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Biodegradable Plastics in Soil: A ScientometricAnalysis of Their Status, Evolution,and Future Research Directions
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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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Resource or waste? A perspective of plastics degradation in soil with a focus on end-of-life options
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This review compiles existing data on plastic degradation in soil and explores post-consumer plastic reuse options, organized by resin type. It identifies a major gap in standardized indicators and methods for quantifying plastic degradation in terrestrial environments and calls for more research to support evidence-based land management policy.
On the quest for novel bio-degradable plastics for agricultural field mulching
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This review examined the challenge of developing biodegradable plastic mulch materials suitable for agricultural use, noting that plasticulture consumes about 6.7 million tons of plastic annually, most of which cannot be practically recycled. The authors assessed candidate biodegradable polymers based on their degradation rates in soil, mechanical performance, and cost.
Unravelling the ecological ramifications of biodegradable microplastics in soil environment: A systematic review
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Researchers reviewed 85 studies on biodegradable microplastics in soil, finding that when biodegradable plastics fail to fully break down they can disrupt soil structure, nutrient cycling, and microbial life in ways that depend heavily on concentration and plastic type. The review highlights that "biodegradable" plastics are not a simple fix for microplastic pollution in agricultural soils.
Macro and microplastics in agricultural soils after use of conventional and biodegradable plastics
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Researchers sampled 38 agricultural fields where conventional polyethylene mulching films, polypropylene weed fabrics, biodegradable PBAT films, and frost covers had been used, quantifying macro- and microplastic contamination in soils to assess how different agricultural plastic products contribute to soil plastic pollution.
Effect and environmental behaviour of microplastics in soil
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This bibliometric analysis and review covers research on microplastic environmental behavior in soils from 2012 to 2022, documenting rapid growth in publications and identifying key research themes including transport, persistence, and interactions with soil biota and chemicals. The review highlights remaining knowledge gaps and emerging trends in the field of soil microplastic pollution.
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