Review on plastic-derived chemical pollutants in estuarine ecosystems: Assessing the scale of microplastic contamination

The major source of synthetic additives in estuarine ecology is plastic contamination and its dispersion. Therefore, the plastic-related chemicals can be used as an indicator of microplastic pollution in various environmental niches. The persistence and accumulation characteristics of these chemicals enhance their transfer to water, sediment, and biotic materials. These chemicals are endocrine disruptors and mutagens that affect the next generation. Systematic scientific approaches are essential for the remedial measures and sustainable environmental management processes. Graphical Abstract