster Management, Begum Rokeya University, Rangpur 5400, Bangladesh; Department of Development Studies, Daffodil International University, Dhaka 1216, Bangladesh.
| | - Guilherme Malafaia
- Post-Graduation Program in Conservation of Cerrado Natural Resources, Goiano Federal Institute, Urutaí, GO, Brazil; Post-Graduation Program in Ecology, Conservation, and Biodiversity, Federal University of Uberlândia, Uberlândia, MG, Brazil; Post-Graduation Program in Biotechnology and Biodiversity, Federal University of Goiás, Goiânia, GO, Brazil.
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7
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Zhao X, You F. Microplastic Human Dietary Uptake from 1990 to 2018 Grew across 109 Major Developing and Industrialized Countries but Can Be Halved by Plastic Debris Removal. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:8709-8723. [PMID: 38656828 PMCID: PMC11112738 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.4c00010] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/01/2024] [Revised: 04/10/2024] [Accepted: 04/11/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs), plastic particles smaller than 5 mm, are now a growing environmental and public health issue, as they are detected pervasively in freshwater and marine environments, ingested by organisms, and then enter the human body. Industrial development drives this environmental burden caused by MP formation and human uptake by elevating plastic pollution levels and shaping the domestic dietary structure. We map the MP human uptake across 109 global countries on five continents from 1990 to 2018, focusing on the world's major coastlines that are affected by plastic pollution that affects the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs): SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 14 (Life Below Water), and SDG 15 (Life on Land). Amid rapid industrial growth, Indonesia tops the global per capita MP dietary intake at 15 g monthly. In Asian, African, and American countries, including China and the United States, airborne and dietary MP uptake increased over 6-fold from 1990 to 2018. Eradicating 90% of global aquatic plastic debris can help decrease MP uptake by more than 48% in Southeast Asian countries that peak MP uptake. To reduce MP uptake and potential public health risks, governments in developing and industrialized countries in Asia, Europe, Africa, and North and South America should incentivize the removal of free plastic debris from freshwater and saltwater environments through advanced water treatment and effective solid waste management practices.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Zhao
- Systems
Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
| | - Fengqi You
- Systems
Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
- Robert
Frederick Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
- Cornell
Atkinson Center for Sustainability, Cornell
University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
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8
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Li NY, Zhong B, Guo Y, Li XX, Yang Z, He YX. Non-negligible impact of microplastics on wetland ecosystems. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 924:171252. [PMID: 38423326 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171252] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 02/14/2024] [Accepted: 02/22/2024] [Indexed: 03/02/2024]
Abstract
There has been much concern about microplastic (MP) pollution in marine and soil environments, but attention is gradually shifting towards wetland ecosystems, which are a transitional zone between aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. This paper comprehensively reviews the sources of MPs in wetland ecosystems, as well as their occurrence characteristics, factors influencing their migration, and their effects on animals, plants, microorganisms, and greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. It was found that MPs in wetland ecosystems originate mainly from anthropogenic sources (sewage discharge, and agricultural and industrial production) and natural sources (rainfall-runoff, atmospheric deposition, and tidal effects). The most common types and forms of MPs identified in the literature were polyethylene and polypropylene, fibers, and fragments. The migration of MPs in wetlands is influenced by both non-biological factors (the physicochemical properties of MPs, sediment characteristics, and hydrodynamic conditions) and biological factors (the adsorption and growth interception by plant roots, ingestion, and animal excretion). Furthermore, once MPs enter wetland ecosystems, they can impact the resident microorganisms, animals, and plants. They also have a role in global warming because MPs act as unique exogenous carbon sources, and can also influence GHG emissions in wetland ecosystems by affecting the microbial community structure in wetland sediments and abundance of genes associated with GHG emissions. However, further investigation is needed into the influence of MP type, size, and concentration on the GHG emissions in wetlands and the underlying mechanisms. Overall, the accumulation of MPs in wetland ecosystems can have far-reaching consequences for the local ecosystem, human health, and global climate regulation. Understanding the effects of MPs on wetland ecosystems is essential for developing effective management and mitigation strategies to safeguard these valuable and vulnerable environments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Na-Ying Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mountain Ecological Restoration and Bioresource Utilization & Ecological Restoration and Biodiversity Conservation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu 610041, China; School of Life Sciences, Sichuan University, Chengdu 610065, China
| | - Bo Zhong
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mountain Ecological Restoration and Bioresource Utilization & Ecological Restoration and Biodiversity Conservation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu 610041, China.
