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Ye Q, Wu Y, Liu W, Ma X, He D, Wang Y, Li J, Wu W. Identification and quantification of nanoplastics in different crops using pyrolysis gas chromatography-mass spectrometry. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 354:141689. [PMID: 38492677 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.141689] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2024] [Revised: 02/20/2024] [Accepted: 03/11/2024] [Indexed: 03/18/2024]
Abstract
Quantitative studies of nanoplastics (NPs) abundance on agricultural crops are crucial for understanding the environmental impact and potential health risks of NPs. However, the actual extent of NP contamination in different crops remains unclear, and therefore insufficient quantitative data are available for adequate exposure assessments. Herein, a method with nitric acid digestion, multiple organic extraction combined with pyrolysis gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (Py-GC/MS) quantification was used to determine the chemical composition and mass concentration of NPs in different crops (cowpea, flowering cabbage, rutabagas, and chieh-qua). Recoveries of 74.2-109.3% were obtained for different NPs in standard products (N = 6, RSD <9.6%). The limit of detection (LOD) and the limit of quantitation (LOQ) were 0.02-0.5 μg and 0.06-1.5 μg, respectively. The detection method for NPs exhibited good external calibration curves and linearity with 0.99. The results showed that poly (vinylchloride) (PVC), poly (ethylene terephthalate) (PET), polyethylene (PE), and polyadiohexylenediamine (PA66) NPs could be detected in crop samples, although the accumulation levels associated with the various crops varied significantly. PVC (N.D.-954.3 mg kg-1, dry weight (DW)) and PE (101.3-462.9 mg kg-1, DW) NPs were the dominant components in the samples of all four crop species, while high levels of PET (414.3-1430.1 mg kg-1, DW) NPs were detected in cowpea samples. Furthermore, there were notable differences in the accumulation levels of various edible crop parts, such as stems (60.2%) > leaves (39.8%) in flowering cabbage samples and peas (58.8%) > pods (41.2%) in cowpea samples. This study revealed the actual extent of NP contamination in different types of crops and provided crucial reference data for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quanyun Ye
- South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Guangzhou, 510655, China; Guangdong Engineering & Technology Research Center for System Control of Livestock and Poultry Breeding Pollution, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Yingxin Wu
- South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Guangzhou, 510655, China; Guangdong Engineering & Technology Research Center for System Control of Livestock and Poultry Breeding Pollution, Guangzhou, 510655, China.
| | - Wangrong Liu
- South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Guangzhou, 510655, China; Guangdong Engineering & Technology Research Center for System Control of Livestock and Poultry Breeding Pollution, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Xiaorui Ma
- South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Guangzhou, 510655, China; Guangdong Engineering & Technology Research Center for System Control of Livestock and Poultry Breeding Pollution, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Dechun He
- South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Guangzhou, 510655, China; Guangdong Engineering & Technology Research Center for System Control of Livestock and Poultry Breeding Pollution, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Yuntao Wang
- South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Guangzhou, 510655, China; Guangdong Engineering & Technology Research Center for System Control of Livestock and Poultry Breeding Pollution, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Junfei Li
- South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Guangzhou, 510655, China; Guangdong Engineering & Technology Research Center for System Control of Livestock and Poultry Breeding Pollution, Guangzhou, 510655, China
| | - Wencheng Wu
- South China Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Guangzhou, 510655, China; Guangdong Engineering & Technology Research Center for System Control of Livestock and Poultry Breeding Pollution, Guangzhou, 510655, China.
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Liava V, Golia EE. Effect of microplastics used in agronomic practices on agricultural soil properties and plant functions: Potential contribution to the circular economy of rural areas. WASTE MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH : THE JOURNAL OF THE INTERNATIONAL SOLID WASTES AND PUBLIC CLEANSING ASSOCIATION, ISWA 2024:734242X241234234. [PMID: 38520089 DOI: 10.1177/0734242x241234234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 03/25/2024]
Abstract
The extensive use of plastic materials and their improper disposal results in high amounts of plastic waste in the environment. Aging of plastics leads to their breakdown into smaller particles, such as microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics. This research investigates plastics used in agricultural practices as they contribute to MP pollution in agricultural soils. The distribution and characteristics of MPs in agricultural soils were evaluated. In addition, the effect of MPs on soil properties, the relationship between MPs and metals in soil, the effect of MPs on the fate of pesticides in agricultural soils and the influence of MPs on plant growth were analysed, discussing legume, cereal and vegetable crops. Finally, a brief description of the main methods of chemical analysis and identification of MPs is presented. This study will contribute to a better understanding of MPs in agricultural soils and their effect on the soil-plant system. The changes induced by MPs in soil parameters can lead to potential benefits as it is possible to increase the availability of micronutrients and reduce plant uptake of toxic elements. Furthermore, although plastic pollution remains an emerging threat to soil ecosystems, their presence may result in benefits to agricultural soils, highlighting the principles of the circular economy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Vasiliki Liava
- Faculty of Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Environment, Soil Science Laboratory, School of Agriculture, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
- Department of Agriculture Crop Production and Rural Environment, University of Thessaly, Volos, Greece
| | - Evangelia E Golia
- Faculty of Agriculture, Forestry and Natural Environment, Soil Science Laboratory, School of Agriculture, Aristotle University of Thessaloniki, Thessaloniki, Greece
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Wang QY, Wang QR, Wang TY, Zhang SQ, Yu HW. Impacts of polypropylene microplastics on the distribution of cadmium, enzyme activities, and bacterial community in black soil at the aggregate level. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 917:170541. [PMID: 38290684 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170541] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/16/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/27/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) can co-occur widely with heavy metals in soil. This study intended to investigate the influences of the co-exposure of polyethylene MPs (0.5 %, w/w) and cadmium (Cd) in black soil on the Cd distribution, enzyme activities, and bacterial communities in both bulk soil and different sized soil aggregates (> 1, 0.50-1, 0.25-0.50, and < 0.25 mm aggregates) after a 90-day incubation. Our results showed that the existence of MPs increased the distributions of Cd in >1 mm and < 0.25 mm soil aggregates and decreased its distributions in 0.50-1 mm and 0.25-0.50 mm soil aggregates. About 12.15 %-17.65 % and 9.03 %-11.13 % of Cd were distributed in the exchangeable and oxidizable forms in bulk soil and various sized soil aggregates after the addition of MPs which were higher than those in the only Cd-treated soil (11.17 %-14.72 % and 8.66 %-10.43 %, respectively), while opposite tendency was found for Cd in the reducible form. Urease and β-glucosidase activities in the Cd-treated soils were 1.14-1.18 and 1.07-1.31 times higher than those in the Cd-MPs treated soils. MPs disturbed soil bacterial community at phylum level and increased the bacteria richness in bulk soil. The levels of predicted functional genes which are linked to the biodegradation and metabolism of exogenous substances and soil C and N cycles were altered by the co-exposure of Cd and MPs. The findings of this study could help deepen our knowledge about the responses of soil properties, especially microbial community, to the co-occurrence of MPs and heavy metals in soil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Quan-Ying Wang
- Key Laboratory of Wet Ecology and Environment, State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130102, China.
