Topic: Plastic pollution in marine and freshwater biota

Over the past decade, several reports have documented the rising volume of plastic debris of various sizes (from macro- to nanoplastics) and chemical composition from extremely diversified environmental compartments (hydrosphere, lithosphere, atmosphere, biosphere). Due to increased public awareness of this growing problem, the scientific community is collecting data regarding the occurrence, distribution and transfer pathways of litter particles. However, there are scientific gaps that need to be filled regarding micro- and nanoplastic impacts on marine and freshwater biota. From rivers and brackish waters to the sea surface and deep sea, plastic occurrence, ecotoxicity, bioaccumulation/biomagnification and physico-chemical interactions with chemical and biological contaminants have clearly indicated the need to stimulate further research to preserve natural equilibria in aquatic ecosystems worldwide, including remote areas such as the Polar regions.

With its multidisciplinary perspective, this topic, “Plastic pollution in marine and freshwater biota”, will provide an update on plastic pollution and its consequences on aquatic ecosystems, with a particular focus on biological domains. Papers dealing with the origin, fate and effects of plastics in marine and freshwater environments, and their interactions with their biotic components, are welcome.

Important deadlines:

• Submission opens: 11 October 2021
• Submission closes: 30 June 2023
• Expected time to first decision: four weeks after submission
• Open access (OA) fee: Waived

Submission instructions:

Please read the Guide for Authors before submitting. All submissions should be made via the online editorial system.

Guest editors: