A recent study by the Papillons consortium investigates the effects of PBAT biodegradable microplastics on plant growth and defense mechanisms. Conducted with lettuce (lactuca sativa) in controlled conditions, the research highlights the environmental influence of biodegradable plastics in soils.
Here is what emerged from the research:
Growth impacts:
– At higher biodegradable microplastics concentrations, lettuce showed reduced shoot height, fewer leaves, and decreased nitrogen levels in leaves.
– While overall growth was not significantly stunted, high biodegradable microplastics levels (0.8%) caused noticeable deterioration in specific growth traits.
Biochemical responses:
– Lettuce exposed to biodegradable microplastics experienced oxidative stress, evidenced by increased lipid peroxidation (a marker of cell damage).
– Plants ramped up the production of antioxidants and stress-related compounds, such as salicylic acid, to combat damage, meaning that their defense mechanisms had been activated.
– Chlorophyll content decreased, potentially impairing photosynthesis under long-term or high-concentration exposure.
Resilience:
– Lower biodegradable microplastics concentrations triggered moderate stress, which plants managed effectively by activating defense pathways.
– At higher levels, however, the plant’s ability to maintain oxidative balance faltered, leading to reduced resilience.
This study shows that biodegradable plastics can accumulate in soil, subtly altering plant growth and health. Therefore, further research under real-world conditions and with diverse crop species is needed to better understand long-term implications of these materials on agricultural soils.
Read the full study here: https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0269749124020244?via%3Dihub