Microplastics in wastewater: State of the knowledge on sources, fate and solutions

Highlights: • Human activities and products release microplastics to sewage systems. • Wastewater treatment plants are currently efficient in the removal of microplastics. • Microplastics in effluents and sludge are sources of environmental contamination. • Source reduction is the most efficient method to reduce contamination. - Abstract: Microplastics are ubiquitous contaminants that could harm ecosystems. Wastewater contains microplastics and may lead to further contamination of the environment. This focus article presents a summary of current knowledge on microplastics in wastewater and possible solutions, suggesting current research needs.