Impact of Nanoplastic Pollution on African Ecosystems: A Compilation of Recent Research

S/No.

Author(s) and Year

Finding

1

Dahms et al (2022) & Dube & Okuthe, 2024

Dahms et al, reported the presence of microplastic in water, sediment, and fish (Clarias gariepinus) from the Vaal River of South Africa [76]. Similarly, [77] Data show that nanoplastic are present in significant concentrations in fish and other marine species in Ghana and Nigeria. Fish from the Jamestown landing beach in Ghana had up to 133 elements per fish. This indicates severe contamination, which may be exacerbated by poor waste management and excessive local plastic use. MPs discovered include fibers, fragments, films, and foams formed from various polymers such as PE, PP, PS, and PES.

2

(Umar Donuma et al., 2024)

[28] Preliminary data reported indiscriminate disposal of plastic bottles and sachet water bags in Maiduguri, Borno State, Nigeria. This has resulted in the accumulation of plastic debris in open spaces, drainage systems, and water bodies. This nanoplastics undergo environmental degradation, such as clogged drainage systems, increased flood risks, and a reduction in the city's aesthetic attractiveness. Furthermore, the presence of plastic. They reported the presence of nanoplastic in water bodies has contaminated water sources with microplastics and other contaminants, which constitute a possible risk to human health.

3

(Wegi & Urge) 2022 and Beriot
et al. (2021)

Wegi & Urge [78], found indigestible foreign bodies, including plastic, in Ethiopian cattle.84, similarly to that of [79], who also found nanoplastic in sheep faces and soil from an intensive vegetable garden using plastic mulch.

4

Carrasco Silva et al., (2021) Dube
& Okuthe, 2024

Carrasco Silva et al., [80] found that nanoplastic can absorb pollutants and allow them to enter plants, leading to plant damage and negatively impacting growth and development. Furthermore, [77] nanoplastic have been detected in cattle feed, blood, milk, and meat. [80] Nanoplastic have also been been found in fish's gastrointestinal tracts and flesh. As fish, meat, and milk are important protein sources, they may be passed on to people through food. Idowu et al. found nanoplastic in fish from the Osun River, Nigeria .

5

Ramaremisa et al., 2024

Ramaremisa et al., [81] found fibrous-shaped of nanoplastic (<1 mm) with an average concentration of 14 ± 5.6 particles per liter in tap water samples from Gauteng neighborhoods in South Africa.

6

Dube & Okuthe, (2023), Yates et
al., (2019) &
Bhuyan, (2022)

In vitro and in vivo research have revealed that nanosized particles cause behavioral problems, neurotoxicity, tissue damage, oxidative stress, and delayed growth. This shows that humans may have similar effect as well. [82], [63] & [83]

7

(Wei,) 2021

Wei [84], discussed the policy gaps and opportunities for improving plastic waste management in Africa. Their study highlighted the need for comprehensive policies that address the entire lifecycle of plastic products, from production to disposal. For example, Rwanda is a pioneer in eliminating plastic bags, while Tanzania forbade their manufacturing, importation, sale, and usage. Kenya also banned single-use plastic bags. These situations are successful examples for other SSA countries to follow in other to manage plastic pollution [85].

8

Bouwmeester et al., 2015

Bouwmeester et al., [86] discussed the importance of removing barriers to plastic waste valorization in Africa. They emphasized the need for policies that promote recycling and the development of infrastructure to support waste management efforts. Their study highlighted that effective waste management practices could significantly reduce the environmental burden of plastic pollution. Focusing on the role of international collaboration in managing plastic waste in Africa. They pointed out that partnerships between African countries and international organizations could enhance the region's capacity to handle plastic waste more effectively. Both studies stress the need for policy interventions and international cooperation to improve plastic waste management in Africa.

9

Mensah & Badu (2022); Kwadwo
& Akosua (2023)

Mensah and Badu (2022), reviewed the implications of rapid population growth and inadequate waste management practices on plastic pollution in African aquatic environments. Their study found that these factors lead to the accumulation of plastic debris in water bodies, adversely affecting aquatic life. They emphasized the need for effective waste management strategies to address the escalating plastic pollution crisis in African water bodies. Kwadwo and Akosua (2023) highlighted the urgent need for policy and technological solutions to address plastic pollution in Africa. They pointed out that current waste management practices are insufficient and called for the implementation of innovative technologies and comprehensive policies to mitigate the impact of plastic pollution. Both studies underscore the critical need for improved waste management practices and policy reforms to protect Africa's aquatic ecosystems.

