Tracing Micro(nano)plastics from Soil to Crop: The Evidence of Plastic Pollution in Agriculture

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This report investigates the impact of micro(nano)plastic pollution on crops and soil health, focusing on the Fraser Valley in British Columbia. It highlights how the increasing reliance on plastics has led to significant soil contamination, particularly in agroecosystems, where micro(nano)plastics (MNPs) can be introduced through various agricultural practices. The study emphasizes that MNPs can be absorbed by crops, potentially affecting their growth and contributing to food safety concerns. A systematic review of five crops—carrot, corn, lettuce, pea, and wheat—revealed multiple uptake pathways for MNPs, including apoplastic and symplastic routes, with notable phytotoxic effects such as oxidative stress and altered metabolic activity. The estimated presence of MNPs in soils ranges from approximately 760,000 to 4,370,000 particles per tonne, highlighting the need for more research on this emerging issue. The report concludes with recommendations for mitigating MNP pollution, including phytoremediation, standardization of research protocols, and the establishment of regulations, to inform decision-making and combat plastic contamination in agroecosystems.