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Biodegradable Plastics in Soil: A ScientometricAnalysis of Their Status, Evolution,and Future Research Directions

Genes 2026
Menghao Yang, Meiling Jing, Shijun Chao

Summary

A scientometric analysis maps the evolution of biodegradable plastics research in soil contexts, identifying growing interest in degradation pathways, ecotoxicology, and policy implications over recent decades. Understanding how biodegradable plastics behave in soil is critical for assessing whether they offer a genuine alternative to conventional plastics or simply shift the nature of microplastic contamination.

Plastics owe their widespread adoption to features that render them suitable for many different uses [1].For example, their water resistance, sealing ability, and moldability make them ideal for food and beverage packaging [2].Moreover, their light weight and notable durability render them suitable for the production of manufacturing components in industry [3].In agriculture, plastics provide insulation, retain moisture, and suppress weeds, making them vital as crop-covering films that increase yield and quality.

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