| | - Yun Guo
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mountain Ecological Restoration and Bioresource Utilization & Ecological Restoration and Biodiversity Conservation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu 610041, China; School of Life Science and Engineering, Southwest University of Science and Technology, Mianyang 621010, China
| | - Xian-Xiang Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mountain Ecological Restoration and Bioresource Utilization & Ecological Restoration and Biodiversity Conservation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu 610041, China; School of Geography and Tourism, Chongqing Normal University, Chongqing 400047, China
| | - Zao Yang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mountain Ecological Restoration and Bioresource Utilization & Ecological Restoration and Biodiversity Conservation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu 610041, China
| | - Yi-Xin He
- CAS Key Laboratory of Mountain Ecological Restoration and Bioresource Utilization & Ecological Restoration and Biodiversity Conservation Key Laboratory of Sichuan Province, Chengdu Institute of Biology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Chengdu 610041, China.
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9
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Zhang J, Hou X, Zhang K, Deng Y, Xiao Q, Gao Y, Zhou X, Yan B. Deciphering fluorescent and molecular fingerprint of dissolved organic matter leached from microplastics in water. WATER RESEARCH 2024; 250:121047. [PMID: 38154343 DOI: 10.1016/j.watres.2023.121047] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/02/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
Despite extensive research into the presence and behavior of microplastics (MPs) in the environment, limited attention has been given to the investigation of the characteristics of dissolved organic matter (DOM) that leaches from MPs (MPs-DOM). Herein, two frequently encountered plastic particles in aquatic environments, specifically polyethylene terephthalate (PET)- and polyethylene (PE)-MPs, were subjected to leaching in the aquatic settings for seven days, both in the absence of light and under UV irradiation. Measurements of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) indicated that UV exposure enhanced the liberation of DOM from PET-MPs, while PE-MPs did not exhibit such leaching. After UV treatment for seven days, the DOM released from PET-MPs increased by 25 times, while that from PE-MPs remained almost unchanged. Then, the molecular diversity and the evolving formation of DOM originating from different MPs were comprehensively analyzed with fluorescence excitation-emission matrix (EEM) and Fourier transform ion cyclotron resonance mass spectrometry (FT-ICR-MS). Specifically, both PET- and PE-DOM exhibited three fluorescence signatures, with the predominant C1 (tryptophan-like) component showing a decline in PET-DOM and a rise in PE-DOM during aging. The FT-ICR-MS analysis unveiled that PET-DOM grew more recalcitrant under UV exposure, while PE-DOM became increasingly labile. In brief, UV irradiation influences MPs-DOM release and transformation differently, depending on the plastic composition. This highlights the significance of exploring MPs-DOM transformation in securing environmental safety.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jie Zhang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Xianfeng Hou
- National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agro-Environmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-Environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China
| | - Kena Zhang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China
| | - Youwei Deng
- Institute of Environmental Research at the Greater Bay Area, Key Laboratory for Water Quality and Conservation of the Pearl River Delta, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Quanzhi Xiao
- Institute of Environmental Research at the Greater Bay Area, Key Laboratory for Water Quality and Conservation of the Pearl River Delta, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Yan Gao
- Institute of Environmental Research at the Greater Bay Area, Key Laboratory for Water Quality and Conservation of the Pearl River Delta, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
| | - Xiaoxia Zhou
- National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agro-Environmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-Environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China.
