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Micro- and nanoplastics in agricultural soils: Assessing impacts and navigating mitigation
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This review summarizes how tiny plastic particles from plastic mulch films and treated sewage end up in farm soil, where they can harm soil health, change how water moves through dirt, and interfere with plant growth. Because these plastics can be absorbed by crops, there is a potential pathway for microplastics to reach humans through the food we eat.
Micro-/nanoplastic contamination in agricultural soils raises concerns on agroecosystems and poses potential health risks. Some of agricultural soils have received significant amounts of micro-/nanoplastics (MNPs) through plastic mulch film and biosolid applications. However, a comprehensive understanding of the MNP impacts on soils and plants remains elusive. The interaction between soil particles and MNPs is an extremely complex issue due to the different properties and heterogeneity of soils and the diverse characteristics of MNPs. Moreover, MNPs are a class of relatively new anthropogenic pollutants that may negatively affect plants and food. Herein, we presented a comprehensive review of the impacts of MNPs on the properties of soil and the growth of plants. We also discussed different strategies for mitigating or eliminating MNP contamination. Moreover, perspectives for future research on MNP contamination in the agricultural soils are also highlighted.
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Microplastics in agricultural soils: sources, soil–plant interactions, ecotoxicological effects and food security concerns
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This review pulls together existing research on how tiny plastic bits get into farm soil, through mulch, wastewater, and even air, and shows they can harm soil health and be absorbed by crops. Since plants can carry these particles into the parts we eat, this raises real questions about microplastics entering our food supply and affecting human health, though more long-term studies are needed to know the full impact.
Microplastics in agricultural soils, their sources, environmental impacts, ecological risks, and mitigation strategies
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Tiny plastic bits are building up in farm soil from sources like plastic mulch, sewage-based fertilizers, and irrigation water, and this review of existing research shows they can mess with soil's ability to hold water and nutrients while also acting as hitchhikers for heavy metals, pesticides, and harmful germs. Since this soil grows our food, contaminated farmland could mean these pollutants—and the microplastics themselves—end up on our plates. The good news: solutions like biodegradable farm materials, natural soil additives, and better monitoring could help curb the problem if adopted widely.
Microplastics and nanoplastics in soil: Sources, impacts, and solutions for soil health and environmental sustainability
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This review examines how microplastics and nanoplastics enter soil through farming activities, sewage sludge, and air deposition, and how they affect soil structure, water retention, and nutrient availability. The tiny plastic particles can harm beneficial soil microorganisms and potentially enter the food chain through crops, raising concerns about long-term impacts on both soil health and human well-being.
Microplastics in agricultural soils: sources, impacts, and mitigation strategies
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This review summarizes how microplastics enter agricultural soils through wastewater irrigation, plastic mulch breakdown, and atmospheric deposition, where they alter soil structure, microbial communities, and water retention. The particles can also carry heavy metals and organic pollutants into the food chain, threatening both crop productivity and human health, making it important to reduce plastic use in farming and improve waste management.
Micro and nano plastics (MNPs) in agricultural soils: challenges for food security and environmental health
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This review examined how micro- and nanoplastics enter agricultural soils through sources like plastic mulch, wastewater irrigation, and sewage sludge, reaching concentrations of up to 10,000 particles per kilogram. The study found that these plastics impair plant nutrient absorption, photosynthesis, and growth, while also carrying toxic pollutants that can transfer through the food chain to humans.
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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.