| | - Qi-Rong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Wet Ecology and Environment, State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130102, China
| | - Tian-Ye Wang
- Key Laboratory of Wet Ecology and Environment, State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130102, China.
| | - Shao-Qing Zhang
- Key Laboratory of Wet Ecology and Environment, State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130102, China.
| | - Hong-Wen Yu
- Key Laboratory of Wet Ecology and Environment, State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun 130102, China.
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54
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He B, Liu Z, Wang X, Li M, Lin X, Xiao Q, Hu J. Dosage and exposure time effects of two micro(nono)plastics on arbuscular mycorrhizal fungal diversity in two farmland soils planted with pepper (Capsicum annuum L.). THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 917:170216. [PMID: 38278273 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170216] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/14/2024] [Indexed: 01/28/2024]
Abstract
As emerging environmental pollutants, micro(nano)plastics (MPs) like polyethylene terephthalate (PET) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE) have adverse effects on terrestrial biota and ecosystem function. However, the performance and roles of soil arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi in MPs-contaminated vegetable fields are poorly understood. Thus, a 120-day pot experiment was conducted to test the impacts of two input levels of either PET (~13 μm) or LDPE (~500 nm) on AM fungal diversity and pepper (Capsicum annuum L.) growth in two farmland soils collected from Nanjing (NJ) and Chongqing (CQ), respectively. In the vast majority of cases, 1 % rather than 0.1 % of both MPs greatly decreased the observed richness, Shannon and Simpson's indices, and Pielou's evenness of AM fungi, and decreased mycorrhizal colonization, root and shoot biomasses, fruit yield, and leaf superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and catalase activities of pepper, while increased leaf malondialdehyde content. From day 40 to 120, the inhibition of either diversity or vitality of AM fungi by 1 % and 0.1 % of MPs gradually increased and weakened, respectively. Compared with PET, LDPE with substantially smaller particle size was more toxic to mycorrhization at day 40, but no longer at day 120. Almost all plant parameters significantly correlated to mycorrhizal colonization, which significantly correlated to both Shannon and Simpson's indices of AM fungi, and soil pH, available P and K concentrations, and alkaline phosphatase activity. All diversity indices of AM fungi clearly negatively correlated to soil pH from 4.4 to 5.6 for the NJ soil and from 5.3 to 6.5 for the CQ soil, and also positively to mineral N and negatively to available P concentrations for the NJ and CQ soils, respectively. Thus, the study emphasized that high input of MPs significantly inhibited soil AM fungal diversity and vitality and thereby vegetable growth via changing soil pH and major nutrient availability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baiping He
- State Key Laboratory of Soil and Sustainable Agriculture, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China; School of Biology, Food and Environment, Hefei University, Hefei 230601, China
| | - Zihao Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Soil and Sustainable Agriculture, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Xin Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Soil and Sustainable Agriculture, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Minghui Li
- State Key Laboratory of Soil and Sustainable Agriculture, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Xiangui Lin
- State Key Laboratory of Soil and Sustainable Agriculture, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Qingqing Xiao
- School of Biology, Food and Environment, Hefei University, Hefei 230601, China.
| | - Junli Hu
- State Key Laboratory of Soil and Sustainable Agriculture, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China.
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55
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Noman MA, Adyel TM, Trevathan-Tackett S, Macreadie PI. Plastic Paradox in Blue Carbon Ecosystems. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:4469-4475. [PMID: 38409667 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c08717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/28/2024]
Abstract
Plastics are rapidly accumulating in blue carbon ecosystems, i.e., mangrove forests, tidal marshes, and seagrass meadows. Accumulated plastic is diverted from the ocean, but the extent and nature of impacts on blue carbon ecosystem processes, including carbon sequestration, are poorly known. Here, we explore the potential positive and negative consequences of plastic accumulation in blue carbon ecosystems. We highlight the effects of plastic accumulation on organic carbon stocks and sediment biogeochemistry through microbial metabolism. The notion of beneficial plastic accumulation in blue carbon ecosystems is controversial, yet considering the alternative impacts of plastics on oceanic and aboveground environments, this may be the "lesser of evils". Using environmental life cycle impact assessment, we propose a research framework to address the potential positive and negative impacts of plastic accumulation in blue carbon ecosystems. Considering the multifaceted benefits, we prioritize expanding and managing blue carbon ecosystems, which may help with ecosystem conservation, as well as mitigating the negative effects of plastic.
