As the call to ban plastic microbeads from cosmetics grows, Plastics and the Environment casts a timely light over the societal usage and potential environmental impact of plastics. Written by leading experts, this book provides a scientifically informed overview of the key issues surrounding the topic, from discussions on marine litter, to the impact on wildlife and human exposure. Aimed at policy makers, students, environmental scientists and thinkers, it is an important review that will bring the reader right up-to-date.