In the context of environmental concerns, microplastic (MPs) pollution emerges as one of the burning issues. The goal of this multifaceted analysis is to provide an up-to-date picture of MPs in the aquatic system with an emphasis on the marine environment. As of now, the growing concern of MP is due to high level fragmentation. The high surface area to volume ratio, crystallinity, and functional groups of MPs allows them to interact with a broad assortment of pollutants, including heavy metals, antibiotics, and persistent organic compounds. Understanding the origin, source, and fate of MPs in the marine environment is challenging, however, crucial for better management and regulation of MPs. Various spectroscopic and microscopic techniques can be applied to analyze MPs. This review article demonstrates the concept of MP lifecycle and footprint covering transport mechanism and pathways, possible characterization, degradation, and remediation processes. Additionally, the ecological and environmental impacts of MPs along with future directions were also highlighted. Thus, fostering global collaboration and innovative research and development can pave the path towards a healthier and cleaner earth for future generations. © The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer Nature Switzerland AG 2025.
