The study examines how the increasing use of agricultural plastics (AP) could lead to the contamination of soils by microplastics (MP) and nanoplastics (NP). The primary concern is that APs, widely used to enhance crop yield and quality, degrade over time, breaking into smaller plastic fragments, including MPs and NPs. These particles, especially from mulching films, irrigation systems, and protective covers, pose a risk of contaminating our soils and potentially harming the environment, agricultural systems, and food security.
Key findings include:
– Degradation of plastics: most APs are used for only a single season and often degrade into MPs/NPs due to exposure to environmental factors, releasing micro- and nanoplastics into the soil.
– Sources of microplastics: MPs are generated both directly from the breakdown of APs and indirectly from other sources, such as compost, fertilizers, and wastewater. This contamination can persist in soil layers and contribute to long-term pollution.
– High-risk plastics: products like mulching films and polymer-coated fertilizers pose the highest risk. Mismanagement of these products post-use increases the potential for pollution.
– Environmental impact: soil pollution could impact soil health, crop quality, and even food safety.
Biodegradable plastics offer a potential solution, and better end-of-life management of the materials can prevent these pollutants from accumulating. However, challenges remain in scaling up sustainable alternatives and improving recycling practices.
This article serves as a wake-up call for policymakers, farmers, and the agriculture industry to take action. Reducing plastic waste and promoting circular economy principles could safeguard the future of food production and the environment.
Read the full study here: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0048969723031546