Handbook of Microplastic Pollution in the Environment

In this timely handbook, one of a series of three, leading contributors from around the world offer practical insights into the challenges and opportunities for using various technologies to tackle microplastic pollution and improve microplastic management in aquatic environments. Through this book, readers will gain a deep understanding of microplastic pollution in both freshwater and marine environments and strategies and technologies to combat and manage this. To provide readers with this knowledge, the book is divided into four sections to explain microplastics in freshwater and marine environments and the impact of biofilm on microplastic pollution. The contributors first describe the characteristics of microplastics and their identification, roles in the pollution of aquatic environments, and impacts. They also describe microplastics in freshwater and marine environments through the use of case studies from both developing and developed countries from North America, Europe, Africa, and Asia. An introduction is provided at the beginning of each chapter for those interested in a brief synopsis, and copious references are provided for those wishing to study each chapter topic in greater detail. This book furnishes readers with the knowledge to reduce microplastics and prevent their improper disposal, which will prevent its intrusion and impact on biodiversity and ecosystems around the world and will also minimize economic losses caused by this emerging pollutant. For a wider perspective, readers are encouraged to refer to the other two titles in this series, subtitled Microplastic Pollution in the Soil and Monitoring and Treatment of Microplastics and Policy Perspectives. In its exploration of the relationships among the characteristics of microplastics, their mobility, transport pathways, and treatment, this handbook represents a vital practical guide for academics, industry-based researchers, and policymakers that paves the ways for a new direction of water technology for future wastewater treatment.