Microplastics in Irrigation Systems: A Growing Threat to Agriculture Soil and Crop Plant

Abstract

One area of growing concern was the presence of microplastics (MPs) in agricultural irrigation systems, where they entered and affected soil quality and plant health. This study evaluated the impact of MPs on soil quality and plant growth through a comprehensive analysis of existing literature, focusing on studies that examined MPs in irrigation water, including their identification, occurrence, and environmental impacts on agricultural systems. MPs in agricultural irrigation systems are transported by water, deposited in the soil, trapped in sediments, or infiltrated deeper soil layers, interacting with soil chemicals and increasing environmental toxicity risks. Additionally, MPs in irrigation water disrupted soil physical properties by reducing porosity and aggregate stability, while altering nutrient cycling processes, including carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus dynamics. Moreover, MPs negatively affected microbial communities and soil fauna, further compromising soil fertility. These disturbances significantly hinder soil productivity and plant health, suggesting the urgent need for mitigation strategies. The uptake and translocation of MPs by crops impaired plant growth, reduced photosynthetic efficiency, and induced oxidative stress. This study highlights the potential long-term risks of MPs contamination, emphasizing the threat to agricultural sustainability. Consequently, MPs in irrigation systems posed significant risks to soil health and agricultural productivity, underscoring the importance of addressing this emerging environmental issue to ensure sustainable agricultural practices.