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Microplastics persist in an arable soil but do not affect soil microbial biomass, enzyme activities, and crop yield.

Authors :
Schöpfer, Lion
Möller, Julia N.
Steiner, Thomas
Schnepf, Uwe
Marhan, Sven
Resch, Julia
Bayha, Ansilla
Löder, Martin G. J.
Freitag, Ruth
Brümmer, Franz
Laforsch, Christian
Streck, Thilo
Forberger, Jens
Kranert, Martin
Kandeler, Ellen
Pagel, Holger
Source :
Journal of Plant Nutrition & Soil Science; Dec2022, Vol. 185 Issue 6, p836-849, 14p
Publication Year :
2022

Abstract

Background: Microplastics (MP, plastic particles <5 mm) are ubiquitous in arable soils due to significant inputs via organic fertilizers, sewage sludges, and plastic mulches. However, knowledge of typical MP loadings, their fate, and ecological impacts on arable soils is limited. Aims: We studied (1) MP background concentrations, (2) the fate of added conventional and biodegradable MP, and (3) effects of MP in combination with organic fertilizers on microbial abundance and activity associated with carbon (C) cycling, and crop yields in an arable soil. Methods: On a conventionally managed soil (Luvisol, silt loam), we arranged plots in a randomized complete block design with the following MP treatments (none, low‐density polyethylene [LDPE], a blend of poly(lactic acid) and poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) [PLA/PBAT]) and organic fertilizers (none, compost, digestate). We added 20 kg MP ha–1 and 10 t organic fertilizers ha–1. We measured concentrations of MP in the soil, microbiological indicators of C cycling (microbial biomass and enzyme activities), and crop yields over 1.5 years. Results: Background concentration of MP in the top 10 cm was 296 ± 110 (mean ± standard error) particles <0.5 mm per kg soil, with polypropylene, polystyrene, and polyethylene as the main polymers. Added LDPE and PLA/PBAT particles showed no changes in number and particle size over time. MP did not affect the soil microbiological indicators of C cycling or crop yields. Conclusions: Numerous MP occur in arable soils, suggesting diffuse MP entry into soils. In addition to conventional MP, biodegradable MP may persist under field conditions. However, MP at current concentrations are not expected to affect C turnover and crop yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Details

Language :
English
ISSN :
14368730
Volume :
185
Issue :
6
Database :
Complementary Index
Journal :
Journal of Plant Nutrition & Soil Science
Publication Type :
Academic Journal
Accession number :
160718947
Full Text :
https://doi.org/10.1002/jpln.202200062