From Rivers to Oceans, the Hydrological Footprint of Microplastics: Policy Solutions and Life Cycle Assessment for Sustainable Development Goal's Alignment

The impact and dispersion of plastics and microplastics (MPs), or every stage of its lifecycle including manufacture, utilization, release, transportation, accumulation, and ultimate disposal, can be cumulatively termed as “microplastic footprint”. The principal objectives of this study are to investigate the lifecycle of MPs in aquatic environments; to evaluate their ecological effects on aquatic organisms, and to evaluate human health concerns through the food chain, hindering the path to achieving sustainable development goals (SDGs). Understanding these aspects is crucial for the development of effective mitigation measures including the reduction of MP production in each stage of its life cycle through proper Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) and possible sustainable ways and alternatives. The concerns of MPs are being investigated with a focus on how they might hamper the implementation of sustainable plans and strategies for achieving the United Nations SDGs.