Microplastics, tiny particles less than 5 millimeters in size, have emerged as a global environmental concern due to their pervasive presence in ecosystems and potential impact on both the environment and human health. These microscopic fragments result from the breakdown of larger plastic items, such as bottles and bags, as well as from the shedding of microbeads in personal care products. The alarming ubiquity of microplastics, found in oceans, rivers, soil, and even the air, has spurred extensive research to understand their implications and develop strategies for mitigation.

Microplastics pose a threat to ecosystems as they infiltrate diverse environments. In aquatic ecosystems, they can be ingested by marine life, from plankton to fish, entering the food chain. The impact on terrestrial ecosystems is equally concerning, with microplastics present in agricultural soils and affecting plant growth. Furthermore, studies have detected microplastics in the air, raising questions about their potential inhalation and subsequent health effects on humans.