Abstract
The presence of plastics and microplastics in freshwater ecosystems and biota has been reported in different parts of the world – even in most remote areas. Yet, scientific information on the extent of freshwater microplastic pollution is limited. Comprehensive assessments on plastics and microplastics in freshwater environments at global, regional, and basin scales are lacking. Human health and ecological effects of freshwater microplastic pollution remain unknown. Freshwater microplastic pollution is a new research area recently attracting attention from the academic community. Further research is needed to improve scientific knowledge on microplastic pollution in the world’s freshwater resources and to develop evidence-based appropriate policies and solutions to reduce microplastics in freshwater environments. The role of international scientific programmes such as the International Initiative on Water Quality of UNESCO’s Intergovernmental Hydrological Programme (IHP) will be crucial for research promotion and knowledge generation to fill the knowledge gaps on freshwater microplastic pollution and its human health and ecological impacts.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
