The diversity of polymers and the versatility of their properties have transformed our everyday life. While their widespread use and disposable aspects was anticipated, some of the recent reports associated with the extent of nano/microplastics environmental pollution was not anticipated. Presence of microplastics in treated tap and bottled water have raised concerns about the impact that microplastics in drinking-water might have on human health and aquatic well-being. We present an overview of monitoring and management of nano/microplastics and plastics in the environment to appropriately assess risks associated with human health, including several key knowledge gaps, to implement appropriate management actions. Addressing issue related to mitigating microplastics using nanotechnologies offers a wide range of solutions. We present methods that include identification of microplastics and mitigation strategies that include hydrogels, catalytic decomposition, nanofibers and preparing biodegradable and bio-based polymers. Hydrogels are materials consisting of a permanent, three-dimensional network of hydrophilic polymers and water filling the space between the polymer chains with applications in diverse fields ranging from bio-medical applications and stimuli sensitive systems for agricultural, personal care, environmental, and industrial applications. Using 3D printing technology, we have developed composite structures to capture polymers, large chain hydrocarbons, including pharmaceuticals. Although, the investigation is in its preliminary stages, we anticipate using meta-materials as catalysts to detect and capture organic materials, volatile organic compounds, as an extension of our work on capturing pharmaceuticals. Since, hydrogel composites contain cellulose fibrils derived from wood, response to environment is likely to produce bio-mimicking to external stimuli. Additional anticipated methods range from separation of micro-plastics and specialized polymers used by the healthcare industries. However, to reap benefits of plastics while keeping pollution to a minimum, it is critical to identify specific uses that offer clear advantages and to refine national and international standards and associated product labelling to indicate appropriate usage and appropriate disposal methods.