Exploring the Impact of Micro-plastics on Soil Health and Ecosystem Dynamics: A Comprehensive Review

Pratikshya Paudel; Rajneesh Kumar; Manoj Kumar Pandey; Prateek Paudel; Mamata Subedi

doi:10.18006/2024.12(2).163.174

Authors

Pratikshya Paudel Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, School of Agriculture, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India
Rajneesh Kumar Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, School of Agriculture, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India https://orcid.org/0009-0000-1799-2163
Manoj Kumar Pandey Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, School of Agriculture, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India https://orcid.org/0009-0000-1799-2163
Prateek Paudel Forest Research Institute (Dimmed to be University), POIPE, Dehradun- 248195, India
Mamata Subedi Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, School of Agriculture, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.18006/2024.12(2).163.174

Keywords:

Microplastic, Bulk Density, Soil Biota, Intricate, Holistic, Multifaceted

Abstract

Microplastics, defined as particles measuring less than 5 mm, have emerged as widespread environmental pollutants, prompting concerns regarding their impact on soil ecosystems. This review investigates microplastics' presence, movement, and effects on soil health and ecosystem dynamics while highlighting their diverse sources, including industrial production and the breakdown of larger plastic materials. Despite their ubiquity, a significant gap exists in our understanding of the consequences of microplastics in terrestrial ecosystems, particularly within soils. The findings of this review article revealed that microplastics exert notable influences on soil properties, altering bulk density, aggregation, and water-holding capacity, which may have significant implications for soil biota and plant vitality. Furthermore, microplastics also carry toxic substances, complicating their environmental impact. The effects on soil microorganisms and soil-dwelling fauna, such as earthworms, underscore the intricate relationships within soil ecosystems. Additionally, microplastics can interact with other soil pollutants, potentially amplifying their adverse effects. The long-term impacts of microplastics on soil health remain uncertain, underscoring the imperative for sustained research endeavours. Challenges persist, including the absence of standardized methodologies for microplastic extraction and identification in soils, which hampers our ability to understand their presence and effects comprehensively. Furthermore, the lack of regulatory frameworks complicates managing and mitigating microplastic pollution. Future research should adopt a holistic approach, considering diverse microplastic types and applications. Both field and laboratory experiments are essential for accurately capturing the varied influences of microplastics. Efforts should concentrate on understanding the occurrence of microplastics, developing reliable detection methods, and exploring their interactions with other pollutants, especially in terrestrial ecosystems. In conclusion, mitigating microplastic pollution requires multifaceted strategies informed by ongoing research efforts and public awareness campaigns. We can effectively address the challenges posed by microplastic contamination in soil ecosystems through concerted action and comprehensive understanding.

Author Biography

Rajneesh Kumar, Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, School of Agriculture, Lovely Professional University, Phagwara 144411, Punjab, India

Division of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Faculty of Agriculture (FoA), Sher-e-Kashmir University of Agricultural Sciences and Technology (SKUAST–K), Wadura- 193201, J & K, India

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