We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Optimizing microplastic pollution in a terrestrial environment: a case for soil-biodegradable mulches
AI summary Read the abstract
This paper develops an economic model to analyze when and why farmers would choose to adopt biodegradable plastic mulches over conventional polyethylene mulches, given that biodegradable options reduce long-term soil plastic accumulation but cost more upfront. The model finds that policies like higher landfill disposal fees and corrective taxes can tip the economic balance toward adoption of biodegradable alternatives. The study is notable as the first dynamic economic framework for addressing agricultural microplastic pollution, offering policymakers concrete tools to reduce plastic contamination of farmland soils.
Abstract Microplastic pollution from plastic fragments accumulating in agricultural fields threatens the world’s most productive soils and environmental sustainability. This is the first paper to address the challenge of developing a dynamic economic model to analyze the adoption of soil-biodegradable plastic mulches (BDMs) as a sustainable alternative to conventional polyethylene mulches. The model considers the trade-off between BDM degradation rates and agricultural production, seeking to balance the cost of BDMs and the cost of waste disposal. We consider both private and social perspectives under deterministic and stochastic environments. Our findings suggest that BDMs can significantly decrease long-term plastic pollution from single-use plastics in agriculture. For example, increasing landfill tipping fees incentivizes Washington State tomato growers to optimally adopt BDMs with a 61% degradation rate and to till used BDMs into the soil, reducing plastic waste accumulation in landfills. The study highlights the role of economic incentives, such as landfill fees, corrective taxes and the role of risk aversion, in promoting BDM adoption and curbing plastic pollution. The framework presented here offers valuable insights for policymakers and stakeholders seeking to foster sustainable agricultural practices and mitigate global plastic pollution.
More Papers Like This
Unveiling Key Factors in Determining Biodegradable Mulching Film Adoption Through Evolutionary Game Analysis.
AI summary Read the abstract
Farmers mostly stick with regular plastic mulch film (which helps crops grow but leaves behind plastic residue in soil) instead of switching to biodegradable versions, mainly because biodegradable options cost more and their performance is less predictable. This research found specific tipping points—like closing the price gap or improving crop yields—that could make farmers switch, which matters because reducing plastic residue in farm soil means less plastic breaking down into microplastics that can end up in our food and water supply. Smart government policies, like taxing traditional plastic film or improving biodegradable alternatives, could help make this shift happen faster.
Is mulch film itself the primary source of meso- and microplastics in the mulching cultivated soil? A preliminary field study with econometric methods
AI summary Read the abstract
A field study examined whether mulch films were the primary source of meso- and microplastics in mulched agricultural soils using econometric methods to compare plastic-mulched and non-mulched fields, finding that while mulch contributed to soil plastic loads, it was not the sole source. The study challenges the assumption that plastic mulch is always the dominant microplastic source in farmed soils.
Plastic mulching in agriculture. Trading short-term agronomic benefits for long-term soil degradation?
AI summary Read the abstract
This study examined plastic mulch use in agriculture, arguing that short-term crop benefits come with long-term costs as mulch fragments accumulate in soil as microplastics and disrupt soil structure, biology, and water dynamics.
Potentials of synthetic biodegradable mulch for improved livelihoods on smallholder farmers: a systematic review
AI summary Read the abstract
This systematic review evaluates biodegradable mulch as an alternative to conventional plastic mulch in farming, which is a major source of microplastic contamination in agricultural soils. Switching to biodegradable options could help reduce the buildup of microplastics in the soil where food crops are grown.
Environmental impacts and challenges of biodegradable plastic mulches in agricultural soils
AI summary Read the abstract
This review paper summarizes existing research comparing plastic farm mulches, which break down into microplastics over time, with biodegradable alternatives. It examines the benefits, costs, and environmental impacts of biodegradable mulches, noting that challenges remain, including high production costs and limited manufacturing capacity, before wider use is possible.
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.