| | - Bing Yan
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shandong University, Qingdao 266237, China; Institute of Environmental Research at the Greater Bay Area, Key Laboratory for Water Quality and Conservation of the Pearl River Delta, Ministry of Education, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou 510006, China
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10
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Cui X, Yang T, Li Z, Nowack B. Meta-analysis of the hazards of microplastics in freshwaters using species sensitivity distributions. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 463:132919. [PMID: 37944233 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132919] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/05/2023] [Revised: 10/19/2023] [Accepted: 11/01/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
The environmental hazards of microplastics have raised concerns about their potential ecological risks. However, our understanding of the true risks may be limited because most laboratory studies used pristine microplastics. Here, we analyzed the available literature about ecotoxicological effects of microplastics, including weathered microplastics in particular, on freshwater biota and performed probabilistic species sensitivity distributions. The predicted no-effect concentrations for pristine microplastics were lower than those for weathered microplastics, both in mass concentration (6.1 and 4.8 × 102 μg/L) and number concentration (2.6 × 104 and 2.0 × 106 part/m3). In addition, the toxicological studies on microplastics contains often inconsistent and inconclusive information due to the complexity of the microplastics and the employed exposure conditions. The available data for Daphnia magna and Danio rerio was analyzed in detail to understand the effects of microplastic size, shape and polymer type on their ecotoxicity. Microplastic size was the biggest driving factor, followed by shape and polymer type. There was a tendency for increasing toxicity with smaller size, however, a high variability of effect data was observed for small microplastics. This study provided further insights into the effect thresholds for ecological risk assessment of microplastics and the effects of microplastic characteristics on toxicity.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiaoying Cui
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China; Technology and Society Laboratory, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa), 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Tong Yang
- Technology and Society Laboratory, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa), 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland
| | - Zhengyan Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China; Key Laboratory of Marine Environment and Ecology, Ministry of Education of China, Ocean University of China, Qingdao, China.
| | - Bernd Nowack
- Technology and Society Laboratory, Swiss Federal Laboratories for Materials Science and Technology (Empa), 9014 St. Gallen, Switzerland
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11
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Chai M, Xu G, Yang R, Sun H, Wang Q. Degradation Product-Promoted Depolymerization Strategy for Chemical Recycling of Poly(bisphenol A carbonate). Molecules 2024; 29:640. [PMID: 38338384 PMCID: PMC10856637 DOI: 10.3390/molecules29030640] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/02/2024] [Revised: 01/22/2024] [Accepted: 01/26/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024] Open
Abstract
The accumulation of waste plastics has a severe impact on the environment, and therefore, the development of efficient chemical recycling methods has become an extremely important task. In this regard, a new strategy of degradation product-promoted depolymerization process was proposed. Using N,N'-dimethyl-ethylenediamine (DMEDA) as a depolymerization reagent, an efficient chemical recycling of poly(bisphenol A carbonate) (BPA-PC or PC) material was achieved under mild conditions. The degradation product 1,3-dimethyl-2-imidazolidinone (DMI) was proven to be a critical factor in facilitating the depolymerization process. This strategy does not require catalysts or auxiliary solvents, making it a truly green process. This method improves the recycling efficiency of PC and promotes the development of plastic reutilization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Maoqing Chai
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266042, China;
- Key Laboratory of Biobased Materials, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266101, China;
| | - Guangqiang Xu
- Key Laboratory of Biobased Materials, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266101, China;
- Center of Materials Science and Optoelectronics Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- Shandong Energy Institute, Qingdao 266101, China
- Qingdao New Energy Shandong Laboratory, Qingdao 266101, China
| | - Rulin Yang
- Key Laboratory of Biobased Materials, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266101, China;
- Shandong Energy Institute, Qingdao 266101, China
- Qingdao New Energy Shandong Laboratory, Qingdao 266101, China
| | - Hongguang Sun
- College of Polymer Science and Engineering, Qingdao University of Science and Technology, Qingdao 266042, China;
| | - Qinggang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Biobased Materials, Qingdao Institute of Bioenergy and Bioprocess Technology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Qingdao 266101, China;
- Center of Materials Science and Optoelectronics Engineering, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
- Shandong Energy Institute, Qingdao 266101, China
- Qingdao New Energy Shandong Laboratory, Qingdao 266101, China
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12
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Thanigaivel S, Vinayagam S, Gnanasekaran L, Suresh R, Soto-Moscoso M, Chen WH. Environmental fate of aquatic pollutants and their mitigation by phycoremediation for the clean and sustainable environment: A review. ENVIRONMENTAL RESEARCH 2024; 240:117460. [PMID: 37866533 DOI: 10.1016/j.envres.2023.117460] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/11/2023] [Revised: 09/30/2023] [Accepted: 10/19/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
Emerging pollutants such as natural and manufactured chemicals, insecticides, pesticides, surfactants, and other biological agents such as personal care products, cosmetics, pharmaceuticals, and many industrial discharges hamper the aquatic environment. Nanomaterials and microplastics, among the categories of pollutants, can directly interfere with the marine ecosystem and translate into deleterious effects for humans and animals. They are either uncontrolled or poorly governed. Due to their known or suspected effects on human and environmental health, some chemicals are currently causing concern. The aquatic ecology is at risk from these toxins, which have spread worldwide. This review assesses the prevalence of emerging and hazardous pollutants that have effects on aquatic ecosystems and contaminated water bodies and their toxicity to non-target organisms. Microalgae are found to be a suitable source to remediate the above-mentioned risks. Microalgae based mitigation techniques are currently emerging approaches for all such contaminants, including the other categories that are discussed above. These studies describe the mechanism of phycoremediation, provide outrage factors that may significantly affect the efficiency of contaminants removal, and discuss the future directions and challenges of microalgal mediated remediations.
