Microplastic pollution in rice systems: Impacts, mechanisms and green remediation strategies

The pervasive contamination of agricultural soils by microplastics (MPs) poses a significant threat to food security, soil health, and environmental sustainability. Rice fields, due to their extensive irrigation and agrochemical inputs, are particularly vulnerable to plastic pollution. This review synthesizes current knowledge on the sources, distribution, and adverse impacts of MPs on rice systems, including soil physicochemical properties, microbial communities, plant health, and nutrient cycling. MPs disrupt soil physical properties and nutrient cycling, alter microbial community composition and enzymatic functions, impair root growth and photosynthesis, and reduce rice biomass and grain yield, highlighting both agronomic and ecological risks. Emphasis is placed on both preventive and control strategies for mitigating plastic pollution in rice soils. Preventive measures include the use of biodegradable polymers, waste segregation, and improved water filtration systems. Control and remediation approaches are systematically examined across five domains: phytoremediation and rhizodegradation, bioremediation by soil macrofauna and gut microbiota, microbial degradation via bacteria and fungi, algal-based depolymerization, and genetic and biotechnological interventions. The review highlights the potential of integrated biotechnological solutions, including synthetic biology and enzyme encapsulation, in enhancing the efficiency of plastic degradation. While promising in controlled environments, many biological approaches face practical challenges in field conditions. Therefore, future research must focus on developing scalable, field-ready solutions and fostering policy frameworks that promote sustainable plastic use and remediation in agroecosystems. This comprehensive evaluation offers a roadmap for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners aiming to mitigate plastic pollution in rice.