Microplastic pollution in Taihu Lake was studied to understand its distribution and impact on the environment. Researchers found that microplastics were more concentrated near the lake inlet compared to the center, and more abundant on the surface than in the water column. Small-sized microplastics were more prevalent in the bottom water. Polyamide and polyvinyl chloride were the main types of microplastics found, likely originating from clothes washing and industrial activities. The risk of microplastics in surface water was higher than in the water column, with PVC and polyurethane posing the greatest ecological risk. This study highlights the need to prioritize controlling PVC and PU to reduce microplastic pollution in Taihu Lake.