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Implications of plastic pollution on global carbon cycle
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This review examines how plastic pollution disrupts the global carbon cycle through the production of fossil-fuel-based plastics, the release of carbon during plastic degradation, and the leaching of chemical additives into the environment. Microplastics and nanoplastics from degrading plastic waste affect carbon cycling in both soil and water ecosystems. The findings highlight that plastic pollution is not just a waste problem but also contributes to climate-related disruptions that ultimately affect human well-being.
Abstract Plastic pollution represents a critical global issue. Massive plastic waste in the environment poses significant threats to ecosystems and human health while also negatively impacting carbon cycles through multiple pathways. In particular, the global carbon cycle is disrupted by the carbon budget imbalance, primarily due to the excessive production of fossil-based plastics in past years. Meanwhile, microplastics and nanoplastics resulting from the degradation and fragmentation of plastic waste in the environment also have significant implications for the carbon cycle within both terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. Furthermore, the leaching of plastic additives from plastics not only contributes organic carbon to the environment but also poses significant adverse effects on the growth and development of various organisms. Therefore, developing innovative and comprehensive strategies to mitigate plastic pollution is imperative. This initiative should involve the development of effective policies and the application of advanced technologies, including strategies to close both the plastic loop and the carbon loop. Graphical Abstract
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This review examines how microplastics and nanoplastics are disrupting the global carbon cycle, the natural process that moves carbon through the environment. Microplastics interfere with the microorganisms that help convert and store carbon, and they reduce the ability of oceans and coastal ecosystems to absorb carbon dioxide. These disruptions could worsen climate change, which in turn affects food production and human well-being.
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This review examines how the plastic life cycle — from fossil fuel extraction through manufacturing to disposal — generates substantial greenhouse gas emissions, while environmental microplastics disrupt ecosystems and reduce ocean carbon sequestration, creating a bidirectional link between plastic pollution and climate change.
Microplastic effects on carbon cycling processes in soils
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Researchers reviewed how microplastics affect carbon cycling processes in soils, including their influence on microbial activity, plant growth, and litter decomposition. Since microplastics are themselves carbon-based materials, they can directly alter soil carbon stocks while also indirectly shifting microbial communities. The study calls for a major research effort to understand the widespread effects of microplastics on soil functioning and terrestrial ecosystem health.
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This review examines how microplastics disrupt carbon cycling in wetlands, which are critical ecosystems for capturing and storing carbon that would otherwise contribute to climate change. Microplastics can damage plant roots, alter soil microbial communities, and accelerate the breakdown of stored organic carbon, leading to increased greenhouse gas emissions. The findings highlight that microplastic pollution may undermine wetlands' ability to help regulate the climate.
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When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.