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Affiliation(s)
- Md Abu Noman
- Centre for Marine Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria 3125, Australia
| | - Tanveer M Adyel
- Centre for Marine Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria 3125, Australia
- Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM), University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes Campus, Mawson Lakes, South Australia 5095, Australia
| | - Stacey Trevathan-Tackett
- Centre for Marine Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria 3125, Australia
| | - Peter I Macreadie
- Centre for Marine Science, School of Life and Environmental Sciences, Deakin University, Melbourne, Victoria 3125, Australia
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56
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Wang W, Zhang Z, Gao J, Wu H. The impacts of microplastics on the cycling of carbon and nitrogen in terrestrial soil ecosystems: Progress and prospects. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 915:169977. [PMID: 38215847 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.169977] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/15/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/05/2024] [Indexed: 01/14/2024]
Abstract
As contaminants of emerging concern, microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitously present in almost all environmental compartments of the earth, with terrestrial soil ecosystems as the major sink for these contaminants. The accumulation of MPs in the soil can trigger a wide range of effects on soil physical, chemical, and microbial properties, which may in turn cause alterations in the biogeochemical processes of some key elements, such as carbon and nitrogen. Until recently, the effects of MPs on the cycling of carbon and nitrogen in terrestrial soil ecosystems have yet to be fully understood, which necessitates a review to summarize the current research progress and propose suggestions for future studies. The presence of MPs can affect the contents and forms of soil carbon and nitrogen nutrients (e.g., total and dissolved organic carbon, dissolved organic nitrogen, NH4+-N, and NO3--N) and the emissions of CH4, CO2, and N2O by altering soil microbial communities, functional gene expressions, and enzyme activities. Exposure to MPs can also affect plant growth and physiological processes, consequently influencing carbon fixation and nitrogen uptake. Specific effects of MPs on carbon and nitrogen cycling and the associated microbial parameters can vary considerably with MP properties (e.g., dose, polymer type, size, shape, and aging status) and soil types, while the mechanisms of interaction between MPs and soil microbes remain unclear. More comprehensive studies are needed to narrow the current knowledge gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenfeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 4888 Shengbei Street, Changchun 130012, China; Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 4888 Shengbei Street, Changchun 130012, China
| | - Zhiyu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 4888 Shengbei Street, Changchun 130012, China; Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 4888 Shengbei Street, Changchun 130012, China; Jilin Normal University, 1301 Haifeng Street, Siping 136000, China
| | - Jie Gao
- State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 4888 Shengbei Street, Changchun 130012, China; Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 4888 Shengbei Street, Changchun 130012, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Haitao Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 4888 Shengbei Street, Changchun 130012, China; Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 4888 Shengbei Street, Changchun 130012, China.
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57
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Fang Z, Sallach JB, Hodson ME. Size- and concentration-dependent effects of microplastics on soil aggregate formation and properties. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133395. [PMID: 38218032 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133395] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/06/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/26/2023] [Indexed: 01/15/2024]
Abstract
Plastics fragment and threaten soil ecosystems. Degradation of soil structure is one of the risks. Despite this, data on impacts of different sized microplastics (MPs) on soil aggregates is lacking. This study systematically investigated the effects of pristine polyethylene powders of different sizes (< 35, < 125, < 500 µm) and concentrations (0, 0.1, 1.0, 10 wt%) on aggregate formation and their properties for two contrasting soils (woodland soil, WS; agricultural soil, AS). 75 day wet-dry cycles produced newly-formed aggregates in all treatments. MP size and concentration impacted the incorporation of MPs in aggregates and this varied with aggregate size; the size distribution of aggregates also varied with MP size and concentration. Aggregates produced in soil containing 10 wt% < 35 µm MPs had significantly lower MWDs (mean weight diameters) than controls. The wettability of aggregates (> 4 mm) reduced with increasing MP exposure concentration and decreasing MP exposure size. MP incorporation decreased the water stability of aggregates (1-2 mm) in WS but increased it in AS. The particle density of aggregates (> 4 mm) significantly decreased with increasing MP concentration, whereas MP size had no effect. As MPs breakdown, fragment and become smaller over time, their potential risk to the aggregated structure of soil increases.
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Affiliation(s)
- Z Fang
- Department of Environment and Geography, University of York, York YO10 5NG, United Kingdom.
| | - J B Sallach
- Department of Environment and Geography, University of York, York YO10 5NG, United Kingdom
| | - M E Hodson
- Department of Environment and Geography, University of York, York YO10 5NG, United Kingdom
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58
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Li Z, Song Z, Qiu L, Cao Y, Gu H, Wang Z, Liu X, Qian X. Quantitative distribution and quantized ecological threat of microplastics in farmland: Shanghai as an example. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133069. [PMID: 38056264 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133069] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/23/2023] [Revised: 11/08/2023] [Accepted: 11/21/2023] [Indexed: 12/08/2023]
Abstract
The occurrence of microplastics (MPs) in farmlands poses a threat to soil health and crop yield. There needs to be more research on the role of cropping patterns in the accumulation of MPs and quantizing the threat of MPs on soil health and crop yield. In this study, a field study was carried out to explore the role of cropping patterns in the accumulation of MPs in agricultural soil in Shanghai, China. Furthermore, the specific effect and importance of MPs and each soil physicochemical indicator to soil health and crop yield were clarified, and the threat of MPs in reducing soil health and crop yield was quantized. Relative lower MPs abundance was detected in Shanghai. MPs abundance in vegetable fields was significantly higher than that in orchards. The broad source of MPs, the acceleration of plastics breaking under artificial disturbance and warmer temperatures, and the block of MPs exchange could account for the quicker accumulation of MPs in vegetable fields. MPs have a negligible effect on microbial diversity and metabolic activity which plays a role in soil enzyme activity. Besides, MPs served as one of the critical factors for rice yield reduction.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhengwen Li
- Shanghai Academy of Environmental Sciences, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Zhaofeng Song
- Shanghai Academy of Environmental Sciences, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Linlin Qiu
- School of Resources·&·Environmental-Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Yan Cao
- Shanghai Academy of Environmental Sciences, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Hairong Gu
- Shanghai Academy of Environmental Sciences, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Zhenqi Wang
- Shanghai Academy of Environmental Sciences, Shanghai, 200233, China
| | - Xiang Liu
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Fudan University, Shanghai 200438, China
| | - Xiaoyong Qian
- Shanghai Academy of Environmental Sciences, Shanghai, 200233, China.
