Trophic exposure pathways of microplastics in South Asia ecosystems

Microplastic (MP) pollution has become a widespread environmental issue, significantly impacting the trophic levels of aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. This review article comprehensively examines trophic exposure pathways of MPs’ in developing nation in both aquatic and land environments. In developing countries like India, Bangladesh, Nepal, Pakistan, Cambodia, China, microplastic pollution management is a significant concern and these countries are struggling with the challenge of managing plastic waste generated from various urban, farming and manufacturing-related activities. Microplastics can interact with both living and non-living elements of soil and water environments, disrupting nutritional dynamics and ecosystem functions. The amount of microplastics in soil and aquatic environments has increased over time due to the breakdown of plastic waste in bodies of water, coastal areas, cities, and rural regions. Safe and sustainable plastics design should be used to reduce MPs’ detrimental effects on the trophic level organisms and also human health. This study emphasizes the need for interdisciplinary research and successful policy initiatives in order to improve understanding of MP behaviour in both aquatic and terrestrials’ habitats and provide methods for reducing their negative consequences. Future research should also evaluate the various relations of MPs with water and soil quality and their ecotoxicological effects on different trophic levels organisms within the framework of worldwide environmental alterations.