Microplastics, a significant environmental concern, have become prevalent in freshwater ecosystems due to increased synthetic plastic production, population growth, and poor waste management. These microplastics, which range from 1×10⁻³ m to <5×10⁻³ m in size, are stable and can adsorb pollutants like pesticides and heavy metals. They can accumulate in the tissues of organisms, causing physical damage and potential health risks. The detection and identification of microplastics rely on methods such as visual identification, Raman spectroscopy, pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (Pyro-GC-MS), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The concentration of microplastics varies depending on sampling methods, locations, and identification techniques. The authors of this review article assess the sources, transport, impacts, identification, characterization, and treatment of microplastics in freshwater environments. They highlight the need for standardized methods for sampling, analysis, and quantification to address the growing issue of microplastic pollution. The review also discusses the role of microorganisms, marine organisms, and biodegradation in mitigating microplastic pollution. Recommendations include reducing single-use plastics, promoting recycling, and increasing public awareness about plastic pollution. The article concludes by emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive policies and management strategies to mitigate the impact of microplastics on aquatic ecosystems and human health. Standardizing ecological risk assessments and encouraging community participation, legislation, and biotechnological tools are crucial steps in addressing this environmental threat.Microplastics, a significant environmental concern, have become prevalent in freshwater ecosystems due to increased synthetic plastic production, population growth, and poor waste management. These microplastics, which range from 1×10⁻³ m to <5×10⁻³ m in size, are stable and can adsorb pollutants like pesticides and heavy metals. They can accumulate in the tissues of organisms, causing physical damage and potential health risks. The detection and identification of microplastics rely on methods such as visual identification, Raman spectroscopy, pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (Pyro-GC-MS), Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The concentration of microplastics varies depending on sampling methods, locations, and identification techniques. The authors of this review article assess the sources, transport, impacts, identification, characterization, and treatment of microplastics in freshwater environments. They highlight the need for standardized methods for sampling, analysis, and quantification to address the growing issue of microplastic pollution. The review also discusses the role of microorganisms, marine organisms, and biodegradation in mitigating microplastic pollution. Recommendations include reducing single-use plastics, promoting recycling, and increasing public awareness about plastic pollution. The article concludes by emphasizing the urgent need for comprehensive policies and management strategies to mitigate the impact of microplastics on aquatic ecosystems and human health. Standardizing ecological risk assessments and encouraging community participation, legislation, and biotechnological tools are crucial steps in addressing this environmental threat.