Addressing the microplastic crisis: A multifaceted approach to removal and regulation

• Microplastics’ (MPs) growing threat needs collaborative mitigation efforts. • The review identifies MP knowledge gaps, and proposes research priorities. • MP crisis requires regulatory, social, and technical solutions. • MP pollution needs a holistic governance, innovation, engagement. • Public education of global MP crisis and its impacts must not be overlooked. The presence of microplastics (MPs) in the environment poses a serious threat to both human health and ecosystems. MPs are small plastic particles that originate from various sources, such as textile fibers, cosmetics, and plastic debris. They can enter aquatic and terrestrial habitats through wastewater discharge and accumulate in the food chain.…