Research progress on microplastics pollution in polar oceans

Abstract

Microplastics pollution in the oceans has become a new environmental threat in recent years. Microplastics have been found even in remote polar sea areas, including in water, sediment, sea ice, marine snow, and marine organisms in polar sea areas. Here, we reviewed 54 scientific studies on the distribution characteristics and pollution status of microplastics in polar oceans. We identified the potential sources and fates of microplastics in polar oceans. Microplastics in polar regions are mainly originated from the ocean current drift input, riverine input, fishing and shipping activities, microplastics emission in polar human settlements, and atmospheric migration. Microplastics have a potential to pose a threat on the polar marine organisms, and affect the stability of polar marine ecosystems. There is an urgent need further study to establish standardized methods and analysis processes and strengthen source control for microplastic pollution in polar oceans.