Microplastics in Soil Systems: The Overlooked Dimension of Plastic Pollution

This literature reviews evaluate existing research on microplastics in soil systems, highlighting microplastics as an overlooked yet important dimension of global plastic pollution. Microplastics, defined as plastic particles smaller than 5mm, have emerged as a significant environmental pollutant with growing concern. They originate from the degradation of larger plastic waste or are manufactured as micro-sized particles. The literatures used in the study were selected through a structured search of several academic databases including Google Scholar, SpringerLink, Science Direct, PubMed, ScienceOpen, and Elsevier. Evidence indicates that microplastics are persistent in soil environments, capable of interacting with its components, leading to changes in its physical and chemical characteristics, structure, nutrient cycling, microbial diversity and enzyme activities, and potentially affecting plant growth and productivity. This review examines the major sources of soil microplastics, including agricultural practices, wastewater irrigation, sewage sludge application, atmospheric deposition and land-based litter fragmentation. The role of microplastics as vectors for antibiotics, heavy metals, and other toxic substances is also discussed, emphasizing possible implications for soil health, food security, and ecosystem balance. It also examines strategies for effective mitigation of microplastic contamination in soils. Addressing this underexplored dimension of plastic pollution is essential for maintaining soil quality, protecting ecosystems, and promoting environmental sustainability amid rising plastic production and use.