Transfer of Microplastics from River Systems to Underground Water Resources: Mechanisms, Impacts, and Research Needs
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Abstract
This study investigated the ways that microplastics move from rivers to groundwater. Microplastics occur when large pieces of plastics break down. We have a number of daily uses for products made with microplastics. Microplastics last forever and travel through water, soil and rock to find their way into groundwater. There are several ways in which microplastics get into the groundwater. Microplastics can pass through small pores in the space between rocks and dirt. When the river banks become saturated with water and start to leak out they carry microplastics with them. Also, when underground water levels rise due to natural means, microplastics will be carried along too. Movement of microplastics is dependent upon the characteristics of the microplastic itself, the type of dirt/soil, how much water flows over the surface and other factors related to the environment around it. A major concern in studying this topic is to determine where microplastics are in groundwater, because if we don't know where they exist we cannot protect against them contaminating our aquifers. In addition to identifying areas of contamination, there are many challenges associated with collecting and analyzing sample data. Microplastics have negative impacts on both the ecosystems and human health and are now found in the world's groundwater. This review article identifies gaps in the scientific knowledge of how microplastics travel through groundwater and what happens to them once they are in the environment. It also emphasizes the need for researchers to collaborate together to develop standard practices (e.g. use of standardized sampling techniques, testing, and reporting) so that researchers can understand all aspects of microplastic pollution (sources, pathways, effects) and develop effective strategies to protect our water supply. As such, addressing microplastic pollution will help protect groundwater quality and preserve aquifer function as an essential provider of ecosystem functions and safe drinking water.
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