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Phytotoxic effects of plastic pollution in crops: what is the size of the problem?
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This review examines the phytotoxic effects of nano- and microplastics on crop species, summarizing research conducted since the field emerged in 2016. Researchers found that plastic particles can damage plant tissues through both direct and indirect mechanisms, and that nanoplastics can enter plant cells and accumulate in edible organs. The study notes that contradictory results across studies make it difficult to draw firm conclusions, pointing to the need for more standardized research approaches.
Plastic pollution is one of the most impactful human interferences in our planet. Fragmentation of plastic leads to nano- and microplastics (NP/MP) formation, which accumulate in agricultural lands, representing an increasing risk for crop production and food safety. It has been shown that MP promote damage in plant tissues by several direct and indirect ways, and that NP can enter the tissues/cells and accumulate in edible organs. Investigation of the phytotoxic effects of NP/MP in plants started only in 2016, with most of the studies performed with crops. Since contradictory results are often observed, it is important to review the literature in order to identify robust effects and their possible mechanisms. In this review, we discuss the potential of NP/MP in damaging crop species, with focus on the physiological changes described in the literature. We also performed scientometrics analyses on research papers in this field during 2016-2021, to reveal the research situation of phytotoxic effects of plastic pollution in crops. Our review is as a starting point to help identify gaps and future directions in this important, emerging field.
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Microplastic/nanoplastic toxicity in plants: an imminent concern
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This review examines the growing body of research on how microplastics and nanoplastics affect terrestrial plants, from root uptake to changes in growth and gene expression. Researchers found that these particles can alter plant physiology and biochemistry at varying degrees depending on particle size and concentration. The study calls for more research on how plastic contamination in soil may ultimately affect food crop quality and human health through the food chain.
Micro- and nanoplastics-induced stress in plants: uptake, physiological disruption, and toxicity mechanisms
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This review paper summarizes existing research on how tiny plastic particles (called microplastics and nanoplastics) are absorbed by plants and damage their health. These plastic particles can build up in plant tissues and disrupt how plants grow and function, which matters because we eat these plants. Since plastic pollution keeps breaking down into smaller pieces that plants absorb, this could eventually affect the safety and quality of our food supply.
Micro and nanoplastics pollution: Sources, distribution, uptake in plants, toxicological effects, and innovative remediation strategies for environmental sustainability
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This review examines how microplastics and nanoplastics enter plants through roots, disrupt growth and photosynthesis, and cause oxidative stress that reduces crop yields. Because these plastic particles can move through plant tissues and into edible parts, they represent a potential pathway for microplastics to enter the human food supply.
Impacts of Micro/Nanoplastics on Crop Physiology and Soil Ecosystems: A Review
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This review synthesized evidence on how micro- and nanoplastics affect crop physiology and soil ecosystems, covering how plastic particles enter plants via roots, disrupt soil microbiota, and impair crop growth through oxidative stress, nutrient cycling disruption, and physical root interference. The authors found that nanoplastics pose greater plant risks than microplastics due to their ability to cross cell membranes.
Microplastics in Crop Systems
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This chapter reviews the uptake, translocation, and phytotoxic effects of micro- and nanoplastics in crop systems, synthesizing evidence on how particle size, polymer type, and concentration affect plant growth, nutrient uptake, and food safety.
Research digests by email
When a large batch of papers lands in the Atlas, we read through it and send a short write-up of what stood out.