91Pro

Abstract

The objective of this review was to systematically collate and categorise published and grey literature relating to microplastic pollution in the environment, and the potential socio-economic implications, to support a report for policy advice on microplastics for the European Commission.

Description

Concern about the prevalence and impacts of microplastic pollution in the environment is increasing, and as a result there is growing call for political action. Whilst there is a general consensus that plastic pollution must be controlled and reduced, the plastic and microplastic debate is made particularly complex by the fact that it is a consequence of an everyday and globalised way of living and consuming, with many socio-economic implications.

This evidence review systematically gathered and collated published and grey literature relating to:

1. The impact, source, transport and incidence of microplastics in the environment

2. The socio-economic implications around the microplastics debate including: risk perception by citizens, behaviour of stakeholders, and implications for public goods and opportunity costs, and the political economy and policy.

The evidence was categorised and presented in a systematic map to support a final report for the European Commission published by SAPEA:.

Funded by SAPEA

This project forms part of the work carried out by the Centre for Evidence Based Agriculture at 91Pro.