Microplastics pollution in China water ecosystems: a review of the abundance, characteristics, fate, risk and removal

Microplastics pollution has been a focus for researchers in recent years worldwide, for the large quantities of plastics in production and the resistance to degradation. China's microplastics pollution attracts much attention because of its long coastline, large population and rapid economic development. This review addresses the widespread microplastics pollution in China's water ecosystems through available research results from recent years and analyses the abundance, characteristics, fate and risk of microplastics. This paper also discusses the current treatment technology of microplastics. The conclusions show that estuaries are severely affected by microplastics pollution; the accumulation of microplastics and adsorption of contaminants by microplastics could also lead to serious risks besides ingestion; there are few technologies that can efficiently remove microplastics pollution in sewage treatment plants. Finally, this review suggests directions for future research trends.