We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Ecological risk assessment framework for microplastics in agricultural soils amended with biosolids
Summary
This study proposes a framework for assessing the ecological risks of microplastics in agricultural soils that have been treated with biosolids from wastewater processing. Researchers highlight that risk depends not just on the amount of microplastics, but also on their size, shape, and type. The framework aims to give regulators and scientists a more structured way to evaluate and manage microplastic contamination in farmland.
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.