ABSTRACT
One of the most worrying problems of the 21st century is the issue of microplastics (MPs) and microfibers related to the rapidly increasing plastics manufacturing. Although there is little proof that MP and microfiber pollution is hazardous, it must be considered a potential concern to human health because its concentration constantly increases. Much research has shown that MPs are present outdoors, but limited studies have examined the prevalence of airborne MPs and microfibers in indoor environments. This chapter aims to analyze the literature to determine the sources of these newly developing pollutants in the indoor environment and how they can affect human health. A critical analysis of the current literature showed that indoor air and dust (houses, schools, workplaces, etc.) contain more MPs and microfibers than outdoors. This was ascribed to several things, such as interior sources of MPs and microfibers (including furniture and textiles), greater ambient MP and microfiber deposition indoors, and minimum dilution and mixing compared to the outside air. According to current understanding, indoor human exposure to MPs and microfibers happens through dermal contact, ingestion, and inhalation. Before recent research demonstrated the possibility of substantial exposure by inhalation, dietary consumption was thought to be the primary mechanism of human exposure to MPs. We should not neglect exposure through dermal contact and dust ingestion, especially for children. This is concerning because of the possible toxicity of MP and microfiber exposure. Also, there is increasing concern over the presence of additives added to MPs and microfiber and the contaminants they can carry due to their large surface area to volume ratio, making them more toxic. However, research into MPs and microfiber exposure and risk assessment in humans is still in its early stages. Additional study is needed to provide the knowledge base for legislation to safeguard human health and the environment from MPs and microfibers.
