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Degradable microplastics induce more soil organic carbon loss via priming effects: a viewpoint
Summary
This viewpoint argues that degradable microplastics, despite being marketed as eco-friendly, may paradoxically accelerate soil organic carbon loss by triggering priming effects that stimulate microbial activity consuming native soil carbon stocks. This finding complicates assumptions about biodegradable plastics as a safe alternative, with implications for soil health, food security, and the long-term carbon cycle.
As a substitute for traditional plastics, degradable plastics produced from plant materials may be a potential supplement to soil organic carbon (SOC) due to equal treatment by soil microorganisms with plant residues. However, the degradable microplastics may simultaneously raise SOC loss via the priming effects due to their high microbial availability and strong nitrogen deficiency. Therefore, this double-edged sword effect needs to be further clarified for a better understanding of the feedback relationship between the spiralling degradable microplastics and soil carbon pools.