10

Asare & Atta- Boateng (2021); Boakye & Addo (2023)

Asare and Atta-Boateng (2021) analyzed the state of plastic pollution and its impacts on African water systems, focusing on microplastic contamination. Their research highlighted the adverse effects of plastic waste on aquatic ecosystems, including physical harm to marine life and the introduction of toxic substances into the food chain. Boakye and Addo (2023) discussed the prevalence of nanoplastic particles in African ecosystems and the need for more comprehensive data to understand their impact fully. They found that nanoplastics pose a significant threat to biodiversity and human health due to their small size and ability to carry harmful pollutants. Both studies call for more research to understand the full extent of plastic pollution and its effects on African ecosystems and public health.

11

Smith, (2023) & Ferronato & Torretta, 2019

Smith [87], discussed the policy gaps and opportunities for improving plastic waste management in Africa. Their study highlighted the need for comprehensive policies that address the entire lifecycle of plastic products, from production to disposal. They pointed out that current policies are often fragmented and insufficient to tackle the scale of plastic pollution [88]. Examined the challenges and opportunities in addressing plastic waste management in Africa. They identified several key barriers, including inadequate infrastructure, lack of funding, and limited public awareness. Both studies call for coordinated efforts from governments, industries, and communities to develop and implement effective waste management strategies that can mitigate the impact of plastic pollution.

12

Salgaonkar et al., (2024) &
Salgaonkar et al., (2024)

Salgaonkar et al.,[89] highlighted the presence of nanoplastics in remote areas, showing the widespread nature of the pollution. Their research documented how nanoplastics are found in air, water, and soil, even in locations far from urban centers. This widespread distribution indicates the pervasive nature of plastic pollution and its potential to affect diverse ecosystems. [1] further examined the environmental impacts of micro- and nanoplastics, focusing on their prevalence in African ecosystems. They found that nanoplastics pose a significant threat to biodiversity, as they can be ingested by a wide range of organisms, leading to various adverse effects such as physical blockages and toxic chemical exposure.
Both studies emphasize the urgent need for comprehensive research to understand the full extent and impact of nanoplastic pollution in Africa.

13

Schell et al., (2020) & Münzel
et al., (2023)

Schell et al., [90] highlighted the barriers to plastic waste valorization in Africa, emphasizing the low fraction of recycled plastics. Their research suggested that improvements in plastic waste management could significantly reduce the environmental burden of plastic pollution. They recommended implementing policies that promote recycling and the development of infrastructure to support waste management efforts. [91] echoed these sentiments, discussing the importance of removing barriers to plastic waste valorization. They pointed out that effective waste management practices could help mitigate the impact of plastic pollution on the environment. Both studies stressed the need for policy interventions and technological innovations to enhance plastic recycling rates in Africa.

14

Sohail et al., 2023 & Allen et al., 2022)

Sohail et al., [92] provided a comprehensive review of microplastic pollution in African aquatic environments. Their study summarized previous research efforts and assessed current analytical procedures used to measure microplastic contamination. They found that the methodologies for detecting microplastics vary significantly, leading to inconsistent data across studies. They emphasized the need for standardized protocols to accurately assess the extent of microplastic pollution. Similarly, [93] highlighted the need for better analytic procedures in their work on microplastic pollution in African rivers. They pointed out that existing methods often fail to capture the full scope of microplastic contamination, leading to an underestimation of the problem. Both studies call for improved scientific approaches to better understand and mitigate microplastic pollution in Africa's aquatic ecosystems.

15

Lima et al., (2023) & Shah et al., (2023)

Lima et al., [94] explored the current status of plastic pollution in Africa, focusing on its implications for aquatic ecosystem health. They found that rapid population growth and poor waste management practices are the main drivers of plastic pollution. These practices lead to the accumulation of plastic debris in water bodies, adversely affecting aquatic life. Their findings revealed that the ingestion of microplastic by aquatic organisms can cause physical harm and expose these organisms to harmful pollutants. [23] further examined the impact of plastic pollution on aquatic ecosystems. They discussed how plastic waste disrupts natural processes and poses significant threats to biodiversity. Their research highlighted the urgent need for effective waste management strategies to address the escalating plastic pollution crisis in African water bodies.

16

Shilla, (2019) & Lehel & Murphy, (2021)

Shilla [95] discussed the increasing levels of plastic production and importation in Sub-Saharan Africa. Their study highlighted the unregulated usage of plastics and inadequate waste management systems, which lead to widespread environmental contamination. They emphasized the need for stringent regulations to control plastic usage and improve recycling programs. [96] focused on the health impacts of plastic pollution, particularly the role of nanoplastics in spreading infectious diseases. Their research revealed that nanoplastics could carry pathogens, posing significant health risks to humans. Both studies underscore the urgent need for comprehensive strategies to address plastic pollution, including regulatory measures and public health interventions.