We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Microplastics from Agricultural Soils to Freshwaters: Pathways, Loads, and Controls
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers synthesized field surveys and modeling studies on microplastic transfer from agricultural soils to freshwaters, finding that while only a small fraction of soil MPs is exported during typical rain events, extreme storms and biosolid applications can generate fluxes rivaling other major emission pathways, with particle size, density, and shape strongly controlling mobilization.
Microplastics (MPs) have become ubiquitous contaminants in agricultural landscapes, where intensive farming practices introduce large quantities through plastic mulches, sewage sludge, wastewater irrigation, and other inputs. These soils act as both reservoirs and sources of MPs, with potential leakage into freshwater ecosystems. This review synthesizes recent advances in understanding the mechanisms governing MP transfer from farmland to aquatic systems, focusing on surface runoff, soil erosion, wind-driven transport, and vertical leaching. Field surveys and experimental studies consistently demonstrate that only a small percentage of the large MP inventory in soils is exported during typical rainfall events; however, extreme storms, erosion hotspots, and biosolid applications can generate significant fluxes at watershed and national scales. Modeled estimates suggest that annual MP exports from farmland runoff may rival other major emission pathways, underscoring the environmental relevance of diffuse agricultural sources. The mobilization of MPs is strongly modulated by particle characteristics (size, density, and shape), soil texture and structure, vegetation cover, rainfall intensity, irrigation practices, and biological activity, including earthworms and plant roots. The complex interplay of these factors highlights both the persistence of MPs in soils and their episodic release into rivers and lakes. Controversies remain regarding the relative importance of agriculture compared to urban and wastewater sources, as well as the long-term role of biodegradable plastics in reducing soil-to-water transfers. By integrating empirical data and modeling insights, this review clarifies the dual role of agricultural soils as sinks and diffuse sources of MPs, and identifies critical controls for mitigation strategies.
More Papers Like This
Understanding the overland transport of microplastics from agricultural soils to freshwater systems
AI summary Read the abstract
This study investigated how microplastics move from agricultural soils to freshwater systems through surface runoff. Researchers found that rainfall intensity, soil type, and particle characteristics all influenced how much plastic reached waterways. Understanding the overland transport pathway is important because agricultural soils are one of the largest reservoirs of microplastics in terrestrial environments.
Soil erosion as transport pathway of microplastic from agriculture soils to aquatic ecosystems
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers simulated heavy rainfall events on agricultural soils containing microplastics and tracked particle transport through runoff and erosion, finding that soil erosion is a significant pathway for moving agricultural microplastics into adjacent water bodies, with particle size and shape governing transport distance.
Soil erosion as pathway of microplastic transport from agricultural soils to inland waters
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers used rainfall simulations on agricultural plots to study how water erosion transports microplastics from soil to nearby water bodies. They found that microplastics were mobilized during erosion events and that both fine and coarse particles were transported, with transport rates varying by soil type and rainfall intensity. The study establishes soil erosion as a significant pathway for microplastic contamination of freshwater systems.
Processes controlling the transportation of microplastics in agricultural soils
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers investigated the physical processes controlling microplastic transport through agricultural soils, examining how soil structure, water flow, bioturbation, and particle properties interact to move microplastics from surface application sites deeper into the soil profile or laterally toward aquatic systems. The study addressed the dual role of agricultural soils as both sinks and potential sources of microplastic pollution to surrounding environments.
The transport of microplastic on agriculture soils via soil erosion
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers investigated the transport of microplastic particles from agricultural soils via water erosion, finding that lighter and smaller particles were preferentially mobilized and could travel significant distances. Soil erosion is an important but understudied pathway for redistributing microplastics from farm soils into streams and downstream environments.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.