Microplastics in Asian Rivers: geographical distribution, most detected types, and inconsistency in methodologies
This study undertakes a systematic review of 228 scholarly articles to map microplastic hotspots in Asian freshwater systems and synthesize current research trends within the continent. Findings reveal a concentration of research in China and Japan, primarily investigating riverine and surface waters through net-based sampling methods. Polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), and polyethylene terephthalate (PET) emerge as the predominant microplastic types, frequently observed as fibers or fragments. However, the diversity of sampling methodologies and reporting metrics complicates data synthesis, underscoring the need for standardized analytical frameworks to facilitate comparative analysis. This paper delineates the distribution of microplastic hotspots and outlines the prevailing challenges and prospects in microplastic research within Asian freshwater contexts.PMID:38621450 | DOI:10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123985
Source: Environmental Pollution - Category: Environmental Health Authors: Hsin-Tien Lin Falk Schneider Muhamad Afiq Aziz Keng Yinn Wong Kantha D Arunachalam Sarva Mangala Praveena Sumathi Sethupathi Woon Chan Chong Ayu Lana Nafisyah Purushothaman Parthasarathy Shreeshivadasan Chelliapan Alexander Kunz Source Type: research