REVIEW PAPER
Microplastics in Polish Inland Waters: Current
Knowledge, Methodological Limitations,
and Research Needs
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1
Doctoral School, University of Bialystok, Ciołkowskiego 1K, 15-245 Białystok, Poland
2
Department of Hydrobiology, Faculty of Biology, University of Bialystok, Ciołkowskiego 1J, 15-245 Białystok, Poland
Submission date: 2025-08-06
Final revision date: 2025-10-01
Acceptance date: 2025-10-23
Online publication date: 2026-02-26
Corresponding author
Kamil Tarasewicz
Doctoral School, University of Bialystok, Ciołkowskiego 1K, 15-245 Białystok, Poland
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ABSTRACT
Microplastics (MPs) are an emerging contaminant of concern in aquatic ecosystems, yet knowledge
of their presence in Polish inland waters remains fragmented and limited. This review synthesizes
the current state of research on MPs contamination in rivers, lakes, and groundwater in Poland, based on
33 scientific publications. It compiles reported contamination levels in various environments, including
bottom sediments, wastewater, snow, tap water, and aquatic organisms, with a critical evaluation of the
methodological approaches employed. Reported MPs concentrations in water samples ranged from 0 to
280 MPs/L, whereas in sediments, concentrations reached up to 120,000 MPs/kg, with rivers generally
exhibiting higher contamination than lakes. Particular attention is given to sampling, extraction,
and identification methods, which substantially influence the comparability and reliability of results.
Furthermore, the review highlights key methodological gaps, such as the frequent reliance on visual
identification and the lack of standardization across studies. We also present current research trends
in Poland, identifying areas of growing interest and notable progress. These findings underscore
the urgent need for harmonized methodologies and the establishment of a nationwide monitoring system
to ensure robust assessment and management of MPs pollution in Poland’s inland waters.