Microplastics in the Freshwater Environment

Aim: To provide an overview of micro- and nano-sized plastic pollution of inland waters, including associated risks and hazards. Main concepts covered: Origin and distribution of micro- and nanoplastics in the freshwater environment, and potential biological impacts. Main methods covered: Protocols for monitoring of plastics in the natural environment, and examples of studies detailing plastic ingestion and impact. Conclusions: Freshwater systems are important sinks for plastics, with fragmentation and ingestion by freshwater organism, leading to trophic transfer of micro- and nanoplastics throughout the food web.