Microplastics pollution in Bangladesh: A Decade of Challenges, Impacts and Pathways to Sustainability

Abstract This review revisits microplastic pollution in Bangladesh from 2014 to 2024, synthesizing research on distribution, plastic types, policies, and mitigation strategies. Using PubMed and Google Scholar, peer-reviewed articles and documents were analysed to assess the sources, impacts, and policy effectiveness. Microplastics contaminate rivers, soil, air, fertilizers, and food products. The dominant polymers, including polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrene, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyamide, originate from fishing nets, industrial discharge, and urban waste, threatening ecosystems and food chains. Plastic pollution is exacerbated by transboundary river systems, excessive plastic production, the use of single-use plastics, and ineffective waste management. Meghna, Karnaphuli, and Rupsha rivers transport 1 million metric tons of mismanaged waste annually to coastal areas. The plastic industry, employing 1.2 million people across 5,000 manufacturers, has increased per capita plastic consumption from 3 kg in 2005 to 9 kg in 2020, worsening waste accumulation. The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the crisis, with polythene bag usage increasing to 21 billion, generating 78,433 tons of waste. Plastic pollution costs USD 39 million annually, impacting tourism, fisheries, and municipal budgets, while microplastic contamination threatens seafood exports, and clean-up costs consume 30% of Bangladesh’s environmental budget. Using an agent-based system dynamics model, simulations predict that per capita plastic waste will rise to 11.6 kg by 2040, with landfill accumulation reaching 70,000 tons and riverine discharge increasing from 512 to 834 tons, raising the plastic waste footprint index (PWFI) to 24. Policy 2, which implements 69% conversion, 80% source separation, and 50% riverine discharge reduction, proves most effective, lowering PWFI to 1.07 and ensuring sustainable waste management. However, an integrated approach combining research, policy enforcement, technological innovation, and global collaboration is crucial. Strengthening waste management framework, regulatory enforcement, and sustainable economic strategies will enable Bangladesh to mitigate microplastic pollution, advance its circular economy, and contribute to global environmental conservation.