Microplastic pollution in the German aquatic environment: Existence, interactions and research needs

Plastics, once celebrated for their versatility, have now become a significant environmental threat due to their persistence, with microplastics (MPs) posing serious concerns. This study examines the prevalence of MPs across various environmental domains, focusing on their impact on ecosystems and human health, along with analytical procedures and treatment techniques. It has been found that Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) is the most common analytical procedure for MPs detection. Few policies/steps have been formulated by international organizations/governments to impede the proliferation of MPs, which have been duly included herein. Germany, as Europe's largest economy and a major contributor to plastic pollution, surprisingly has a dearth of research in this area. So, this study focuses on MP pollution in the German aquatic environment and highlights alarming concentrations of MPs, with up to 11,050 particles/L in rivers and 9,000 particles/m³ in wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). Fibers dominate in shape, and polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polystyrene (PS) are the most common polymers, primarily originating from municipal/industrial wastewater. Based on these findings and identified gaps, the paper provides recommendations for future research and areas of improvement, such as standardized measurement units, more studies, and combined effects of MPs with other emerging contaminants.