MICRO AND NANO PLASTICS IN AGRICULTURAL SOILS

Abstract

Micro and nano plastics are global soil pollutants that poses potential threats to the ecosystem because of its extensive and possible threats to the ecological system. However, many aspects of microplastic in soil, such as its sources, distribution, and impacts, are still unclear. This is because of the challenges and limitations in measuring and studying microplastic in complex soil samples. In this review, the current knowledge on microplastic in soil was summarized, covering its fate and transport, detection, occurrence, characterization, source, and risk to soil and human. It also explores how MNPs interact with soil physical and chemical properties, their toxicity to soil biota, and the potential for MNPs to serve as vectors for pollutants and pathogens. Microplastic was found to be ubiquitous in soil matrices worldwide but here is a lack of adequate research on microplastic in soil, especially in Nigeria. Microplastic enters the soil from different sources and accumulates over time. Some studies suggest that microplastic may interact with other pollutants and affect soil quality and function, and even move along the food web. This review provides a comprehensive understanding of MNPs in agricultural soils useful to guide efforts in mitigating their adverse effects. It has been found that impacts of microplastic in soil depend on its shape, composition, and environmental factors. Several research gaps that need to be addressed were also identified.