Impact of Microplastics on Soil's Biodiversity and Public Health

Microplastic pollution has gained recognition as a pervasive environmental issue, with recent attention extending to its impact on soil ecosystems and potential implications for public health. This chapter reviews current research findings on the impact of microplastics on soil biodiversity and explores the pathways through which these minute particles may pose risks to human health. The study evaluates the mechanisms by which microplastics influence soil-dwelling organisms, including microorganisms, invertebrates, and plants. It investigates the potential for microplastics to alter soil physicochemical properties, disrupt nutrient cycling, and affect the overall biodiversity of terrestrial ecosystems. Special attention is given to the transfer of microplastics within the soil food web and their accumulation in edible crops, highlighting potential exposure routes for humans. In examining the nexus between soil health and public well-being, the abstract also addresses the challenges associated with assessing and quantifying microplastics in soil matrices. The urgent need for standardized methodologies and comprehensive risk assessments is underscored, aiming to bridge current knowledge gaps and inform evidence-based policies for mitigating the impact of microplastics on soil ecosystems and human health.