MYCOLab Ai Logo - gold and army green

Editorial: Effects of microplastics on soil ecosystems

Summary

Tiny plastic particles called microplastics are accumulating in soil worldwide and causing problems for the microorganisms that keep soil healthy. This editorial reviews research showing that while newer biodegradable plastic mulches used in farming are better than traditional plastics, both types can weaken the complex networks of beneficial soil microbes. Scientists found bacteria that can break down some plastic chemicals, but long-term solutions require better monitoring and ways to manage plastic residues in agricultural soils.

Background

Microplastics (particles <5mm) are increasingly recognized as global environmental contaminants originating from synthetic fibers, personal care products, and plastic debris breakdown. They accumulate in soil and pose significant risks to ecosystems, plant growth, soil microbial communities, and potentially human health.

Objective

This editorial examines the effects of microplastics on soil ecosystems, particularly focusing on impacts to soil microbial communities, nutrient cycling, plant-microbe interactions, and agricultural productivity.

Results

Research shows microplastics alter soil microbial community composition and function. Biodegradable mulches (PBAT-PLA) outperform conventional PE mulch by improving crop yield and nitrogen cycling, while a bacterial strain Priestia megaterium P-7 efficiently degrades phthalate plasticizers. Both mulch types reduce microbial network stability.

Conclusion

Microplastic contamination complexity requires long-term field trials (>5 years), multi-crop studies, and chemo-omics analyses. Biodegradable mulches offer short-term agronomic benefits but both conventional and biodegradable residues compromise microbial stability, necessitating residue management and ecological monitoring.
  • Published in:Frontiers in Microbiology,
  • Study Type:Editorial/Review,
  • Source: PMID: 41059062, DOI: 10.3389/fmicb.2025.1686836
Scroll to Top