Effects of microplastics on soil environment and land plant growth: a review

Microplastics represent an emerging category of long-lasting environmental contaminants that exhibit detrimental impacts not only on marine ecosystems but also demonstrate extensive distribution within terrestrial environments. Currently, soil contamination by microplastics has become a pressing ecological issue, yet scientific investigations focusing on phytological systems remain comparatively limited when contrasted with environmental studies of soil matrices. These synthetic particulates exert dual-phase influences on vegetation development through both direct phytotoxic impacts and indirect mediation via modifying soil physicochemical characteristics. Following their translocation into terrestrial systems and progressive bioaccumulation within plant tissues, microplastics may undergo trophic transfer through food chains, ultimately posing potential health risks to human populations. This review systematically examines contemporary research progress regarding microplastic interactions with pedospheric environments, botanical organisms, and co-existing contaminants, with particular emphasis on their ecological implications for soil functionality and vascular plant physiology. Prospective research directions are outlined to establish theoretical foundations for subsequent investigations concerning microplastic biogeochemical cycles and their ecotoxicological consequences in terrestrial ecosystems.