Microplastic Pollution in Bangladesh: A Review of Ecological and Biochemical Impacts
Ummay Jannat Sumaya
Department of Biochemistry and Cell Biology, Bangladesh University of Health Sciences, Bangladesh
DOI: https://doi.org/10.59429/ersr.v3i2.12216
Keywords: Microplastics, Plastic pollution, Bangladesh, Ecological impact, Biochemical toxicity, Waste management, Food chain contamination
Abstract
Microplastic pollution has emerged as a significant environmental and public health challenge globally, with Bangladesh being disproportionately affected due to rapid urbanization, industrial growth, high plastic consumption, and inadequate waste management. Microplastics, defined as plastic particles smaller than 5 mm, originate from primary sources such as microbeads and from the degradation of larger plastic debris. This review critically examines the sources, ecological impacts, biochemical effects, and mitigation strategies related to microplastic pollution in Bangladesh. Major sources include mismanaged plastic waste, single-use plastics, textile and garment industry effluents, agricultural practices, industrial discharges, and pandemic-related personal protective equipment. Microplastics are pervasive in rivers, sediments, coastal zones, soils, and the food chain, leading to habitat degradation, reduced biodiversity, soil and crop productivity loss, and bioaccumulation in aquatic organisms and livestock. Biochemically, microplastics act as vectors for toxic chemicals, heavy metals, and persistent organic pollutants, causing oxidative stress, endocrine disruption, genotoxicity, immunotoxicity, and transgenerational effects in exposed organisms. Effective mitigation requires integrated strategies, including improved waste management, stricter policy enforcement, promotion of biodegradable alternatives, industrial compliance, public awareness campaigns, and targeted research. This review highlights the urgent need for coordinated efforts from government, industry, academia, and society to mitigate microplastic pollution, safeguard ecosystems, protect public health, and ensure sustainable development in Bangladesh.
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