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59
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Xie G, Hou Q, Li L, Xu Y, Liu S, She X. Co-exposure of microplastics and polychlorinated biphenyls strongly influenced the cycling processes of typical biogenic elements in anoxic soil. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133277. [PMID: 38141308 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133277] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/03/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023]
Abstract
The co-exposure of microplastics (MPs) and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in soil is inevitable, but their combined effect on cycles of typical biogenic elements (e.g. C, N, Fe, S) is still unclear. And the co-exposure of MPs and PCBs caused more severe effects than single exposure to pollution. Therefore, in this study, a 255-day anaerobic incubation experiment was conducted by adding polyethylene microplastics (PE MPs, including 30 ± 10 μm and 500 μm) and PCB138. The presence of PE MPs inhibited the PCB138 degradation. Also, PE MPs addition (1%, w/w) enhanced the methanogenesis, Fe(Ⅲ) reduction, and sulfate reduction while inhibited nitrate reduction and the biodegradation of PCB138. And PCB138 addition (10 mg·kg-1) promoted the methanogenesis and Fe(Ⅲ) reduction, but inhibited sulfate reduction and nitrate reduction. Strikingly, the presence of PE MPs significantly reduced the impact of PCB138 on the soil redox processes. The abundance changes of special microbial communities, including Anaeromyxobate, Geobacter, Bacillus, Desulfitobacterium, Thermodesulfovibrio, Metanobacterium, etc., were consistent with the changes in soil redox processes, revealing that the effect of PE MPs and/or PCB138 on the cycle of typical biogenic elements was mainly achieved by altering the functional microorganisms. This study improves the knowledge of studies on the impact of MPs and combined organic pollutants to soil redox processes, which is greatly important to the stabilization and balance of biogeochemical cycling in ecology.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangxue Xie
- College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Qian Hou
- College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Lianzhen Li
- College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Yan Xu
- College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China
| | - Shaochong Liu
- College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China.
| | - Xilin She
- College of Environmental Sciences and Engineering, Qingdao University, Qingdao 266071, China.
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60
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Hu M, Huang Y, Liu L, Ren L, Li C, Yang R, Zhang Y. The effects of Micro/Nano-plastics exposure on plants and their toxic mechanisms: A review from multi-omics perspectives. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133279. [PMID: 38141304 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133279] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 12/05/2023] [Accepted: 12/13/2023] [Indexed: 12/25/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, plastic pollution has become a global environmental problem, posing a potential threat to agricultural ecosystems and human health, and may further exacerbate global food security problems. Studies have revealed that exposure to micro/nano-plastics (MPs/NPs) might cause various aspects of physiological toxicities, including plant biomass reduction, intracellular oxidative stress burst, photosynthesis inhibition, water and nutrient absorption reduction, cellular and genotoxicity, seed germination retardation, and that the effects were closely related to MP/NP properties (type, particle size, functional groups), exposure concentration, exposure duration and plant characteristics (species, tissue, growth stage). Based on a brief review of the physiological toxicity of MPs/NPs to plant growth, this paper comprehensively reviews the potential molecular mechanism of MPs/NPs on plant growth from perspectives of multi-omics, including transcriptome, metabolome, proteome and microbiome, thus to reveal the role of MPs/NPs in plant transcriptional regulation, metabolic pathway reprogramming, protein translational and post-translational modification, as well as rhizosphere microbial remodeling at multiple levels. Meanwhile, this paper also provides prospects for future research, and clarifies the future research directions and the technologies adopted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Mangu Hu
- College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Yongxiang Huang
- College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Lin Liu
- College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China; Vegetable Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510640, China
| | - Lei Ren
- College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China
| | - Chengyong Li
- School of Chemistry and Environment, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China; Shenzhen Institute of Guangdong Ocean University, Shenzhen 518108, China
| | - Rongchao Yang
- College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China.
| | - Yueqin Zhang
- College of Coastal Agricultural Sciences, Guangdong Ocean University, Zhanjiang 524088, China.
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Wang Y, Tang L, Chen J, Joseph A, Wu Y, Rene ER, Tang J, Zhu N, Wang P. Susceptibility of Cd availability in microplastics contaminated paddy soil: Influence of ferric minerals and sulfate reduction. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133343. [PMID: 38147753 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133343] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/14/2023] [Revised: 12/19/2023] [Accepted: 12/20/2023] [Indexed: 12/28/2023]
Abstract
The combined contamination of cadmium (Cd) and microplastics (MPs) in paddy soil always occurred, while its influence on Cd availability remained unclear. This study investigated the Cd availability in Cd-MPs co-contaminated paddy soil in consideration of both ferric minerals and sulfate reduction under flooding conditions. The presence of MPs resulted in a higher Cd releasing risk, as represented by the increase in the available Cd and decrease in Fe-Mn oxide-bound Cd contents, especially on the 7th and 14th days based on the sequential extraction results. MPs facilitated the formation of Fe-organic ligands, which accelerated the reductive dissolution of iron minerals but decreased the amounts of amorphous iron minerals due to the release of dissolved organic substances into pore water. Furthermore, MPs promoted the relative abundance of sulfate-reducing bacteria (such as Streptomyces and Desulfovibrio genera), thus increasing the contents of reductive S species, which was advantageous to the co-precipitation of Fe, S, and Cd on the surface of MPs based on our experimental and statistical results. Taken together, both iron and sulfate reduction under anaerobic conditions played a critical role in Cd mobilization in Cd-MPs co-contaminated paddy fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yimin Wang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lake of Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
| | - Li Tang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lake of Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
| | - Juan Chen
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lake of Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
| | - Akaninyene Joseph
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lake of Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China; Department of Biosciences and Biotechnology, Faculty of Science, University of Medical Sciences, Ondo City 351101, Nigeria
| | - Yunjin Wu
- Nanjing Institute of Environmental Sciences, Ministry of Ecology and Environment, Nanjing 210042, China
| | - Eldon R Rene
- Department of Water Supply, Sanitation and Environmental Engineering, IHE Delft Institute for Water Education, Westvest 7, 2611AX Delft, the Netherlands
| | - Jun Tang
- Institute of Soil Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 71 East Beijing Road, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Ningyuan Zhu
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lake of Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China; Institute of Soil Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 71 East Beijing Road, Nanjing 210008, China.
