This review article, authored by Lisbeth Van Cauwenberghe, Lisa Devriese, Francois Galgani, Johan Robbens, and Colin R. Janssen, provides an in-depth analysis of the current state of microplastic research in marine sediments. The authors aim to evaluate extraction techniques, discuss the occurrence and distribution of microplastics worldwide, and assess their potential adverse effects on marine organisms. Over 100 articles from the past 50 years are reviewed, highlighting the need for standardized techniques, unified reporting units, and more realistic effect assessments. The review covers the evolution of microplastic research, the challenges in sampling and extraction techniques, and the global distribution of microplastics in sediments. It also discusses the direct and indirect effects of microplastics on benthic and sediment-associated wildlife, including ingestion, translocation, and the potential for chemical and bacterial threats. The authors conclude that while significant progress has been made, further research is needed to fully understand the environmental risks associated with microplastics.This review article, authored by Lisbeth Van Cauwenberghe, Lisa Devriese, Francois Galgani, Johan Robbens, and Colin R. Janssen, provides an in-depth analysis of the current state of microplastic research in marine sediments. The authors aim to evaluate extraction techniques, discuss the occurrence and distribution of microplastics worldwide, and assess their potential adverse effects on marine organisms. Over 100 articles from the past 50 years are reviewed, highlighting the need for standardized techniques, unified reporting units, and more realistic effect assessments. The review covers the evolution of microplastic research, the challenges in sampling and extraction techniques, and the global distribution of microplastics in sediments. It also discusses the direct and indirect effects of microplastics on benthic and sediment-associated wildlife, including ingestion, translocation, and the potential for chemical and bacterial threats. The authors conclude that while significant progress has been made, further research is needed to fully understand the environmental risks associated with microplastics.