Consequences of Microplastics on Global Ecosystem Structure and Function

Wang, Yaqi; Bai, Junhong; Liu, Zhe; Zhang, Ling; Zhang, Guangliang; Chen, Guozhu; Xia, Jiangbao; Cui, Baoshan; Rillig, Matthias C.

doi:10.1007/s44169-023-00047-9

Cited by 2 publications

(1 citation statement)

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“…The effects of microplastics on ecological processes are usually overlooked in risk assessments from the viewpoint of ecotoxicology. As an emerging global change factor, microplastics can alter the physicochemical properties of environmental media, intervene with the biogeochemical cycling of elements, and affect crop growth and food security and safety in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. ,,− Therefore, ecological consequences need to also be considered more fully to obtain a comprehensive assessment of microplastic risk. For example, the impact of microplastics on (micro)biodiversity, ecosystem organic carbon sequestration, water quality, greenhouse gas emissions, and crop yields may be incorporated as ecotoxicological end points.…”

Section: Using a Holistic Perspective To Support A Rational Risk Asse...mentioning

confidence: 99%

The “Microplastome” – A Holistic Perspective to Capture the Real-World Ecology of Microplastics

Li,

Bank

et al. 2024

Environ. Sci. Technol.

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Microplastic pollution, an emerging pollution issue, has become a significant environmental concern globally due to its ubiquitous, persistent, complex, toxic, and ever-increasing nature. As a multifaceted and diverse suite of small plastic particles with different physicochemical properties and associated matters such as absorbed chemicals and microbes, future research on microplastics will need to comprehensively consider their multidimensional attributes. Here, we introduce a novel, conceptual framework of the "microplastome", defined as the entirety of various plastic particles (<5 mm), and their associated matters such as chemicals and microbes, found within a sample and its overall environmental and toxicological impacts. As a novel concept, this paper aims to emphasize and call for a collective quantification and characterization of microplastics and for a more holistic understanding regarding the differences, connections, and effects of microplastics in different biotic and abiotic ecosystem compartments. Deriving from this lens, we present our insights and prospective trajectories for characterization, risk assessment, and source apportionment of microplastics. We hope this new paradigm can guide and propel microplastic research toward a more holistic era and contribute to an informed strategy for combating this globally important environmental pollution issue.

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