Evidence on Potential Bioremediation of Microplastics from Soil Environment around the World

In the present state of environmental degradation of the world where plastic pollution has become a major concern, the resultant microplastic (MP) occurrence is a rapidly growing debate irrespective of geographical boundary or environmental compartments. Notwithstanding that soil is a principal sink of microplastic residues; unfortunately, it has remained almost unexplored compared to the aquatic environment. However, researchers in their quest for a ‘Green’ solution to this colossal issue have globally extensively worked on the bioremediation of MP from the soil environment. In the current study, we have unveiled that, bacteria, fungi, plants, biochar, earthworms, and even larvae of some species, are being used to advance the potential bioremediation technique for MPs. In this process, the MP polymers are broken down to innocuous monomers, like carbon-di-oxide, methane, water, and biomass by the action of a wide range of micro-organisms. Moreover, since the effectiveness of the method is sensitive to the different types of biotic-abiotic factors, the condition of the soil, MPs and the microorganisms involved; various optimization techniques, are being devised to improve the bioremediation process. Considering the advantages and necessity of bioremediation of MP from soil, it is imperative to conduct rigorous and comprehensive research work for more optimized MP bioremediation techniques; and to encourage it to be implemented largely in contaminated sites around the world.