We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
Perspectives on ecological risks of microplastics and phthalate acid esters in crop production systems
AI summary Read the abstract
Microplastics and phthalate acid esters co-occur as soil contaminants from plastic mulching, fertilizers, and wastewater irrigation, with evidence that they interact to affect soil ecology and plant growth. Establishing standardized detection methods and assessing their combined risks throughout the food chain are urgent research priorities given widespread agricultural plastic use.
Microplastics (MPs) and phthalate acid esters (PAEs) co-occur as emerging contaminants of global importance. Their abundance in soil is of increasing concern as plastic-intensive practices continue. Mulching with plastic films, inclusion in fertilizers, composts, sludge application, and wastewater irrigation are all major and common sources of MPs and PAEs in soil. Here, we review studies on the concentration and effects of MPs and PAEs in soil. While there is limited research on the interactions between MPs and PAEs in agroecosystems, there is evidence to suggest they could mutually affect soil ecology and plant growth. Therefore, we propose new research into 1) establishing an efficient, accurate, and simple method to quantify different types of microplastics in soils and plants; 2) exploring the behavior and understanding the mechanisms of co-transfer, transformation, and interactions with soil biota (especially in vegetable production systems); 3) assessing the risk and consequences of combined and discreet impacts of MPs and PAEs on plants and soil biota, and 4) preventing or reducing the transfer of MPs and PAEs into- and within- the food chain.
More Papers Like This
Unravelling the emerging threats of microplastics to agroecosystems
AI summary Read the abstract
This review synthesizes evidence that microplastics accumulate in agricultural soils from multiple pathways, disrupting soil physical and chemical properties, shifting rhizosphere microbial communities, and potentially entering plants through water and nutrient uptake channels. Because most microplastic research has focused on aquatic systems, the effects of soil MP contamination on crop yield, food quality, and long-term agricultural sustainability remain critically underexplored.
Micro- and Nanoplastics: Impact on Crop Plants and Agricultural Practices
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers reviewed the growing contamination of agricultural soil and water by micro- and nanoplastics, finding that plastic debris disrupts soil structure, inhibits seed germination, reduces crop yields, and introduces toxic additives into the food production chain, with the COVID-19 pandemic accelerating plastic waste generation and agricultural exposure.
Ecological Impacts and Toxicity of Micro- and Nanoplastics in Agroecosystem
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers assessed the ecological impacts of micro- and nanoplastics in agricultural environments, finding that these sub-millimeter and sub-micron polymer fragments act as environmental pollutants that disrupt soil health and pose risks to plant and animal life in farming systems.
Advances in Physiological and Ecological Effects of Microplastic on Crop
AI summary Read the abstract
Researchers reviewed how microplastics accumulate in crops — entering through roots and leaves and reaching edible parts — and found they reduce germination, inhibit photosynthesis, and lower crop yields, raising concerns about plastic contamination in the food we eat.
Hazards of Microplastic Pollution in Agriculture
AI summary Read the abstract
This review examined the sources and hazards of microplastic pollution in agricultural settings, including plastic mulch degradation, sewage sludge application, and plastic packaging, and their effects on soil health and crop systems. Agricultural microplastic exposure is especially significant for human health because it creates a direct farm-to-table contamination pathway, with particles and leached chemicals potentially present in vegetables, grains, and livestock products.
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.