Plastic Waste Generation Research Articles

Compressive Behavior and Durability Performance of High-Volume Fly-Ash Concrete with Plastic Waste and Graphene Nanoplatelets by Using Response-Surface Methodology

Plastic waste (PW) generation continuously increases every year due to the growing population and demand for plastic materials. This situation poses a challenge to many countries, including developed ones, on how to dispose of PW. Accordingly, PW was utilized in this study to replace coarse aggregates partially in high-volume fly-ash (HVFA) concrete. However, PW decreased the strength and durability of concrete. To address this issue, graphene nanoplatelets (GNPs) were added to mitigate the negative consequences of PW and HVFA on concrete’s properties. The objective of this study is to investigate the influences of PW and GNP contents on the durability and deformation of HVFA concrete. Response-surface methodology (RSM) was used to design and optimize a series of cement mixes to achieve the most desirable properties. Independent variables included PW content as partial replacement for coarse aggregates (0%, 15%, 30%, 45%, and 60% by volume), fly ash as partial substitute for cement (0%, 20%, 40%, 60%, and 80% by volume), and GNPs as additives (0%, 0.075%, 0.15%, 0.225%, and 0.3%). The considered responses were concrete unit weight, modulus of elasticity (MoE), and Cantabro abrasion loss at 300 revolutions. Results showed that PW and HVFA decreased concrete unit weight and MoE but increased Cantabro abrasion loss. By contrast, GNPs increased concrete unit weight and MoE but decreased Cantabro abrasion loss. PW and HVFA also increased the compressive toughness and porosity of concrete, while GNPs increased its stiffness but decreased its compressive toughness and porosity. The mathematical models developed to predict the unit weight, MoE, and abrasion resistance of concrete were significant, with errors of less than 6%. An optimized mix was achieved by partially replacing 12.44% of coarse aggregates with PW and 24.57% of cement with fly ash and adding 0.279% GNPs with a desirability of 100%.

Soil-biodegradable mulch is an alternative to non-biodegradable plastic mulches in a strawberry-lettuce double-cropping system

Double-cropping strawberry (Fragaria × ananassa Duch.) and lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) could be a sustainable alternative practice for diversified specialty crop growers. Plastic mulch is beneficial for strawberry and lettuce production with soil-biodegradable mulch (BDM) providing opportunities to reduce plastic waste generation and costs of mulch disposal. The objective of this study was to compare non-biodegradable plastic mulches and BDM to bare ground cultivation in a strawberry–lettuce double-cropping system in a Mediterranean climate. A split-plot randomized complete block design experiment with mulch treatment [non-biodegradable polyethylene (PE) film, “weedmat” (woven, PE-based), BDM, and bare ground control] as the main factor and double-cropping rotation scheme (rotation 1 or 2) as the split-plot factor was conducted between 2020 and 2021. Strawberry yield was overall greatest when mulched with BDM, PE, and weedmat compared to the bare ground control. Total soluble solids (TSS), pH, and total titratable acidity (TA) of strawberry differed due to harvest date, but only pH differed due to mulch treatment. For lettuce canopy cover, rotation 2 had greater canopy cover (86%) compared with rotation 1 (66%) 30 days after transplanting. Average head weight (0.4 kg) and head length and diameter (both 20 cm) did not differ due to mulch or rotation. Average soil temperatures under PE and BDM were ~1.5°C higher than under weedmat and 2.5°C higher than the bare ground control. Soil under weedmat had the highest moisture content, whereas the PE, BDM, and bare ground treatments had similar levels. PE, BDM, and weedmat provided equivalent weed suppression, whereas the bare ground control had the most weeds. BDM deterioration estimated as percent soil exposure (PSE) was greatest (59% PSE) by the end of the experiment, whereas PE had 18% PSE and weedmat had no deterioration. Results show that despite high levels of deterioration, BDM performs similarly to PE in terms of soil temperature and moisture modification, weed suppression, and promotion of crop growth and yield in a double-cropped system. Double-cropping strawberry and lettuce is a promising alternative for growers to diversify their crop type and with potential economic benefits by increasing mulch lifespan.

