Summary
This narrative review positions microplastics research in Africa within the global landscape of terrestrial microplastics contamination, highlighting that African terrestrial ecosystems remain substantially understudied compared to aquatic systems and research from other regions. The authors identify critical knowledge gaps regarding microplastics contamination and its effects on African ecosystems, and propose a collaborative framework to strengthen research capacity through networks of African scientists and partnerships with established international research groups.
UK applicability
Whilst this paper focuses on African research capacity and terrestrial ecosystems, UK agricultural and environmental researchers may benefit from the proposed collaborative research framework model. The findings underscore the global nature of microplastics pollution and suggest methodological approaches that could inform UK soil and ecosystem monitoring programmes.
Key measures
Literature mapping of microplastics research coverage by region; identification of research gaps in African terrestrial ecosystems; proposed research network framework
Outcomes reported
The paper reviews the current state of microplastics research in African terrestrial ecosystems and identifies significant knowledge gaps. It proposes a framework for establishing collaborative research networks among African scientists and international institutional partnerships.
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