| | - Peifang Wang
- Key Laboratory of Integrated Regulation and Resource Development on Shallow Lake of Ministry of Education, College of Environment, Hohai University, Nanjing 210098, China
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Liese B, Stock NL, Düwel J, Pilger C, Huser T, Müller C. Uptake of microplastics and impacts on plant traits of savoy cabbage. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 272:116086. [PMID: 38354433 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116086] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 01/21/2024] [Accepted: 02/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
Anthropogenic influences such as plastic pollution are causing serious environmental problems. While effects of microplastics on marine organisms are well studied, less is known about effects of plastic particles on terrestrial organisms such as plants. We investigated the effects of microplastic particles on different growth and metabolic traits of savoy cabbage (Brassica oleracea var. sabauda). Sections of seedlings exposed to polystyrene particles were analysed by coherent Raman scattering microscopy. These analyses revealed an uptake of particles in a size range of 0.5 µm to 2.0 µm into cells of the hypocotyl. Furthermore, plants were grown in substrate amended with polyethylene and polystyrene particles of different sizes (s1: 200-500 µm; s2: 100-200 µm; s3: 20-100 µm; s4: < 100 µm, with most particles < 20 µm; s5: < 20 µm) and in different concentrations (c1 = 0.1%, c2 = 0.01%, c3 = 0.001%). After several weeks, shoot and root biomass were harvested. Leaves were analysed for their carbon to nitrogen ratio, while amino acid and glucosinolate composition were measured using high performance liquid chromatography. Plastic type, particle size and concentration showed distinct effects on certain plant traits. Shoot biomass was interactively influenced by size and concentration of polyethylene, while root biomass was not modified by any of the plastic exposure treatments. Likewise, the composition and total concentrations of leaf amino acids were not affected, but the leucine concentration was significantly increased in several of the plastic-exposed plants. Glucosinolates were also slightly altered, depending on the particle size. Some of the observed effects may be independent of plastic uptake, as larger particles were not taken up but still could affect plant traits. For example, in the rhizosphere plastic particles may increase the water holding capacity of the soil, impacting some of the plant traits. In summary, this study shows how important the plastic type, particle size and concentration are for the uptake of microplastics and their effects on plant traits, which may have important implications for crops, but also for ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bastian Liese
- Chemical Ecology, Bielefeld University, Universitätsstr. 25, Bielefeld 33615, Germany
| | - Noah Lovis Stock
- Chemical Ecology, Bielefeld University, Universitätsstr. 25, Bielefeld 33615, Germany
| | - Julian Düwel
- Biomolecular Photonics, Bielefeld University, Universitätsstr. 25, Bielefeld 33615, Germany
| | - Christian Pilger
- Biomolecular Photonics, Bielefeld University, Universitätsstr. 25, Bielefeld 33615, Germany
| | - Thomas Huser
- Biomolecular Photonics, Bielefeld University, Universitätsstr. 25, Bielefeld 33615, Germany
| | - Caroline Müller
- Chemical Ecology, Bielefeld University, Universitätsstr. 25, Bielefeld 33615, Germany.
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63
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Jia Y, Cheng Z, Peng Y, Yang G. Microplastics alter the equilibrium of plant-soil-microbial system: A meta-analysis. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 272:116082. [PMID: 38335576 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.116082] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2023] [Revised: 12/31/2023] [Accepted: 02/04/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are widely identified as emerging hazards causing considerable eco-toxicity in terrestrial ecosystems, but the impacts differ in different ecosystem functions among different chemical compositions, morphology, sizes, concentrations, and experiment duration. Given the close relationships and trade-offs between plant and soil systems, probing the "whole ecosystem" instead of individual functions must yield novel insights into MPs affecting terrestrial ecosystems. Here, a comprehensive meta-analysis was employed to reveal an unambiguous response of the plant-soil-microbial system to MPs. Results showed that in view of plant, soil, and microbial functions, the general response patterns of plant and soil functions to MPs were obviously opposite. For example, polyethylene (PE) and polyvinyl chloride (PVC) MPs highly increased plant functions, while posed negative effects on soil functions. Polystyrene (PS) and biodegradable (Bio) MPs decreased plant functions, while stimulating soil functions. Additionally, low-density polyethylene (LDPE), PE, PS, PVC, Bio, and granular MPs significantly decreased soil microbial functions. These results clearly revealed that MPs alter the equilibrium of the plant-soil-microbial system. More importantly, our results further revealed that MPs tended to increase ecosystem multifunctionality, e.g., LDPE and PVC MPs posed positive effects on ecosystem multifunctionality, PE, PS, and Bio MPs showed neutral effects on ecosystem multifunctionality. Linear regression analysis showed that under low MPs size (<100 µm), ecosystem multifunctionality was gradually reduced with the increased size of MPs. The response of ecosystem multifunctionality showed a concave shape pattern along the gradient of experimental duration which was lower than 70 days. More importantly, there was a threshold (i.e., 5% w/w) for the effects of MPs concentration on ecosystem multifunctionality, i.e., under low concentration (< 5% w/w), ecosystem multifunctionality was gradually increased with the increased concentration of MPs, while ecosystem multifunctionality was gradually decreased under high concentration (i.e., > 5% w/w). These findings emphasize the importance of studying the effects of MPs on plant-soil-microbial systems and help us identify ways to reduce the eco-toxicity of MPs and maintain environmental safety in view of an ecology perspective.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yangyang Jia
- College of Ecology and Environment, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830046, China
| | - Zhen Cheng
- College of Ecology and Environment, Xinjiang University, Urumqi 830046, China
| | - Yi Peng
- College of Resources and Environment, Xinjiang Agricultural University, Urumqi 830052, China.
