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Plastics can be used more sustainably in agriculture
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Researchers reviewed how plastics used in farming — from mulch films to storage bins — are building up in soils worldwide, and mapped out practical strategies to curb the problem. They conclude that while plastics can't be fully replaced yet without harming food security, smarter use, better recycling, and biodegradable alternatives are essential steps forward.
Abstract Plastics have become an integral component in agricultural production as mulch films, nets, storage bins and in many other applications, but their widespread use has led to the accumulation of large quantities in soils. Rational use and reduction, collection, reuse, and innovative recycling are key measures to curb plastic pollution from agriculture. Plastics that cannot be collected after use must be biodegradable in an environmentally benign manner. Harmful plastic additives must be replaced with safer alternatives to reduce toxicity burdens and included in the ongoing negotiations surrounding the United Nations Plastics Treaty. Although full substitution of plastics is currently not possible without increasing the overall environmental footprint and jeopardizing food security, alternatives with smaller environmental impacts should be used and endorsed within a clear socio-economic framework. Better monitoring and reporting, technical innovation, education and training, and social and economic incentives are imperative to promote more sustainable use of plastics in agriculture.
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This review pulls together existing research on how tiny plastic particles (microplastics) are building up in farm soils—coming from sources like plastic mulch, wastewater, and sewage sludge used as fertilizer. These particles can harm soil microbes and disrupt nutrient cycles that crops depend on, which matters because it ties directly to our food supply and the plastic content of the food we eat. The authors note that scientists still need better tools to detect microplastics and stronger policies to clean up and prevent this pollution before it becomes a bigger problem for food security.
Microplastics in agriculture: Hidden soil contaminants, sustainability risks and policy pathways
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This review pulls together existing research showing that plastic farm equipment—like mulch films and coated fertilizers—breaks down over time into tiny plastic bits called microplastics that build up in soil. These particles can carry toxic metals, harmful chemicals, and antibiotic-resistant bacteria, potentially contaminating groundwater and working their way into our food supply, yet current regulations worldwide aren't strong enough to address the problem. While scientists are testing cleanup methods like special filters and soil-friendly bacteria, more action is needed to keep these contaminants out of the food we eat.
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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.