NETmicroplastic in agricultural soil and its impact on soil properties

Implementing “soil health” means sustainable management of agricultural soils, avoiding toxicities, and sensible use of resources to minimize waste. In this context, the use of plastic in agriculture in form of plastic products, the application of polymers and additives in fertilizers, and plastic input through littering and tyre wear demands our special attention. Uncertainty and open questions relating to effects of plastic and its degradation products such as microplastic (MP) on the soil environment, the soil biota, and human health partly result from the lack of robust and standardized detection and measurement methods. Also, environmental, economic, and societal problems around MPs in soil cannot be adequately addressed due to lack of coordination among the various relevant players and initiatives in research and policy. NETmicroplastic (www.net-microplastic.eu) responds to the need of connecting among a fragmented research & innovation and policy landscape by creating a community-supported environment. The network fosters provision of solid data for science-based impact assessment of MP in soil together with much-needed technological innovations, including biodegradable alternatives to conventional plastic. Here, we reflect upon a number of action fields that are key to the NETmicroplastic initiative from small to large-scale perspectives. In addition, we portray the overall awareness situation around MP in soil.