What activities reduce plastic waste the most? – The path to a circular economy for Japan’s manufacturing industry

In recent years, plastic waste has received increasing attention, though most studies on it have investigated only household plastic waste. In Japan, the amount of household plastic waste is approximately equal to that generated by the manufacturing process in Japan. Therefore, we focus on the change in plastic waste emissions from manufacturing from 2004 to 2018. Following the novel method of Levinson (2015), we decompose plastic waste emissions into scale effects, composition effects, and (in)direct technique effects. This first application of this method for waste generation shows that the technique effect contributes the most to reducing pollution emissions, whereas the composition effect has a very limited impact. These results contrast with those of previous studies (Brunel (2017) and Cole and Zhang (2019)) on CO2 emissions and provide new insights into the characteristics of plastic waste generation. The reason for the increase in technique effect despite the absence of strict emission control regulations targeting industrial waste is that Japanese environmental policies are often promoted in a manner that involves all stakeholders, creating conditions for successful voluntary agreements through mutual monitoring.

Preparation and Performance Evaluation of X-ray-Shielding Barium Sulfate Film for Medical Diagnosis Using PET Recycling and Multi-Carrier Principles

The use of disposable containers and packaging materials has increased due to the recent COVID-19 pandemic. Thus, the generation of plastic waste is also increasing, and research on recycling such waste is being actively conducted. In this study, an X-ray-shielding film for medical diagnosis was manufactured by mixing a radiation-shielding material and a plastic waste-based polymer material and its effectiveness was evaluated. The film, which is intended as a fabric for a shielding garment, consists of barium sulfate (BaSO4) shielding nanoparticles embedded in a matrix of polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a commonly available waste plastic material. A particle-dispersing technology, which can improve the ratio between the shielding and matrix materials while maintaining the tensile strength of the film, was studied. Therefore, to increase the content of the barium sulfate (BaSO4) nanoparticles used as the shielding material, this multi-carrier method—under which the particles are dispersed in units of time—was developed to improve the shielding performance. Compared with the effectiveness of lead (Pb) shielding film, the 3 mm barium sulfate film developed in this study satisfies the lead equivalent of 0.150 mmPb when stacked in two layers. Therefore, a shielding film was successfully manufactured by using plastic waste as a polymer resin and barium sulfate, an eco-friendly radiation-shielding material, instead of lead.

Exploring the management policy of marine microplastic litter in China: Overview, challenges and prospects

Marine microplastic pollution has been a serious problem in recent years, threatening people's health. The Chinese government has promulgated a series of policies to manage marine microplastics. Analysis of marine microplastic litter management policies is necessary to improve the management of marine microplastics and coordinate the reduction of plastic waste generation. Based on 171 policy documents, this paper uses literature and content analysis methods to analyze the policies since 2016 using ROSTCM6 software. These policies start with curbing the sources and monitoring the presence of marine microplastic litter. The study found that policy management shows the characteristics of insisting on land and sea integration, strengthening plastic waste recycling, strengthening scientific and technological support, and coordinating ex-ante monitoring and ex-post assessment. Although the Chinese government has made progress in marine microplastic litter management policies. However, further development is still needed in terms of the management system, multi-subject collaboration, division of responsibilities among management departments, and public awareness. Finally, this paper emphasizes the need to improve the management policy, focus on technology, encourage the participation of multiple subjects, strengthen education, and establish an integrated management mechanism for land and sea.

Plastics Flow Analysis for Korea, 2017-2019

As one of the world''s top producers and top consumers of plastics, Korea has been experiencing problems with regard to the management of waste plastics since 2018, such as collection service disruptions, illegal abandonment and exports of waste, and marine pollution. To gain a complete understanding of Korea''s contemporary management of plastics, this study quantified national plastic flows across production, use, and end-of-life management between 2017 and 2019. In 2017, Korea produced 17.5 million metric tons of plastic resins, more than half of which was exported, and consumed 7 million metric tons of plastic products including 3.2 million metric tons of packaging. On a per-capita basis, Korea''s plastic consumption and waste generation were higher than that of other major economies, such as Japan, China, the United States, and Europe, which implies considerable potential for plastic consumption reduction. Despite the high level of waste generation, Korea has increased the level of material recycling while minimizing the landfill rate by implementing various policies, such as waste levies, voluntary agreements, and extended producer responsibility. For more sustainable plastic management, Korea must make additional efforts to reduce plastic consumption and promote high-quality recycling, for example through circular design, business models with less packaging, and advanced technologies.