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Affiliation(s)
- S Thanigaivel
- Department of Biotechnology, Faculty of Science & Humanities, SRM Institute of Science and Technology, Kattankulathur, Chengalpattu District, Tamil Nadu, 603203, India
| | - Saranya Vinayagam
- Department of Biosciences, Saveetha School of Engineering, Saveetha Institute of Medical and Technical Sciences, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 602105, India
| | - Lalitha Gnanasekaran
- Departamento de Ingeniería Mecánica, Facultad de Ingeniería, Universidad de Tarapacá, Avda. General Velásquez 1775, Arica, Chile.
| | - R Suresh
- Department of Chemistry, Karpagam Academy of Higher Education, Coimbatore, 641021, Tamil Nadu, India; Centre for Material Chemistry, Karpagam Academy of Higher Education, Coimbatore, 641021, Tamil Nadu, India
| | | | - Wei-Hsin Chen
- Department of Aeronautics and Astronautics, National Cheng Kung University, Tainan, 701, Taiwan; Research Center for Smart Sustainable Circular Economy, Tunghai University, Taichung, 407, Taiwan; Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Chin-Yi University of Technology, Taichung, 411, Taiwan
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13
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Li T, Cui L, Xu Z, Liu H, Cui X, Fantke P. Micro- and nanoplastics in soil: Linking sources to damage on soil ecosystem services in life cycle assessment. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 904:166925. [PMID: 37689210 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.166925] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/28/2023] [Revised: 08/15/2023] [Accepted: 09/06/2023] [Indexed: 09/11/2023]
Abstract
Soil ecosystems are crucial for providing vital ecosystem services (ES), and are increasingly pressured by the intensification and expansion of human activities, leading to potentially harmful consequences for their related ES provision. Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs), associated with releases from various human activities, have become prevalent in various soil ecosystems and pose a global threat. Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), a tool for evaluating environmental performance of product and technology life cycles, has yet to adequately include MNPs-related damage to soil ES, owing to factors like uncertainties in MNPs environmental fate and ecotoxicological effects, and characterizing related damage on soil species loss, functional diversity, and ES. This study aims to address this gap by providing as a first step an overview of the current understanding of MNPs in soil ecosystems and proposing a conceptual approach to link MNPs impacts to soil ES damage. We find that MNPs pervade soil ecosystems worldwide, introduced through various pathways, including wastewater discharge, urban runoff, atmospheric deposition, and degradation of larger plastic debris. MNPs can inflict a range of ecotoxicity effects on soil species, including physical harm, chemical toxicity, and pollutants bioaccumulation. Methods to translate these impacts into damage on ES are under development and typically focus on discrete, yet not fully integrated aspects along the impact-to-damage pathway. We propose a conceptual framework for linking different MNPs effects on soil organisms to damage on soil species loss, functional diversity loss and loss of ES, and elaborate on each link. Proposed underlying approaches include the Threshold Indicator Taxa Analysis (TITAN) for translating ecotoxicological effects associated with MNPs into quantitative measures of soil species diversity damage; trait-based approaches for linking soil species loss to functional diversity loss; and ecological networks and Bayesian Belief Networks for linking functional diversity loss to soil ES damage. With the proposed conceptual framework, our study constitutes a starting point for including the characterization of MNPs-related damage on soil ES in LCA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tong Li
- Quantitative Sustainability Assessment, Department of Environmental and Resource Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Bygningstorvet 115, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark; School of Environment and Science, Centre for Planetary Health and Food Security, Griffith University, Nathan, Brisbane, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Lizhen Cui
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Zhihong Xu
- School of Environment and Science, Centre for Planetary Health and Food Security, Griffith University, Nathan, Brisbane, QLD 4111, Australia
| | - Hongdou Liu
- School of Environment and Science, Centre for Planetary Health and Food Security, Griffith University, Nathan, Brisbane, QLD 4111, Australia.
| | - Xiaoyong Cui
- College of Life Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Peter Fantke
- Quantitative Sustainability Assessment, Department of Environmental and Resource Engineering, Technical University of Denmark, Bygningstorvet 115, 2800 Kgs. Lyngby, Denmark.
