Microplastic Pollution in Urban Water Bodies: Sources, Impacts, and Remediation Approaches

Abstract

Micro plastic pollution has emerged as a critical environmental issue, particularly in urban water bodies where population density, industrialization, and inadequate waste management contribute significantly to micro plastic accumulation. This study provides a comprehensive overview of the primary sources of micro plastics in urban aquatic systems, including domestic wastewater, storm water runoff, industrial effluents, and tire wear particles. It further examines the ecological and human health impacts of micro plastics, such as bioaccumulation, toxic chemical transport, and disruption of aquatic food webs. Finally, the paper explores current and emerging remediation approaches, including physical filtration, biodegradation, advanced oxidation processes, and policy-driven source control strategies. Emphasizing the interdisciplinary nature of this challenge, the study highlights the need for integrated management frameworks and stricter regulatory policies to mitigate micro plastic contamination in urban environments.