Microplastics occurrence in high-altitude mountain lakes: Insights from recent research

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Review Paper 12/12/2023
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Microplastics occurrence in high-altitude mountain lakes: Insights from recent research

Arfat Nazir, Muzafar Riyaz, Shaik Mohammad Hussain
J. Biodiv. & Environ. Sci. 23(6), 74-80, December 2023.
Copyright Statement: Copyright 2023; The Author(s).
License: CC BY-NC 4.0

Abstract

The occurrence of microplastics in high-mountain lakes, once considered pristine and free from human-induced pollution, has emerged as a pressing concern. Recent research has exposed the pervasiveness of microplastic pollution even in these remote environments. This study underscores the urgency to comprehend microplastic pollution in high-mountain lakes comprehensively, emphasizing its global reach and diverse origins. The study serves as a clarion call for collaborative research and concerted efforts to mitigate the consequences of microplastic contamination. The transformation of once-pristine high-mountain lakes into arenas of microplastic accumulation necessitates a multidisciplinary approach involving researchers, policymakers, and local communities. Acknowledging and addressing microplastic pollution stands as a critical step towards preserving these remarkable ecosystems, essential for biodiversity maintenance and the sustenance of ecosystem services. Protecting high-mountain lakes demands effective mitigation strategies to shield them from the adverse impacts of microplastics, thus safeguarding their integrity and contributing to the overarching goal of reducing plastic pollution on a global scale.

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