This book extensively covers issues and concerns related to plastics and micro/nano-plastics (MNPs) in the environment, offering a comprehensive exploration beyond simple collection and disposal processes. It uniquely integrates core public health and community medicine aspects with environmental and biodiversity-related consequences, supported by case studies of microplastics and associated components. The book emphasizes the impact of microplastics on environmental, animal, and human health, with a special focus on ecosystems and biodiversity, marine and aquatic ecosystems, agricultural and food safety, air, water, and soil degradation, ecological dysbiosis, and associated health hazards.

Readers will encounter a balanced distribution of insights from experienced authors, including professionals from academia and industry across various countries. The chapters cover a wide range of topics, including the mechanisms of environmental degradation of plastics, methods for identifying and quantifying micro and nano plastics, and their air, water, and soil contamination. Readers will also discover the effects of these pollutants on various ecosystems, such as lentic and lotic systems, floodplain aquifers, and even remote regions like Antarctica. The book further explores the impact on wildlife, biodiversity, and human health, addressing critical issues like cardiovascular complications, gut and immune function, and carcinogenicity.

This book is an essential resource for students at all academic levels in science, technology, engineering, and medical fields, as well as a valuable reference for government agencies, research institutes, industry professionals, NGOs, and researchers focused on innovation and sustainability. It presents innovative solutions, including bioplastics and nature-based approaches, and discusses the potential for technological innovation in plastics waste management. It extensively addresses the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 3, 6, 12, 13, 14, and 15, highlighting the challenges micro-nano-plastics pose for a sustainable future. This volume is particularly relevant for those working towards achieving the environmental protection and public health SDGs.

Autorentext

Srijan Goswami is a physician of the Biochemic System of Medicine and also specializes in Medical Biotechnology and Clinical Nutrition. He received his professional training in Community Nutrition and Child Care, Medical Microbiology, Medical Biochemistry, and Diabetes Counseling from reputed medical colleges in Kolkata, India. He has experience teaching in a diverse range of paramedical and life sciences departments at reputed colleges and institutions. He is currently associated as the Research Coordinator for the Biomedical Research and Allied Sciences Division at Voice of Environment, Assam, India. Dr. Goswami has received four Letters of Commendation for Global Community Services and a Certificate of Honor for his contributions to the field of science and knowledge. He is actively associated with the editorial review board of 15 international journals.

Moharana Choudhury is an Indian researcher and environmentalist. He has worked on various scientific projects across multiple government departments and has more than 14 years of research and work experience in environmental research and services. He began his career as a research intern at the NIDM, New Delhi, followed by a position as a Junior Research Fellow at NESAC (Department of Space, Government of India/ISRO Unit). He has served as an editor and reviewer for various prestigious international publishing houses worldwide Choudhury is actively involved in various environmental conservation activities in Assam and throughout India. He has worked on several initiatives to integrate environmentally sustainable projects for iconic heritage places, wetlands, and ecotourism spots in Assam, particularly focusing on cleanliness and combating single-use plastic pollution. He contributes to various environmental research, management, social media mass awareness, and research studies. He is also well known in India for his efforts to implement environmental education and safeguard the privileges of environmental degree holders. He completed his education with an MSc, PGDGIS, PGDEM, and PGCGARD from Gurukul Kangri Deemed to be University, Haridwar, Uttarakhand; North Eastern Hill University (NEHU), Shillong, Meghalaya; Tezpur University, Assam; and NIRDPR, Hyderabad, India, respectively.

Palas Samanta is an Assistant Professor at Sukanta Mahavidyalaya, University of North Bengal, India. He completed his Ph.D. in Environmental Science from the University of Burdwan. Dr. Samanta has five years of post-doctoral research experience at various institutes in South Korea, including the Korea Institute of Toxicology, Korea University, and Incheon National University. He has been awarded the DST INSPIRE Fellowship by the Department of Science & Technology, Government of India. Dr. Samanta's research focuses on environmental toxicology, biotechnology, risk assessment, pollution assessment, fate and toxicity analysis of heavy metals and pesticides, histopathology, and antioxidant studies. He is a member of the Electron Microscopic Society of India, the Biotech Research Society, India, and the Environment and Social Development Association. He serves on the editorial board of four reputed journals and is recognized as an honored reviewer for twenty-three journals.