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14
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Huang F, Zhang Q, Wang L, Zhang C, Zhang Y. Are biodegradable mulch films a sustainable solution to microplastic mulch film pollution? A biogeochemical perspective. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 459:132024. [PMID: 37572603 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132024] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/18/2023] [Revised: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 07/07/2023] [Indexed: 08/14/2023]
Abstract
Mulch film residue contributes significantly to global plastic pollution, and consequently biodegradable mulch films (BDMs) are being adopted as a solution. BDMs decompose relatively quickly, but their complete biodegradation requires suitable conditions that are difficult to achieve in nature, causing biodegradable microplastics (bio-MPs) to be more likely to accumulate in soil than traditional microplastics (MPs). If BDMs are to be considered as a sustainable solution, long-term and in-depth studies to investigate the impact of bio-MPs on the biogeochemical processes are vital to agroecosystems operation and ecosystem services supply. Although bio-MP-derived carbon can potentially convert into biomass during decomposition, its contribution to soil carbon stocks is insignificant. Instead, given their biodegradability, bio-MPs can result in greater alterations of soil biodiversity and community composition. Their high carbon-nitrogen ratios may also significantly regulate various processes involved in the natural decomposition and transformation of soil organic matter, including the reduction of nutrient availability and increase in greenhouse gas emissions. Soil ecosystems are complex organic entities interconnected by disturbance-feedback mechanisms. Given the prevailing knowledge gaps regarding the impact of bio-MPs on soil biogeochemical cycles and ecosystem balance, this study emphasized the safety and sustainability assessment of bio-MPs and the prevailing comprehensive challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fuxin Huang
- School of Resources and Environment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Qiyu Zhang
- School of Resources and Environment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Lei Wang
- School of Resources and Environment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Congyu Zhang
- School of Resources and Environment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China
| | - Ying Zhang
- School of Resources and Environment, Northeast Agricultural University, Harbin 150030, PR China.
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15
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Zhong L, Wu T, Sun HJ, Ding J, Pang JW, Zhang L, Ren NQ, Yang SS. Recent advances towards micro(nano)plastics research in wetland ecosystems: A systematic review on sources, removal, and ecological impacts. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2023; 452:131341. [PMID: 37023576 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.131341] [Citation(s) in RCA: 16] [Impact Index Per Article: 16.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/09/2023] [Revised: 03/20/2023] [Accepted: 03/31/2023] [Indexed: 05/03/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, microplastics/nanoplastics (MPs/NPs) have received substantial attention worldwide owing to their wide applications, persistence, and potential risks. Wetland systems are considered to be an important "sink" for MPs/NPs, which can have potential ecological and environmental effects on the ecosystem. This paper provides a comprehensive and systematic review of the sources and characteristics of MPs/NPs in wetland ecosystems, together with a detailed analysis of MP/NP removal and associated mechanisms in wetland systems. In addition, the eco-toxicological effects of MPs/NPs in wetland ecosystems, including plant, animal, and microbial responses, were reviewed with a focus on changes in the microbial community relevant to pollutant removal. The effects of MPs/NPs exposure on conventional pollutant removal by wetland systems and their greenhouse gas emissions are also discussed. Finally, current knowledge gaps and future recommendations are presented, including the ecological impact of exposure to various MPs/NPs on wetland ecosystems and the ecological risks of MPs/NPs associated with the migration of different contaminants and antibiotic resistance genes. This work will facilitate a better understanding of the sources, characteristics, and environmental and ecological impacts of MPs/NPs in wetland ecosystems, and provide a new perspective to promote development in this field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Le Zhong
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Tong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Han-Jun Sun
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Jie Ding
- National Engineering Research Center for Bioenergy, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China.
| | - Ji-Wei Pang
- China Energy Conservation and Environmental Protection Group, CECEP Talroad Technology Co., Ltd., Beijing 100096, China
| | - Luyan Zhang
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Yancheng Institute of Technology, Yancheng 224051, China
| | - Nan-Qi Ren
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China
| | - Shan-Shan Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Urban Water Resource and Environment, School of Environment, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150090, China.
