Algal-based degradation of microplastic: prospects for combating microplastic pollution

• Main Authors: Othman, Rashidi, Mohd Hatta, Farah Ayuni, Mohd Latiff, Nur Hanie, Wan Sulaiman, Wan Syibrah Hanisah, Ramya, Razanah, Mat Ali, Qurratu Aini, Johari, Nursyafica Nadia, Abu Bakar, Ainaa Eliah
• Other Authors: Shahnawaz, Mohd
• Format: Book Chapter
• Language: English
• Published: Springer Nature 2024
• Subjects: BPC Science and Technology in Islam; GE Environmental Sciences; SH389 Fisheries-Algae and Algae Culture; TD169 Environmental protection; TD172 Environmental pollution; TD878 Special types of pollution; TP248.13 Biotechnology
• Online Access: http://irep.iium.edu.my/111972/1/111972_Algal-based%20degradation%20of%20microplastic.pdf; http://irep.iium.edu.my/111972/; https://link.springer.com/chapter/10.1007/978-981-99-8357-5_29
• Institution: Universiti Islam Antarabangsa Malaysia

Microalgae or microphytes are microscopic microorganisms that can be found in both freshwater and seawater. They can be described as a diverse group of unicellular and predominantly photosynthetic organisms. Eukaryotic or prokary-otic cyanobacteria (blue-green algae) can be classified as microalgae. The phycoremediation process uses microalgae to bioremediate (bioconcentrate, biotransform, sequester, assimilate, and biosorption) contaminants like heavy metals, phosphates, nitrates and the most recent microplastics from polluted waters in an eco-friendly manner without generating additional toxic compounds. It is a reliable alternative method for addressing microplastic pollution in a responsible, cost-effective, and practical manner when compared to conventional treatment methods. It also has the added benefit of lowering the carbon footprint. Several initiatives have been undertaken in the fields of immobilisation, pre-treatment techniques, genetic engineering, and other technologies to fully harness the potential of microalgae in phycoremediation and the production of value-added products (such as bioenergy and biofuel generation). Additionally, to address the ever-growing problem of water pollution in the world, particularly microplastic pollution, phycoremediation strategies must examine and develop hyperaccumulator algae species from pre-existing algal species. This integrated structure is a prime example of how to achieve numerous goals while implementing sustainable growth policies that address environmental, social, and industrial concerns, protecting natural resource, and simultaneously enhanc-ing the quality of life for the world’s growing population. Consequently, an in-depth research is necessary to analyse or produce hyperaccumulator algae species that could easily and efficiently tackle the issue of microplastic pollution.