MICROPLASTICS AND CLIMATE CHANGE IN AFRICA

Abstract

This review examines the dual threats of microplastic pollution and climate change on African marine ecosystems, synthesizing current knowledge to assess their sources, impacts, and synergistic effects. Microplastics, pervasive due to inadequate waste management and rapid urbanization, infiltrate marine environments, adsorbing toxins and disrupting biodiversity, while climate change exacerbates their distribution and toxicity through rising temperatures and extreme weather. The study revealed that despite Africa contributing 7.8% of the global riverine plastics, research remains fragmented, with only 22.9% of African countries studied, and inconsistent methodologies and policy frameworks often lack the integration of climate adaptation and pollution mitigation. Case studies from Rwanda, Ghana, and South Africa highlight successful mitigation strategies, including regulatory frameworks, recycling initiatives, and bioremediation. Key recommendations include advancing research on microplastics–climate interactions, hybrid policies, AI-enhanced monitoring, strengthening waste management infrastructure, fostering regional collaboration, and prioritizing innovative circular economy approaches to safeguard marine biodiversity and ecosystem services. Addressing these challenges requires urgent, coordinated action to mitigate compounding risks and ensure sustainable marine conservation in Africa.