Micro/nanoplastics in aquatic ecosystems: Analytical challenges, ecological impacts, and mitigation strategies

Micro/nanoplastics (MNPs) have emerged as a pervasive environmental threat to aquatic ecosystems, with documented impacts spanning molecular to ecosystem levels. This review critically evaluates three key areas: (1) advanced analytical techniques for MNPs detection in water and biota, (2) mechanistic insights into MNPs toxicity across trophic levels, and (3) innovative remediation approaches. We highlight the limitations of current quantification techniques (e.g., Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy and Raman microscopy), particularly their challenges in addressing nanoplastics (NPs) detection. The need for standardized protocols is emphasized as a priority research gap. Ecotoxicological studies reveal multiple impacts of MNPs exposure. Specifically, MNPs induce oxidative stress and endocrine disruption in aquatic organisms. Additionally, they facilitate trophic transfer through food webs, with toxicity modulated by particle size and polymer type. Emerging solutions show promise but require further validation. Bioengineered degradation enzymes offer targeted breakdown potential, while catchment-scale filtration systems demonstrate large-scale capture efficiency. However, scalability and cost-effectiveness remain critical challenges. By integrating interdisciplinary advances, this work provides a roadmap for policymakers and researchers to mitigate MNPs pollution in alignment with UN Sustainable Development Goals. • Different characterization methods of MNPs were compared. • The need for a standardized protocol for MNPs characterization was emphasized. • MNPs cause multi-node disturbance to aquatic ecosystems. • MNPs and other environmental pollutants have adverse synergistic effects. • Feasible mitigation strategies for MNPs contamination were proposed.