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Hazards Associated with Micro/Nano Plastics in Agricultural Soils
Summary
This review examines the hazards of micro- and nanoplastic contamination in agricultural soils, where plastics enter through mulching films, irrigation with contaminated water, and fertilizer application. The authors discuss how these particles can alter soil structure, affect microbial communities, and potentially transfer into crops that humans consume. The study highlights that agricultural soil contamination with microplastics is an underrecognized risk to both ecosystem health and food safety.
Microplastics (MPs) have been identified as one of the emerging contaminants posing risks to the environment as well as human health. However, research in this direction has progressed in the recent decade only. Being small in size and light in weight, these particles are ubiquitous in various environmental matrices; viz., water, air, and soil; and thus pose ecological as well as human health risks. Increasing plastic usage in agricultural practices in the form of packaging, mulching, etc. has introduced this contaminant in agricultural soil as well. Agriculture is one of the fundamental requirements for the sustenance of human lives. Considering the role of agriculture in human lives and the economy, it is of utmost importance to keep the quality of soil intact and free from any kind of pollutants. Nevertheless, the United Nations’ sustainable development goals (SDGs) also emphasize ending hunger, achieving food security, improving nutrition, and promoting sustainable agriculture. The microplastic particles, upon mixing with the soil, disturb the natural soil composition and properties. As plastic particles are carbon-rich polymers, these also have the potential to influence the carbon and nitrogen ratio of the soil affecting crop growth. Effects on crop growth and/or crop’s nutritional properties are expected to negatively affect human health as well. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to comprehend the presence of micro/nanoplastics (MNPs) in agricultural soil and its associated hazards.