Ecological risk assessment framework for microplastics in agricultural soils amended with biosolids

This study conceptualizes a framework for ecological risk assessment of microplastics (MPs) in agricultural soils amended with biosolids. MPs in biosolids pose risks to soil biota, affecting soil health. The study highlights the complexity of assessing MP risks, considering not only MPs abundance, but also properties such as size, shape, and type. To develop this framework for ecological risk assessment of MPs in agricultural soils amended with biosolids, a literature review was conducted to systematically assess effects of different MPs properties on soil organisms. Earthworms, springtails, and the microbiome were considered as receptors. The study highlights the importance of understanding MPs fate in soil, since effects on soil biota can be time dependent. Furthermore, results show that organisms respond differently to similar MPs properties, increasing the complexity of assessing MPs risks in terrestrial ecosystems. This complexity also relates to MPs effects on soil properties, and indirect effects on soil biota. Further research is needed to address knowledge gaps for effects of specific MPs properties to better assess and manage ecological risks in agricultural systems.