Microplastics and inorganic contaminants

Microplastics (MPs) are abundant in the environment due to extensive use and inappropriate disposal. Their small size and persistence contribute to their widespread presence in various environments. Despite their occurrences, the complicated mechanisms governing these contaminants' interactions and the associated risks to living beings remain poorly understood. The unique physicochemical properties of MPs make them effective adsorbents for pollutants from the environment, possibly affecting their destiny and toxicity. MPs act as vectors for many environmental contaminants, including heavy metals and radionuclides may influence their mobility, fate, and accessibility in the environment. Progress in detecting and measuring MPs and inorganic contaminants advances, hindered by methodological standardization gaps. The goal of investigating these interactions is to develop a holistic viewpoint that helps to a better understanding of the indirect ecological dangers posed by MPs as carriers of pollutants and their possible hazardous effects.