Unravelling Microplastic Pollution in India: Sources, Distribution, and Sustainable Solutions

Abstract

Microplastics (MPs), which refers to plastic particles < 5 mm in size, have become important environmental pollutants worldwide because of their long-lasting and mobile characteristics and chemical toxicity. India has experienced significant microplastic contamination in its freshwater-, marine- terrestrial and atmospheric environments following rapid economic growth, increased plastic consumption and inefficient waste management systems. Here, we synthesize what is known, till now on microplastic sources and pollution in India besides ecotoxicological consequences with particular attention to the South Asian region, also touching upon policy-induced gaps. Some of the major natural modes of pollutant paths comprise municipal domestic waste, industrial effluents, road runoff, synthetic chemicals used in agriculture and still being released into the environment through agricultural plastics post-bin life and also atmospheric deposition. Ecologically, these range from compromised feeding and reproduction in aquatic organisms to bioaccumulation in seafood species of economic importance. Exposure to humans occurs as a result of the intake of seafood, drinking water, and airborne inhalation. The risks associated with this exposure include endocrine regulation, oxidative stress, and the transfer of pathogens. As a result of a lack of uniform monitoring, thresholds that are particular to microplastics, and the severe implementation of Extended Producer Responsibility, the regulatory frameworks that are now in place under the Plastic Waste Management Rules (2016) are inadequate. Few, if any, reviews provide a comprehensive analysis of technology-based interventions (e.g., advanced membrane bioreactors and automated sorting systems), policy actions (e.g. bans on primary microplastics and deposit-refund schemes) and community engagement strategies (i.e. citizen science programs, fisher-led cleanups). Ecosystem and human health necessitate comprehensive, multi-sectoral strategies to minimize microplastic pollution in India.