This paper is the result of hydrogeological survey engineering.

Objective Microplastics (MPs) have emerged as a global pollutant, causing increasingly severe environmental problems. While most research has focused on surface water bodies such as oceans and rivers, studies on MPs in groundwater systems have been relatively limited.

Methods Based on extensive literature research and analysis, this paper examines the progress made in the study of MPs in groundwater. It explores the sources, detection methods, distribution characteristics, environmental risks and future trends of MPs in groundwater. The objective is to provide references for future research and facilitate risk prevention and control of MPs−contaminated groundwater.

Results MPs primarily enter groundwater through three pathways: surface water−groundwater interaction, soil infiltration, and direct injection. Currently, research on MPs in groundwater is primarily concentrated in coastal areas, particularly in China, Europe and North America. However, additional data and research are needed in regions such as South America, Africa and Oceania. The most common types of MPs found in groundwater are polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and polyethylene (PE), with fibers and debris being the predominant shapes. Groundwater contaminated with MPs poses environmental risks to soil and crop health, pollutant migration, human health, underground ecosystem, and the effectiveness of groundwater pollution remediation. Future research on MPs in groundwater should prioritize the establishment of standardized sampling and detection procedures, determination of spatial distribution characteristics, and exploration of key scientific issues influencing the migration and transformation mechanism.

Conclusions Numerous studies have been conducted on the sources, distribution characteristics, environmental risks and development trends of MPs in groundwater. However, current research is still in its early stage and is expected to continue growing due to the vital role groundwater plays in sustaining human activities and natural ecosystems. Management strategies for MPs pollution in groundwater should primarily focus on three aspects. Firstly, controlling the source by minimizing plastic waste production is crucial. Secondly, it is important to cut off migratory routes of MPs by implementing preventive measures in high−risk areas. Lastly, developing appropriate remediation technologies is essential for the end−removal of MPs from groundwater.