| | - Guojiang Yang
- Institute of Farmland Water Conservancy and Soil-fertilizer, Xinjiang Academy of Agricultural and Reclamation Science, Shihezi 832000, China
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64
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Rotchell JM, Mendrik F, Chapman E, Flintoft P, Panter I, Gallio G, McDonnell C, Liddle CR, Jennings D, Schofield J. The contamination of in situ archaeological remains: A pilot analysis of microplastics in sediment samples using μFTIR. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 914:169941. [PMID: 38199369 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.169941] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/11/2023] [Revised: 12/13/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Microplastics (MPs) are found in all environments: aquatic, airborne, and terrestrial. While their presence is not disputed, their potential impacts are not yet known. OBJECTIVE To undertake a pilot analysis of MP contamination in archaeological sediment samples, taken in the late 1980s from two archaeological excavation sites in the historic city of York (UK) as well as contemporary sources close to the same sites, with respect to the presence (if any), levels, and characteristics of any particles identified. METHODS This study analysed pre-digested sediment samples as follows: n = 3 from Queens Hotel (QH) site and n = 3 Wellington Row (WR) contemporary core-source, and n = 3 QH and n = 3 WR archival-source samples, alongside procedural controls (n = 8), using μFTIR spectroscopy (size limitation of 5 μm) to detect and characterise any MPs present. RESULTS In total, 66 MP particles consisting of 16 MP polymer types were identified across both site and contemporary/archived samples. The highest levels of MP particles, 20,588 MP/kg was identified at the lowest sample depth (∼7.35 m) at archived WR, 5910 MP/kg in the mid depth layer (∼5.85 m) at the contemporary QH site. Of the MPs detected in sediment samples overall, polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polybutylene sulfone (PSU), and polypropylene: polyethylene (PE:PP) copolymer polymer types were most abundant; mainly fragmented and irregular shape. CONCLUSIONS This is believed to be the first evidence of MP contamination in archaeological sediment (or soil) samples with polymers and size ranges measured and while accounting for procedural blanks. These results support the phenomenon of transport of MPs within archaeological stratigraphy, and the characterisation of types, shapes and size ranges identified therein. Through contamination, MPs may compromise the scientific value of archaeological deposits, and environmental proxies suspended within significant sediment, and as such represent a new consideration in the dynamism of, as well as arguments for preserving, archaeological deposits in situ.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jeanette M Rotchell
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Hull, Kingston-upon-Hull HU6 7RX, United Kingdom; College of Health and Science, University of Lincoln, Brayford Pool, Lincoln LN6 7TS, United Kingdom.
| | - Freija Mendrik
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Hull, Kingston-upon-Hull HU6 7RX, United Kingdom; Energy and Environment Institute, University of Hull, Kingston-upon-Hull HU6 7RX, United Kingdom
| | - Emma Chapman
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Hull, Kingston-upon-Hull HU6 7RX, United Kingdom
| | - Paul Flintoft
- York Archaeology, (York), 47 Aldwark, York, North Yorkshire YO1 7BX, United Kingdom
| | - Ian Panter
- York Archaeology, (York), 47 Aldwark, York, North Yorkshire YO1 7BX, United Kingdom
| | - Giulia Gallio
- York Archaeology, (York), 47 Aldwark, York, North Yorkshire YO1 7BX, United Kingdom
| | - Christine McDonnell
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Hull, Kingston-upon-Hull HU6 7RX, United Kingdom
| | - Catriona R Liddle
- School of Natural Sciences, University of Hull, Kingston-upon-Hull HU6 7RX, United Kingdom
| | - David Jennings
- York Archaeology, (York), 47 Aldwark, York, North Yorkshire YO1 7BX, United Kingdom
| | - John Schofield
- Department of Archaeology, University of York, King's Manor, Exhibition Square, York YO17EP, United Kingdom
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65
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Ma K, Fu Y, Liu Y. The effects of microplastics on crop variation depend on polymer types and their interactions with soil nutrient availability and weed competition. PLANT BIOLOGY (STUTTGART, GERMANY) 2024; 26:223-231. [PMID: 38198234 DOI: 10.1111/plb.13612] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/13/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics pollution of agricultural soil is a global environmental concern because of its potential risk to food security and human health. Although many studies have tested the direct effects of microplastics on growth of Eruca sativa Mill., little is known about whether these effects are regulated by fertilization and weed competition in field management practices. Here, we performed a greenhouse experiment growing E. sativa as target species in a three-factorial design with two levels of fertilization (low versus. high), two levels of weed competition treatments (weed competition versus no weed competition) and five levels of microplastic treatments (no microplastics, Polybutylene adipate-co-terephthalate [PBAT], Polybutylene succinate [PBS], Polycaprolactone [PCL] or Polypropylene [PP]). Compared to the soil without microplastics, PBS and PCL reduced aboveground biomass and leaf number of the E. sativa. PBS also resulted in increased root allocation and thicker roots in E. sativa. In addition, fertilization significantly mitigated the negative effects of PBS and PCL on aboveground biomass of E. sativa, but weed competition significantly promoted these effects. Although fertilization alleviated the negative effect of PBS on aboveground biomass, such alleviation became weaker under weed competition than when E. sativa grew alone. The results indicate that the effects of specific polymer types on E. sativa growth could be regulated by fertilization, weed management, and even their interactions. Therefore, reasonable on-farm management practices may help in mitigating the negative effects of microplastics pollution on E. sativa growth in agricultural fields.