Developing a method for estimation of plastic waste leaked into the ocean

The Vietnamese Government has committed to fighting against plastic waste and reducing 75% of marine plastic debris by 2030. However, the information on the actual amount of plastic waste released into the sea in Vietnam is still uncertain. Estimates of plastic waste leaks into the ocean become essential for assessing baseline data and monitoring marine plastic litter reduction. The lack of standardised methods reliably be applied worldwide due to local conditions of the waste management system is a constraint for plastic waste management. The study developed a method for simulating plastic waste flow in solid waste management system based on material flow approach, which can estimate the amount of plastic waste mismanaged and leaked into the ocean. The estimation model was applied to Quang Ninh, a famous tourist province in Vietnam. The mismanaged plastic waste accounts for 25% of total plastic waste generation and approximately 4.5% of generated plastic waste leaking into the ocean. The results of the study also indicated the source of plastic waste leakage and possible interventions for solving the problem.

Quantifying and managing plastic waste generated from building construction in Auckland, New Zealand.

Each year, construction and demolition (C&D) waste contributes at least 25,000 tonnes to the total amount of plastic landfilled in Auckland, New Zealand. The growing use of plastic in the packaging of building materials, use of polystyrene and products, such as building wrap, are contributing to this. Unlike countries such as the UK, most construction waste in New Zealand is not sorted on-site, and C&D waste is often co-mingled; therefore, minimal analysis on the recoverability of plastics has been attempted. This study identified and quantified the plastic waste stream produced from four construction sites, generated from various stages of construction in Auckland, New Zealand. Plastic waste was taken over three construction stages including demolition, exterior and weatherproofing and services and cladding, amounting to 112 kg (or 11.2 m3). The main types of plastic analysed were polyethylene, contributing 77% (by mass), and polyvinyl chloride, representing 31% (by mass). The main reason for the generation of plastic waste across the four sites was highly variable and dependent on construction stage. However, it was apparent that plastic packaging of materials was not the single area of concern, and plastic building componentry and protection materials should also be investigated for their contribution. This study supports the requirement for improved understanding and awareness around the composition and fate of plastic C&D waste. Long-term benefits to the construction industry are from raising awareness of the potential to make profits from valuable waste products and to improve environmental performance and reputation, for a competitive advantage in New Zealand.

Municipal infectious waste during COVID-19 pandemic: trends, impacts, and management

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) shifts the characteristics of municipal waste. This paper aims to provide an overview of trends, impacts, and management during the COVID-19 pandemic globally. The increase in the generation of plastic waste and infectious waste is a new challenge during the COVID-19 pandemic. It was found that the emergence of plastic waste due to the consumption of food delivery becomes an issue in several countries. Despite the increment of plastic waste generation, the mass layoffs contributed to the decrease in the total urban waste generation in general. In addition to plastic waste, a surge of infectious waste from health facilities and household waste originating from residents infected with the SARS-COV-2 virus was observed. This infectious wastewater potentially leads to environmental disturbances to the rivers and oceans. To tackle global environmental concerns, sustainable waste management is required especially in the development of biodegradable personal protective equipment.

Challenges and solutions in COVID-19 related pandemic solid waste management (PSWM) - A detailed analysis with special focus on plastic waste

A pandemic like novel coronavirus 2’ (SARS-CoV-2) not only poses serious public health repercussions but also affects the socio-economic and environmental conditions of the affected countries. The increased consumption of material resources in conjunction with ‘containment and preventive measures’ is generating an unprecedented amount of potentially infectious solid waste, especially that of plastic origin, which if mismanaged, is bound to affect the ecosystem and public health, as the virus can survive on fomites for longer duration. COVID-19 related pandemic waste, such as Personal protective equipment (PPEs), sanitizer and water bottles, disinfection wipes, and Single use Plastics (SUPs) products has already found its way to the aquatic and terrestrial environment. Even before the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the management of plastic waste, an environmental stressor with trans-boundary migration capabilities, was a major environmental issue for every stake-holder.In this paper, we propose a separate domain in the waste management framework for the effective management of pandemic related solid waste. Factors and sources contributing to increased plastic waste generation are discussed in detail. A concise picture of global plastic demand through sectors and polymer types is presented and speculations are made on how COVID-19 is going to affect the plastic demand. Current solid waste handling and management practices in developed and developing countries are critically examined from the perspective of this pandemic. We identified various challenges that waste management sectors are facing currently and offered possible solutions.Concerns of transmission through fomites is bringing a change in public behavior and consumption pattern which affects 3R practices, while fear of secondary transmission from occupational infections is interfering with 3R practices at end-of-life plastic waste management. The legislative and restrictive frameworks on plastic use being currently put-on hold at the governmental level to ensure public safety are being used by the plastic industry to lobby for increased plastic consumption. The inability of the governments to win public confidence is further escalating unsustainable practices and slowing the shift towards sustainable economy. It is imperative to enforce sustainable practices without putting public safety at risk and to ensure that an unsustainable societal attitude wouldn’t be reinstated in the post-pandemic world. Lastly, eight research and policy points suggested here may guide future studies and governmental frameworks in the domain of COVID-19 pandemic related solid waste handling and management.

