Evaluating the Impacts of Microplastic Pollution on Marine Sediment Geochemistry and Ecology

1. Introduction 2. Microplastics and Marine Environments 2.1. Definition and Sources of Microplastics 2.2. Distribution in Marine Ecosystems 2.3. Physical and Chemical Properties 3. Geochemical Impacts on Marine Sediments 3.1. Microplastic Interactions with Sediment Particles 3.2. Changes in Sediment Composition 3.3. Influence on Nutrient Cycling 4. Ecological Consequences for Marine Organisms 4.1. Impact on Benthic Fauna 4.2. Effects on Microbial Communities 4.3. Food Web Alterations 5. Case Studies and Regional Assessments 5.1. Comparative Analysis of Affected Regions 5.2. Longitudinal Studies in Specific Habitats 5.3. Impact Correlation with Human Activities 6. Methodological Approaches to Study Impacts 6.1. Sampling Techniques for Sediments 6.2. Analytical Methods for Microplastic Detection 6.3. Experimental and Modeling Approaches 7. Mitigation and Remediation Strategies 7.1. Reduction of Microplastic Sources 7.2. Sediment Cleaning Technologies 7.3. Policy and Regulatory Measures 8. Conclusions and Future Research Directions 8.1. Summary of Key Findings 8.2. Knowledge Gaps and Research Needs 8.3. Implications for Conservation and Management