Plasticultura en México: Impactos Ambientales y Desafíos para la Sostenibilidad

Plasticulture has transformed Mexican horticulture, with over 45,000 hectares under protected agriculture in northern and central states. However, the inadequate management of agricultural plastic waste—mulches, greenhouse covers, and irrigation systems—has emerged as a growing environmental problem due to its contribution to microplastic pollution in soils. The objective of this study was to critically analyze the scientific evidence on the adverse effects of plasticulture in Mexico, with an emphasis on microplastic generation, its soil impacts, and the regulatory challenges to sustainability. A systematic review was conducted on environmental and ecological impact aspects, as well as the management of plastic waste generated by plasticulture in Mexico. International evidence shows that microplastics alter soil properties, reduce photosynthesis in crops by up to 12%, and are transferred through food chains. For Mexico, critical gaps have been identified: the absence of a national inventory of agricultural plastic waste and the lack of specific regulations. The installed recycling capacity covers less than 1% of the estimated annual waste generation. It is concluded that it is urgent to create a monitoring system, develop regulations based on a circular economy, promote biodegradable alternatives, and establish extended producer responsibility.