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16
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Zhao X, You F. Cascading Polymer Macro-Debris Upcycling and Microparticle Removal as an Effective Life Cycle Plastic Pollution Mitigation Strategy. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2023; 57:6506-6519. [PMID: 37058399 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.2c08686] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 06/19/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution caused by material losses and their subsequent chemical emissions is pervasive in the natural environment and varies with age. Cascading the life cycles of plastic losses with solid waste reclamation via re-manufacturing virgin polymers or producing fuels and energy may extend resource availability while minimizing waste generation and environmental exposure. Here, we systematically investigate this cascaded plastic waste processing over other waste end-of-life management pathways by analyzing the environmental consequences of plastic losses across the entire life cycle. Plastic losses can form volatile organic chemicals via photo-degradation and pose non-negligible global warming, ecotoxicity, and air pollution effects that worsen by at least 189% in the long run. These environmental burdens increase by above 9.96% under high ultraviolet radiation levels and participation rates, which facilitate plastic particulate compartment transport and degradation. Cascaded plastic waste processing aided by fast pyrolysis upcycling technologies can effectively cut environmental losses and outperform landfills and incineration in reducing 23.35% ozone formation and 19.91% air pollution by offsetting the external monomer manufacturing and fuels and energy production while saving at least 25.75% fossil fuels.
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Affiliation(s)
- Xiang Zhao
- Systems Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
| | - Fengqi You
- Systems Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
- Robert Frederick Smith School of Chemical and Biomolecular Engineering, Cornell University, Ithaca, New York 14853, United States
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17
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Rai PK, Sonne C, Song H, Kim KH. Plastic wastes in the time of COVID-19: Their environmental hazards and implications for sustainable energy resilience and circular bio-economies. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2023; 858:159880. [PMID: 36328266 PMCID: PMC9618453 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2022.159880] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/02/2022] [Revised: 10/28/2022] [Accepted: 10/28/2022] [Indexed: 06/06/2023]
Abstract
The global scope of pollution from plastic waste is a well-known phenomenon associated with trade, mass consumption, and disposal of plastic products (e.g., personal protective equipment (PPE), viral test kits, and vacuum-packaged food). Recently, the scale of the problem has been exacerbated by increases in indoor livelihood activities during lockdowns imposed in response to the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic. The present study describes the effects of increased plastic waste on environmental footprint and human health. Further, the technological/regulatory options and life cycle assessment (LCA) approach for sustainable plastic waste management are critically dealt in terms of their implications on energy resilience and circular economy. The abrupt increase in health-care waste during pandemic has been worsening environmental quality to undermine the sustainability in general. In addition, weathered plastic particles from PPE along with microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) can all adsorb chemical and microbial contaminants to pose a risk to ecosystems, biota, occupational safety, and human health. PPE-derived plastic pollution during the pandemic also jeopardizes sustainable development goals, energy resilience, and climate control measures. However, it is revealed that the pandemic can be regarded as an opportunity for explicit LCA to better address the problems associated with environmental footprints of plastic waste and to focus on sustainable management technologies such as circular bio-economies, biorefineries, and thermal gasification. Future researches in the energy-efficient clean technologies and circular bio-economies (or biorefineries) in concert with a "nexus" framework are expected to help reduce plastic waste into desirable directions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Prabhat Kumar Rai
- Phyto-Technologies and Plant Invasion Lab, Department of Environmental Science, School of Earth Sciences and Natural Resources Management, Mizoram University, Aizawl, Mizoram, India
| | - C Sonne
- Department of Ecoscience, Arctic Research Centre, Aarhus University, Frederiksborgvej 399, DK-4000 Roskilde, Denmark
| | - H Song
- Department of Earth Resources and Environmental Engineering, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-Ro, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea
| | - Ki-Hyun Kim
- Department of Civil & Environmental Engineering, Hanyang University, 222 Wangsimni-Ro, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea.
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