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An Overview: Awareness of Plastic Pollution Among Farmers
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This review pulls together existing research on why many farmers don't fully recognize the dangers of plastic pollution in their fields, especially from plastic mulch films used to cover soil. Older and less-educated farmers tended to be less aware of the risks, and cost concerns often stop them from switching to biodegradable alternatives. This matters because plastic left in soil breaks down into microplastics that can end up in our food and water supply, so better farmer education and government support for safer alternatives could help reduce our overall exposure.
The current review assessed awareness of plastic pollution among farmers.The methodological process of the study included several steps.Literature for the current study was collected using Google Scholar, Scopus, Web of Science, and Science Direct.During the search, the keywords "plastic," "soil," and "awareness" were used.Regarding socio-economic characteristics, Age was negatively correlated, meaning older farmers have lower environmental awareness and perceptions of agricultural mulch film pollution.In contrast, higher education among farmers showed a strong relationship with perceptions.The government should enhance farmers' education levels.Land area showed an insignificant relationship.Various socio-cultural barriers hinder awareness of plastic pollution among farmers.For example, low awareness of plastic pollution and environmental risks is often attributed to these barriers.This lack of awareness may result from insufficient training and knowledge, ineffective communication, lack of expertise, and difficulty in changing established habits.Low awareness and concerns about costs prevent farmers from transitioning from traditional to biodegradable plastics.Studies suggested that policymakers and relevant departments should promote integrated plastic waste management and biodegradable alternatives by engaging stakeholders, providing market incentives, offering training and educational programs, and delivering extension services.
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A survey of 310 crop farmers across 19 Indian regions found limited awareness of microplastic pollution in agriculture, with most farmers unaware that plastic mulch films and irrigation systems contribute to soil contamination — highlighting the need for farmer education to support microplastic mitigation.
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Plastic Mulch Films in Agriculture: Their Use, Environmental Problems, Recycling and Alternatives
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This review examines how plastic mulch films used in farming break down into microplastics and nanoplastics that contaminate soil, harm soil organisms, and can enter the human body through the food chain. While developed countries are making progress with recycling and biodegradable alternatives, the health effects of nanoplastics from agricultural plastic remain largely unknown. Better collection, recycling, and alternative materials are needed to reduce this growing source of plastic pollution.
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This review traces the history of plastic mulch films in agriculture, from their widespread adoption for moisture retention and weed control to growing concerns about soil contamination. Researchers found that while polyethylene mulch is highly effective, its accumulation in farmland creates long-term pollution and health risks. The study examines emerging biodegradable alternatives and new regulations aimed at reducing agricultural plastic waste.
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.