Large populations are exposed to fresh surface water and plastic-packaged drinking water that are contaminated with particulate plastics around the world. In the review, particulate plastics are discussed in relation to the exposure of humans to particulate plastics and the potential risks of adverse health effects. About 4,000,000 particles may be ingested and internalised annually by human beings. Current studies indicate that environmental management of particulate plastics is still in its infancy in many developing countries and that they have received limited research attention with regard to their potential release into drinking water. Currently, there are no standard protocols for testing these materials in environmental media, and testing methods for these materials are inconsistent. Considering that the risk assessment pathways for particulate plastics have not been validated, the current study emphasises the need to strengthen the capacity of developing countries to monitor the environment and manage plastic waste in a circular manner. A holistic and more comprehensive approach is recommended in the paper for evaluating particulate plastics in drinking water and other environmental matrices using quality-assured methods. At the continental level, they proposed an African framework that commits to a circular plastics program by considering: improvements in waste separation and collection, improvements in recycling rates and increasing demand for recycled products, increasing penetration of bioplastics, advocating for the manufacturing of cleaner packaging through product re-engineering, and advocating for re-useable plastics
It aims to prevent, deter, and eliminate Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, aligning with FAO’s International Plan of Action. It strengthens fisheries governance, vessel monitoring, and regional cooperation to protect marine resources and livelihoods. The plan includes licensing regulations, ecosystem-based fisheries management, and stricter enforcement against IUU activities. It promotes sustainable fishing, marine biodiversity[…]
It promotes sustainable ocean management, marine biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience. It aims to integrate scientific and traditional knowledge, enhance marine governance, and support a blue economy. The policy establishes marine protected areas, combats land and marine pollution (including plastic waste), and strengthens regulations on resource extraction. It aligns with international commitments such as the[…]
It aims to reduce marine pollution including plastic pollution through policy implementation, technological innovations, monitoring, and public awareness. It addresses land- and sea-based pollution sources, emphasizing circular economy principles and sustainable waste management. The plan aligns with international frameworks and includes 17 actions and 103 activities. Key strategies involve reducing single-use plastics, improving recycling systems,[…]
Ireland’s National Implementation Plan (2012) under the Stockholm Convention aims to control and eliminate Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs). It outlines legal measures to restrict the production, use, and release of POPs, including pesticides, industrial chemicals, and unintentional by-products like dioxins and furans. The plan enforces monitoring, regulatory compliance, waste disposal, and public awareness campaigns. Efforts[…]
It aims to prevent and manage hazardous waste effectively while minimizing environmental and health risks. The plan prioritizes waste reduction, improved collection, and increased self-sufficiency in hazardous waste treatment. Key strategies include regulatory enforcement, waste prevention programs, and public awareness campaigns. The plan also promotes alternatives to hazardous materials, better disposal facilities, and stricter monitoring[…]