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Affiliation(s)
- K Ma
- Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, 130102, China
- University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, China
| | - Y Fu
- Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, 130102, China
| | - Y Liu
- Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Changchun, 130102, China
- Ecology, Department of Biology, University of Konstanz, Konstanz, Germany
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66
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Wang Y, Hou P, Liu K, Hayat K, Liu W. Depth distribution of nano- and microplastics and their contribution to carbon storage in Chinese agricultural soils. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 913:169709. [PMID: 38159746 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169709] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/27/2023] [Revised: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 12/25/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
The extensive and prolonged utilization of plastic materials in agriculture has primarily led to the accumulation of nano- and microplastics (NMPs, ≤5 mm) in farmland soils. The spatial-vertical distribution of NMPs mass concentrations and their impact on the national agricultural soil carbon reservoir remain unexamined. In this study, we quantified the residual mass concentrations of six prevalent plastic types in farmland soils around China using the double-shot model of thermal desorption/pyrolysis-gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (TD/Py-GC-MS). The results showed that median NMPs concentrations were 79.81 μg/g in the topsoil layer (0-15 cm), 57.17 μg/g in the middle soil layer (15-30 cm), and 32.90 μg/g in the bottom soil layer (30-45 cm). Overall, agricultural soil NMPs levels declined from the surface to deeper soil layers; however, some regions exhibit an opposite trend. Furthermore, our estimations indicate that carbon sourced from NMPs contributes to the agricultural soil carbon pool within a range from 0.004 % to 5.606 %, depending on the soil depth. As a hallmark of sustainable agricultural soil management, it is noteworthy that the concealed and continuously expanding carbon contribution of NMPs has an impact on soil carbon storage, albeit at a relatively low level. Our data serves as a foundational reference point and enables a precise evaluation of future contributions of NMPs to the storage of carbon in agricultural soils within China.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanting Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Ecosystem Health, Institute of Environmental Health, College of Environmental and Resource Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China
| | - Peiyu Hou
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Environment and Resources of Zhejiang Province, School of Engineering, Westlake University, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Kai Liu
- Key Laboratory of Coastal Environment and Resources of Zhejiang Province, School of Engineering, Westlake University, 18 Shilongshan Road, Hangzhou 310024, Zhejiang Province, China
| | - Kashif Hayat
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Exposure and Health Intervention of Zhejiang Province, Interdisciplinary Research Academy, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 312028, China
| | - Weiping Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Ecosystem Health, Institute of Environmental Health, College of Environmental and Resource Sciences, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China; Key Laboratory of Pollution Exposure and Health Intervention of Zhejiang Province, Interdisciplinary Research Academy, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou, Zhejiang 312028, China.
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67
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Kataria N, Yadav S, Garg VK, Rene ER, Jiang JJ, Rose PK, Kumar M, Khoo KS. Occurrence, transport, and toxicity of microplastics in tropical food chains: perspectives view and way forward. ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND HEALTH 2024; 46:98. [PMID: 38393462 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-024-01862-2] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/24/2023] [Accepted: 01/06/2024] [Indexed: 02/25/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics, which have a diameter of less than 5 mm, are becoming an increasingly prevalent contaminant in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems due to the dramatic increase in plastic production to 390.7 million tonnes in 2021. Among all the plastics produced since 1950, nearly 80% ended up in the environment or landfills and eventually reached the oceans. Currently, 82-358 trillion plastic particles, equivalent to 1.1-4.9 million tonnes by weight, are floating on the ocean's surface. The interactions between microorganisms and microplastics have led to the transportation of other associated pollutants to higher trophic levels of the food chain, where microplastics eventually reach plants, animals, and top predators. This review paper focuses on the interactions and origins of microplastics in diverse environmental compartments that involve terrestrial and aquatic food chains. The present review study also critically discusses the toxicity potential of microplastics in the food chain. This systematic review critically identified 206 publications from 2010 to 2022, specifically reported on microplastic transport and ecotoxicological impact in aquatic and terrestrial food chains. Based on the ScienceDirect database, the total number of studies with "microplastic" as the keyword in their title increased from 75 to 4813 between 2010 and 2022. Furthermore, various contaminants are discussed, including how microplastics act as a vector to reach organisms after ingestion. This review paper would provide useful perspectives in comprehending the possible effects of microplastics and associated contaminants from primary producers to the highest trophic level (i.e. human health).
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Affiliation(s)
- Navish Kataria
- Department of Environmental Sciences, J.C. Bose University of Science and Technology, YMCA, Faridabad, Haryana, 121006, India
| | - Sangita Yadav
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar, Haryana, 125001, India
| | - Vinod Kumar Garg
- Department of Environmental Sciences and Technology, Central University of Punjab, Bathinda, Punjab, 151001, India
| | - Eldon R Rene
- Department of Water Supply, Sanitation and Environmental Engineering, IHE Delft Institute for Water Education, Westvest 7, 2601 DA, Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Jheng-Jie Jiang
- Advanced Environmental Ultra Research Laboratory (ADVENTURE), Department of Environmental Engineering, Chung Yuan Christian University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
- Center for Environmental Risk Management (CERM), Chung Yuan Christian University, Taoyuan, Taiwan
| | - Pawan Kumar Rose
- Department of Energy and Environmental Sciences, Chaudhary Devi Lal University, Sirsa, Haryana, 125055, India
| | - Mukesh Kumar
- Department of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guru Jambheshwar University of Science and Technology, Hisar, Haryana, 125001, India
| | - Kuan Shiong Khoo
- Department of Chemical Engineering and Materials Science, Yuan Ze University, Taoyuan, Taiwan.
- Centre for Herbal Pharmacology and Environmental Sustainability, Chettinad Hospital and Research Institute, Chettinad Academy of Research and Education, Kelambakkam, Tamil Nadu, 603103, India.
