Sectoral Sources, Industrial Use and Environmental Management of Microplastics: A Holistic Assessment

The aim of this study is to investigate the dual role of microplastics (MPs) as both widespread environmental contaminants and deliberately used functional materials across industrial sectors. It provides an integrated assessment of the sources, pathways, and applications of MPs, with a focus on their sector-specific dynamics. Microplastics, defined as synthetic polymer particles smaller than 5 mm, are emitted unintentionally through processes in industries such as cosmetics, textiles, food packaging, agriculture, and construction, often entering aquatic, terrestrial, and atmospheric ecosystems. Simultaneously, they are intentionally employed in various industrial applications including textiles, building materials, membrane and filtration technologies, medical systems, and energy production. This study critically evaluates both aspects by reviewing current literature and sectoral practices, emphasizing the advantages MPs provide—such as durability, lightweight structure, and chemical resistance—while also highlighting their persistent environmental footprint and risks to human health. These risks are amplified by their role as vectors for toxic pollutants, their bio-accumulative nature, and their long degradation times. The paper concludes that managing microplastic pollution demands a life cycle-oriented approach that spans from production to end-of-life, supported by innovation in biodegradable alternatives, stronger regulatory frameworks, and interdisciplinary environmental health research. Ultimately, the study contributes to the understanding of how industrial innovation can be aligned with sustainability and global environmental responsibility.