A critical review on recent research progress on microplastic pollutants in drinking water

Plastic pollution is an emerging issue in recent days. Persistent plastic particles reach the atmosphere, land and water by multiple pathways. Research has confirmed that the existence of plastic particles is found surprisingly everywhere, from the Artic to the Antarctic region. The probability of ingestion of plastic by all living forms is quite natural, as the whole planet's environment is polluted with microplastic particles. The bioaccumulation of microplastics is a threat and the consequences for living beings are yet to be explored. Microplastics present in different drinking water sources like rivers, lakes, treatment units etc. are studied by several researchers, covering various aspects. Research carried out by various scientists on the microplastics in different drinking water sources is highlighted in this review. In view of the previous research carried out on various aspects of microplastic particles, the necessity of a uniform protocol for qualitative and quantitative analysis of microplastic is ascertained. Microplastic pollution is an ongoing environmental concern, it must be addressed and research should be expanded.