ECOBRICK SEBAGAI SOLUSI DALAM MENGURANGI TIMBULAN SAMPAH PLASTIK DI KELURAHAN KEPOLOREJO KECAMATAN MAGETAN KABUPATEN MAGETAN

Waste management in Magetan Regency still uses a conventional system. Meanwhile, the amount of generated waste transported to the landfill will continue to increase along with the population growth and cause the landfill land to decrease. The purpose of this study was to determine the potential ecobricks as a solution in reducing the generation of plastic waste in Kepolorejo Urban Village, Magetan Sub district, Magetan Regency. Sampling was carried out in accordance with SNI 19-3694-1994 at each hamlet in Kepolorejo Urban Village. Based on the results of sampling conducted on 33 families or 98 people spread across 12 hamlet in Kepolorejo Urban Village, the total waste generation generated in Kepolorejo Urban Village is 253.4 kg. the total plastic waste generation in Kepolorejo Urban Village is 18.8 kg consisting of plastic waste that can be used as ecobrick raw material, which is 11.9 kg/day and plastic waste that cannot be used as ecobrick raw material, which 6.9 kg. the value of the potential for ecobrick in reducing the generation waste in Kepolorejo is 4.6%. the number of ecobrick that can be produced in 1 year is 99.631.

An Improved Two-states Cyclical Dynamic Model for Plastic Waste Management

The panacea to the global challenge of plastic waste management is the transition towards plastic circular economy, which can be sustained through tailor-made management strategies. However, cutting-edge strategic solutions are constrained by inadequate data due to inadequate plastic-based predictive models. This paper presents an improved version of an existing two-state cyclical dynamic closed (CDC) model. The CDC model was formulated using a homogeneous linear system of ordinary differential equations (ODEs) and was modified by introducing a separation target which plays an essential role in determining both quantity and quality of recycled plastics. The Laplace transforms technique was the main analytic solution technique used. Values of the parameters were computed using the global plastic data applied for the existing CDC model, and with a technique termed the nth-order product derivative proximity, alternating pairs of initial values were selected each for the global annual plastic production and the global annual plastic waste generation. The validation process of the new CDC model was accomplished using the root mean squared error (RMSE) and the mean average percentage error (MAPE), which are measures of the model’s predictive power. Comparatively, RMSEs of the new CDC model were smaller than the RMSEs of the existing CDC model. MAPEs for the new CDC model were 6.5% and 7% (as against 13% and 18% in the existing model) respectively for the global annual plastic: production and waste generation, indicating that the new model predicts with 93.5% and 93% degrees of accuracy respectively for the global annual plastic: production and waste generation. Therefore, the new CDC model has outperformed the existing CDC model in terms of predictive power, and thus, establishing the new CDC model as an improved version of the existing one. The model can therefore make impactful policy decisions for sustainable plastic waste management thereby aiding to achieve the transition towards circular economy in plastic waste management.

Impact of COVID-19 lockdown on aquatic environment and fishing community: Boon or bane?

COVID-19 pandemic is a serious threat for mankind having an extensive socio-economic impact. However, it is considered as an unfortunate event with some positive environmental effects where nature is retrieving itself. The water quality index in different places of the world was reported to be improved during the lockdown, which in turn whipped up the regenerative process of fishes, sea turtles, marine mammals, and aquatic birds. Additionally, ecologically sensitive areas such as mangroves and coral reefs were also seen rejuvenating during COVID-19 seal off. But these favourable implications are temporary as there is an unexpected surge in plastic waste generation in the form of PPE kits, face masks, gloves, and other healthcare equipment. Moreover, the outbreak of the pandemic resulted in the complete closure of fishing activities, decline in fish catch, market disruption, and change in consumer preference. To address these multidimensional effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, government organizations, NGOs, and other concerned authorities should extend their support to amplify the positive impacts of the lockdown and reduce the subsequent pollution level while encouraging the fisheries sector.

