Microplastic contamination refers to the presence and distribution of synthetic polymer particles typically <5 mm in environmental matrices, including marine, freshwater, terrestrial, atmospheric, and biological systems. As a research topic, it encompasses sources (primary and secondary microplastics), transport pathways (e.g., hydrodynamic and atmospheric dispersion), physicochemical properties (size, shape, polymer type, surface chemistry), and interactions with co-contaminants such as persistent organic pollutants and metals. Studies investigate bioavailability, trophic transfer, organismal and cellular responses, and potential human exposure via inhalation and ingestion, as well as methodological challenges in sampling, analytical detection, quantification, and risk assessment frameworks.
A new study reveals an alarming number of mechanisms throughout the life-cycle of plastic that could enhance or spread antimicrobial resistance.
Environment
Jul 22, 2025
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26
Hong Kong Polytechnic University scientists report that multigenerational exposure to microplastic-contaminated prey reverses natural food preferences in nematodes, revealing a learned attraction to contaminated prey.
Have you felt disgust when taking a walk along the riverside or plunging into the sea to escape the summer heat, only to spy a used wet wipe floating along the surface? Or shock at finding out that animals have died choking ...
Environment
Jul 19, 2025
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145
How much microplastic truly ends up in the seafood on our plates? The answer varies significantly because there are no standardized analytical procedures in food monitoring to quantify the amount of tiny plastic particles ...
Agriculture
Jul 18, 2025
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35
Bubbles burst when their caps rupture. Children discover this phenomenon every summer day, but it also underpins key mechanisms for the spread of pollutants, contaminants, and even infectious disease through the generation ...
Soft Matter
Jul 15, 2025
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46
New research reveals the impact of discarded plastic materials on young birds—with chicks dying after becoming entangled in synthetic fibers used to build their nests.
Plants & Animals
Jul 14, 2025
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59
A leading expert in the health impacts of plastic pollution and microplastics is calling on the UN to end the use of toxic chemicals in all plastics, cap and reduce plastic production and argues against a treaty focused on ...
Earth Sciences
Jul 10, 2025
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38
Negotiations toward a global, legally binding plastics treaty are set to resume this summer, with the United Nations Environment Program announcing that the Intergovernmental Negotiating Committee on plastic pollution will ...
Environment
Jul 9, 2025
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30
A combination of sewage overflows and coastal winds could be sending billions of airborne microplastic particles into the world's coastal towns and cities, a new study published in the journal Scientific Reports suggests.
Earth Sciences
Jul 9, 2025
1
24
A chemical commonly found in sunscreen could be making plastic in oceans even harder to break down, according to University of Stirling research.
Environment
Jul 8, 2025
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70
