Microplastics in urban surface waters: origin, form, dispersion, aquatic pollution, contamination and legislation

Abstract

Microplastic pollution has become an emerging environmental and public health concern, especially in urban surface waters affected by improper disposal of single-use plastics and limited waste management infrastructure. This bibliographic study analyzes scientific literature published between 2017 and 2026 on origin, size, morphology, dispersion, environmental impacts, health risks, sustainability challenges, and regulatory responses related to microplastics. Evidence indicates that fibers, fragments, and films derived from synthetic polymers such as Polyethylene terephthalate - PET, polyethylene - PE, Polypropylene - PP, Polystyrene - PS and Polyvinyl chloride - PVC. They are frequently detected in aquatic systems, sediments, and organisms, including species of socioeconomic relevance in Brazil and the Amazon region. The review also shows that current wastewater treatment and solid waste management systems remain insufficient to prevent the persistence and dispersion of these contaminants. The data obtained and analyzed reinforces the need for standardized monitoring, stricter regulation, improved reverse logistics, and public communication strategies to reduce environmental exposure and accumulation