The effect of a polystyrene nanoplastic on the intestinal microbes and oxidative stress defense of the freshwater crayfish, Procambarus clarkii

The widespread generation and accumulation of plastic waste has become a globally recognized problem. However, there are limited reports on the adverse effects of nanomaterials on freshwater crustaceans. This study tested the acute effects of different concentrations (0, 5, 10, and 20 mg/L) after 48 h exposure of 75 nm polystyrene nanoplastic on intestinal microbes, and oxidative stress parameters of freshwater crayfish, Procambarus clarkii. High-throughput sequencing analysis revealed the richness, diversity, and composition of intestinal microbiota in P. clarkii exposed to polystyrene nanoplastic. At the genus level, abundances of Lactobacillus, Faecalibaculum, Niveibacterium, and Candidatus Bacilloplasma were significantly different. The reduced abundance of Lactobacillus could affect the balance of intestinal microbes through quantitative disadvantage, which may lead to reduced immunity of P. clarkii. Streptococcus salivarius, Clostridium butyricum and Lachnospiraceae bacterium10–1 in intestinal tract reached maximum abundance at a polystyrene concentration of 20 mg/L. The increase in the number of some pathogenic bacteria may upset the balance of intestinal microorganisms through the number of dominance, and the decrease in the relative abundance of lactic acid bacteria. Probiotics, such as Lactobacillus salivarius, Lactobacillus murinus, Lactobacillus gasseri, Lactobacillus reuteri, Lactobacillus iners AB-1, and Lactobacillus crispatus in the intestinal tract reached the lowest value at a concentration of 10 mg/L. The reduced abundance of Lactobacillus can affect the balance of intestinal microbes through quantitative disadvantage, which may lead to reduced immunity in P. clarkii. At nanoplastic 10 mg/L, the relative abundance of intestinal pathogens increased, while the relative abundance of lactic acid bacteria and other probiotics decreased. With increases in nanoplastic concentrations, the values of glutathione (GSH), superoxide dismutase (SOD), acid phosphatase (ACP), lysozyme (LZM), alkaline phosphatase (AKP), peroxidase (POD), glutathione peroxidase (GPX), and protein carbonylation were significantly changed. Our data suggested that Lactobacillus may play an adjunctive role in the treatment of oxidative stress in P. clarkii exposed to 75 nm polystyrene. This study represents an important step towards a better understanding of the toxic effects of nanoplastics on aquatic crustaceans.

Utilization of Plastic Waste and Its Management: A Mini-Review

Developing countries including India suffer significant environmental issues as a result of plastic waste generation and insufficient waste collection, transportation, treatment, and disposal that adversely impact the ecosystem, human health and sustainable future. In India, plastic waste is generated at a rate of 26,000 tonnes per day (TPD). Even though 60% of India's plastic is recycled, the country still has 9,400 TPD of plastic waste. This paper focuses on a mini-review of the recent available literature on the utilization of plastic wastes in India and its management. The analysis offers a comparison of plastic consumption across India's states. Effects of plastic waste on the different environments (soil, water, and marine) and human health are also elucidated. To reduce plastic use and address the problem of plastic waste accumulation, efforts must be made to examine the usage of renewable raw materials in innovative goods as a result of recent technological advancements.

Reducing Plastic Waste by Visualizing Marine Consequences

Plastic pollution has become a major global conservation challenge. To reduce the generation of plastic waste, we designed and tested several behavioral interventions in a randomized control trial to reduce plastic waste in a high-rise office building. We randomly assigned eight floors in the building to four conditions: (1) simplified recycling signage, (2) signage with a marine animal trapped in plastic debris, (3) signage with a pledge that invited people to be plastic wise to protect ocean life, and (4) control. We found that the signage with the animal reduced plastic waste by 17%, the largest effect among the other conditions. After implementing the signage to the entire building, we found an overall reduction in plastic waste over 6 weeks. The current study demonstrates the effectiveness of visualizing marine consequences of plastic waste and provides a behavioral solution connecting disposal actions and the downstream consequences for plastic waste reduction.

Biodegradation of petroleum based and bio-based plastics: approaches to increase the rate of biodegradation.

