Reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been found to play a vital role in the environment. Initially, ROS were considered solely as damaging agents in living organisms. However, recent research has revealed that they play a positive role in supporting basic cellular processes which are crucial for the human immune system. In this study, we investigated the potential of utilizing ROS to break down plastic waste. Microplastics from tire waste are used as model systems. The effects of irradiation and catalysts were examined over a period of 60-days and 14-days separately using different strategies. Results showed a significant increase in ROS due to the collective use of suitable irradiation source, catalysts, and dyes, which can largely accelerate the break-down of microplastics. Additionally, ROS-induced generation of more oxidative functional groups was observed, further enhancing the surface potential of the plastic waste. This study provides new insights into the effects of catalysts, solvents, and dyes on ROS formation by high-intensity irradiation and offers a potential solution for addressing microplastic pollution existing in the water system today.