Microplastics as a risk and resource

Plastics are essential materials in everyday modern life, but their durability and versatility lead to considerable stress for both the ecology and human health. Through physical, chemical and biological processes, they break down into micro- and nanoparticles that can be detected in soils, waters and the atmosphere. At the same time, there is increasing evidence of toxicological effects such as inflammatory reactions, oxidative stress and endocrine disruptions, while the long-term health consequences remain largely unclear. Against this background, strategies to reduce plastic input, develop standardised detection methods and promote sustainable recycling and upcycling technologies are of essential importance. The study "From Harm to Hope: Tackling Microplastics' Perils with Recycling Innovation" conducted by Italian scientists provides an overview of the formation, detection and health relevance of microplastics as well as current approaches to the circular economy. The study was published in the journal "Molecules".