Plastic production and consumption are on the rise due to their variety of uses. Plastics often accumulate in the environment and pose a risk due to the lack of a viable strategy for their safe disposal. Even prohibiting plastic covers does not solve the problems of plastic waste generation. Plastics are degraded by various microbes, although at a very slow rate. In addition, efforts to enhance plastic degradation efficiency by microbes are rarely addressed. This paper describes the biodegradation of both petroleum-based and bio-based plastics, as well as studies on plastic biodegradation in both the Indian and global scenarios. This paper also discusses the biochemical and molecular aspects of plastic biodegradation, which are essential since they disclose more about how bacteria break down plastics. We also shed light on initiatives to boost biodegradation rates using various strategies in this article. Understanding the enzymes and genes involved in biodegradation would also help researchers figure out how to use them to enhance microorganism's ability to degrade plastic.

Control of the fate of toxic pollutants from catalytic pyrolysis of polyurethane by oxidation using CO2

In automotive industry, plastic consumption has substantially increased due to its affordability, durability, and lightness. However, the massive generation of plastic wastes from the automotive industry becomes a growing environmental concern. Current disposal methods of end-of-life vehicles (ELVs) are incineration and landfilling, but these methods generate toxic chemicals and leachate into the environment. To propose more sustainable disposal platform for ELVs, this study used a pyrolysis process using CO2 as a reaction medium. As a case study, automotive seat form (ASF) in ELVs was disposed and valorized through the CO2-assisted pyrolysis. ASF, composed of polyurethane, generated harmful aromatic compounds during pyrolysis process such as benzene, aniline and their derivatives. To convert harmful chemicals into value-added syngas (H2 and CO), catalytic pyrolysis of ASF was performed using a nickel catalyst. Effects of both CO2 and nickel catalyst showed 89.9 wt% reduction of toxic chemical production by converting them into syngas, as comparing to pyrolysis without Ni catalyst. Gas-phase-reaction between CO2 and pyrogenic products from ASF resulted in more than 200 times of CO production. Also, CO2 suppressed catalyst deactivation. Therefore, this study suggested that CO2 and plastic waste from ELVs can be converted to value-added products through CO2-assisted catalytic pyrolysis.

Plastic Waste Management in India: Challenges, Opportunities, and Roadmap for Circular Economy

Plastic waste (PW) is one of the most rapid-growing waste streams in municipal solid waste all over the world. India has become a global player in the plastic value chain. Despite low consumption, domestic generation and imports create a significant burden on the overall waste management system, which requires in-depth understanding of the scenario and pathways that can mitigate the crisis. Although Indian researchers have widely researched technology-related issues in academic papers, a substantial knowledge gap exists in understanding the problem’s depth and possible solutions. This review article focuses on current plastic production, consumption, and waste generation in India. This review article mainly analyzes data and information regarding Indian PW management and highlights some critical issues such as reverse supply chain, effective PW management, source-specific recovery, and PW rules in India. Comprehensively, this review will help to identify implementable strategies for policymakers and research opportunities for future researchers in holistic PW management and recycling in India, focusing on the circular economy and sustainable development goals.

Spatiotemporal dynamics of microplastics burden in River Ravi, Pakistan

Microplastics (MPs) are emerging pollutants with detrimental effects on aquatic organisms and human health. The massive generation of plastic waste on land leads to MPs pollution in the aquatic environment. Some reports highlight the abundance of MPs in Pakistan however, no detailed research has been documented about the presence of MPs in the riverine environment. In this regard, the present study highlights the spatial distribution of MPs in River Ravi during monsoon and post-monsoon seasons. The MPs in water and sediment samples were isolated through wet peroxide oxidation digestion, density separation, and filtration followed by microscopic quantification and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) analysis. The results showed that in water samples, the average concentrations of MPs in monsoon and post-monsoon seasons were 768 ± 869 MPs/m3 and 1324 ± 1925 MPs/m3, whereas, sediments depicted 5323 ± 3792 MPs/kg-dry weight and 2637 ± 2701 MPs/kg-dry weight, respectively. Similarly, fiber was the most abundant type of MPs, and Polypropylene (PP), Polyethylene (PE), Polyester (PES), and Polystyrene (PS) were the most dominant polymer types in both environmental matrices. In terms of their sources, urban sprawl, industrialization, improper solid waste management, and overuse of plastic products are positively correlated with MPs level in River Ravi. Moreover, this is the first study on the spatiotemporal distribution of MPs in River Ravi from Pakistan and indicates the high burden of MPs pollution. Consequently, it will provide scientific information to policymakers and river managers to deal effectively with plastic pollution.