This book offers a timely and comprehensive exploration of the microplastics crisis, tracking their journey from production to pollution and dissecting their profound impacts on ecosystems and human health.
Dr. Rey Y. Capangpangan is a distinguished Professor (Professor VI) of Chemistry and Vice Chancellor for Research, Innovation, and Global Engagement at Mindanao State University at Naawan, widely recognized for his leadership and scholarly contributions in environmental nanotechnology, materials science, and microplastics research. He earned his Ph.D. in Chemistry from National Tsing Hua University, Taiwan, grounding his work in strong international scientific training. With an extensive portfolio of high-impact publications, funded research projects, and international collaborations, his work advances innovative solutions in environmental monitoring, nanomaterial synthesis, and sustainability, particularly addressing emerging challenges such as microplastic pollution and resource recovery. A recipient of numerous national and international awards, including excellence in research and leadership distinctions, Dr. Capangpangan has also played a pivotal role in shaping research ecosystems through his directorship of the Center for Microplastic Research and Innovation and REY Labs. His contributions extend beyond research to academic mentorship, policy-relevant science, and global scientific engagement, positioning him as a leading voice in bridging cutting-edge nanoscience with environmental stewardship and sustainable development. Prof. Arnold C. Alguno is a distinguished materials scientist and research leader with over two decades of interdisciplinary expertise in semiconductor physics, nanotechnology, and advanced functional materials. Currently serving as Director of Research Management and Professor VI at Mindanao State University-Iligan Institute of Technology, he has built an exceptional scholarly record with more than 150 Scopus-indexed publications and multiple internationally published books with leading academic presses, including Springer and CRC Press. Trained in Japan at Tohoku University, his work spans cutting-edge developments in sensor technologies, AI-integrated materials, and sustainable energy systems, reflecting both technical depth and global engagement. His career includes key national and international roles, such as previously serving on the Physics Technical Panel of Commission on Higher Education and as Philippine focal person to the ASEAN Sub-Committee on Materials Science and Technology. Recognized through prestigious awards and fellowships, Prof. Alguno continues to shape transformative research and innovation ecosystems, positioning his work at the forefront of materials science and its applications to emerging environmental and technological challenges.
