Are we eating plastic? Science mapping of microplastic pollution in the aquatic food chain.

This study focuses on the knowledge structure of microplastic pollution and its effects on the aquatic food chain through a bibliometric analysis of 947 peer-reviewed journal publications from 2008 to 2023 retrieved from the Web of Science database. Using bibliographic coupling and co-word analysis, three main current research themes were identified: sources of microplastic pollution, microplastics in the ocean, and the impact of microplastics and nanoplastics on ecosystems; future research trends emphasize microplastic pollution in freshwater environments, combating marine contamination, and uncovering hidden environmental and health impacts. The study highlights three key principles for mitigating microplastic pollution: public education, holistic regulations and policies, and development of treatment strategies combining conventional, innovative, and hybrid approaches. It underscores the global and transboundary nature of microplastic pollution, calling for coordinated international efforts and integration with frameworks such as the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals to effectively address this environmental challenge.