Summary
Wang et al. (2021) present a comprehensive narrative review of microplastics as an emerging soil contaminant, synthesising evidence on their mechanisms of action affecting soil structure and biological function. The authors document widespread global contamination but emphasise substantial uncertainties as of 2021 regarding quantitative dose–response relationships between microplastic burden, soil processes, and agronomic or human health outcomes. The review identifies a critical need for long-term field studies, standardised measurement protocols, and clarification of exposure pathways to food crops.
Regional applicability
The findings are globally relevant, as microplastics contamination is an international issue affecting soils in multiple countries including the United Kingdom. However, as a narrative review without region-specific primary data, direct applicability to UK soil management and agricultural policy depends on complementary site-specific or UK-focused empirical research.
Key measures
Microplastic burden in soil; effects on soil structure, porosity, water retention, and microbial communities; evidence of contamination pathways to food crops
Outcomes reported
The review synthesised evidence on mechanisms by which microplastics affect soil structure, biological function, and agronomic processes. The authors documented the extent of global soil microplastic contamination and identified critical knowledge gaps regarding dose–response relationships and human health exposure pathways.
Topic tags
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