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Separation and Identification of Conventional Microplastics from Farmland Soils
Published on: March 21, 2025
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Microplastic pollution in terrestrial ecosystems: Global implications and sustainable solutions
Aurang Zeb1, Weitao Liu1, Nouman Ali1
1MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China.
Journal of Hazardous Materials
|October 1, 2023
Summary
Microplastic (MPs) pollution is a growing global threat, impacting soil and plant health. This review explores MPs in terrestrial ecosystems, their environmental risks, and sustainable solutions for mitigation.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Ecotoxicology
- Polymer Science
Background:
- Microplastic (MP) pollution is a significant global environmental concern, with extensive research in aquatic systems but limited understanding of terrestrial impacts.
- MPs are ubiquitous, posing risks to ecosystems and human health through various pathways, including interactions with soil and plants.
- The environmental fate and effects of MPs are complex, influenced by factors like additives, aging processes, and co-contaminants.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive review of microplastic pollution in terrestrial ecosystems.
- To examine the sources, distribution, environmental implications, and aging mechanisms of MPs.
- To discuss current global legislation and propose sustainable solutions for MP pollution mitigation.
Main Methods:
- Literature review synthesizing existing research on terrestrial microplastic pollution.
- Analysis of studies on MP distribution, soil-plant interactions, and aging processes.
- Overview of legislative frameworks and proposed mitigation strategies.
Main Results:
- Microplastics are widespread in terrestrial environments, with potential adverse effects on soil structure, plant growth, and agricultural productivity.
- Photo and thermal aging significantly alter MP properties, influencing their environmental behavior and interactions.
- Existing legislation varies globally, highlighting the need for enhanced waste management and innovative solutions.
- Sustainable solutions include upstream approaches (bioplastics, improved waste management) and downstream methods (MP removal).
Conclusions:
- Terrestrial microplastic pollution requires urgent attention due to its widespread distribution and potential ecological risks.
- A holistic approach combining international collaboration, comprehensive legislation, and sustainable practices is essential for effective management.
- This review serves as a critical resource for researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders addressing this pervasive environmental challenge.
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