Mapping Global Microplastics Pollution Research (2014– 2024): A Bibliometric Analysis of Trends, Collaboration Networks, and Policy Gaps

Abstract

This study presents a bibliometric analysis of global research on microplastics pollution from 2014 to 2024 using Scopus data and VOSviewer, examining publication growth, key contributors, thematic developments, and international collaboration networks. Results show a sharp increase in output after 2019, reflecting heightened concern, with China leading in publications, authorship, and institutional contributions due to strong national agendas and research investment. Core research areas include marine and freshwater pollution, toxicity, and polymer analysis, while recent studies have expanded toward nanoplastics, soil contamination, wastewater treatment, and biodegradation, indicating a shift to more interdisciplinary inquiry. Despite this progress, research integrating governance and regulatory perspectives remains limited, highlighting a persistent knowledge–action divide. Co-authorship networks show strong national clustering but weaker global collaboration, with Southeast Asia and the Philippines notably underrepresented despite being major sources of marine plastic leakage. These gaps underscore the urgency of fostering broader international cooperation and collaboration among developing countries, strengthening ASEAN participation, and linking science with policy reforms, public health monitoring, economic assessments, and sustainability education. This study provides evidence across a decade of research, contributing to bridging the science–policy divide and supporting evidence-based decision-making in line with the Sustainable Development Goals and the forthcoming Global Plastics Treaty