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68
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Yang L, Luo L, Cai W, Chen Z, Luo X, Chen Y. Changes in carbohydrate metabolism and soil microorganisms under the stress of polyamide and polyethylene nanoplastics during rice (Oryza sativa L.) growth. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:169183. [PMID: 38092212 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169183] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/20/2023] [Revised: 12/04/2023] [Accepted: 12/05/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Nanoplastics (NPs) presence in agricultural soils can affect plant growth and impact the quality of agricultural products. To investigate the effect of polyamide (PA) NPs and polyethylene (PE) NPs on carbohydrate metabolism and soil microorganisms during rice growth, rice seedlings were exposed to soil containing 2 g/kg of 100 nm PA or 100 nm PE powder for 33 d. The results revealed that 100 nm PE reduced shoot length and dry weight of rice by 4.14 % and 15.68 %, respectively. Analyzing the expression of hexokinase-2 (HXK), phosphofructokinase-1 (PFK), pyruvate kinase (PK) and isocitrate dehydrogenase (IDH), which are four genes related to carbohydrate metabolism, 100 nm PA decreased the expression of PFK and increased the expression of PK and IDH. 100 nm PE increased the expression of HXK, PFK, PK, and IDH. The results of soil microorganisms showed that 100 nm PA significantly effects on 3 bacterial phyla (Bacteroidota, Deinococcota, and Desulfobacterota), whereas 100 nm PE significantly effects on phylum Rozellomycota, class Umbelopsidomycetes, and an unclassified Firmicutes. Our study provides direct evidence of the negative effects of PA and PE on rice, which may be important for assessing the risk of NPs on agroecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Limin Yang
- College of Life Science, Jiangxi Normal University, Jiangxi 330000, China; Institute of High Energy Physics, Chinese Academy of Sciences, China
| | - Lili Luo
- College of Life Science, Jiangxi Normal University, Jiangxi 330000, China
| | - Wenshan Cai
- College of Life Science, Jiangxi Normal University, Jiangxi 330000, China
| | - Zheng Chen
- College of Life Science, Jiangxi Normal University, Jiangxi 330000, China
| | - Xiangdong Luo
- College of Life Science, Jiangxi Normal University, Jiangxi 330000, China.
| | - Yaling Chen
- College of Life Science, Jiangxi Normal University, Jiangxi 330000, China.
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69
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Meng Z, Mo X, Meng W, Hu B, Liu B, Li H, Liu J, Xu M, Hou Q, Lu X, He M. Microplastics could alter invasive plant community performance and the dominance of Amaranthus palmeri. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:169275. [PMID: 38086482 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169275] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/18/2023] [Revised: 12/08/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 12/17/2023]
Abstract
The increase in alien plant invasions poses a major threat to global biodiversity and ecosystem stability. However, the presence of microplastics (MPs) as an environmental stressor could impact the interactions between invasive and native species in an invasive plant community. Nevertheless, the community alterations and underlying mechanisms resulting from these interactions remain unclear. Herein, we systematically investigated the impacts of polyethylene (PE) and polypropylene (PP) on invasive plant communities invaded by Amaranthus palmeri through soil seed bank. The results illustrated that MPs markedly declined community height and biomass, and altered community structure, low-dose MPs could prominently increase community invasion resistance, but reduced community stability. The niche width and niche overlap of A. palmeri and S. viridis declined when exposed to high-dose MPs, but MPs elicited a significant rise in the niche width of S. salsa. PP had the potential to reduce the diversity of invasive plant community. Structural equation model revealed that PP addition could change soil total phosphorus content, thereby leading to a reduction of the community stability. Our study helps to fill the knowledge gap regarding the effects of MPs on invasive plant communities and provide new perspectives for invasive plant management.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zirui Meng
- School of Geographic and Environmental Science, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin 300382, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Water Resources and Environment, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin 300382, China; State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Science, Beijing 100012, China
| | - Xunqiang Mo
- School of Geographic and Environmental Science, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin 300382, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Water Resources and Environment, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin 300382, China
| | - Weiqing Meng
- School of Geographic and Environmental Science, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin 300382, China
| | - Beibei Hu
- School of Geographic and Environmental Science, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin 300382, China
| | - Baiqiao Liu
- School of Geographic and Environmental Science, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin 300382, China
| | - Hongyuan Li
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Jie Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Herbage Improvement and Grassland Agro-ecosystems, Center for Grassland Microbiome, College of Pastoral Agriculture Science and Technology, Lanzhou University, Lanzhou 730020, China
| | - Mengyao Xu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Qidong Hou
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Xueqiang Lu
- College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300071, China
| | - Mengxuan He
- School of Geographic and Environmental Science, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin 300382, China; Tianjin Key Laboratory of Water Resources and Environment, Tianjin Normal University, Tianjin 300382, China.
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70
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Shi W, Wu N, Zhang Z, Liu Y, Chen J, Li J. A global review on the abundance and threats of microplastics in soils to terrestrial ecosystem and human health. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:169469. [PMID: 38154650 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169469] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/28/2023] [Revised: 11/29/2023] [Accepted: 12/16/2023] [Indexed: 12/30/2023]
Abstract
Soil is the source and sink of microplastics (MPs), which is more polluted than water and air. In this paper, the pollution levels of MPs in the agriculture, roadside, urban and landfill soils were reviewed, and the influence of MPs on soil ecosystem, including soil properties, microorganisms, animals and plants, was discussed. According to the results of in vivo and in vitro experiments, the possible risks of MPs to soil ecosystem and human health were predicted. Finally, in light of the current status of MPs research, several prospects are provided for future research directions to better evaluate the ecological risk and human health risk of MPs. MPs concentrations in global agricultural soils, roadside soils, urban soils and landfill soils had a great variance in different studies and locations. The participation of MPs has an impact on all aspects of terrestrial ecosystems. For soil properties, pH value, bulk density, pore space and evapotranspiration can be changed by MPs. For microorganisms, MPs can alter the diversity and abundance of microbiome, and different MPs have different effects on bacteria and fungi differently. For plants, MPs may interfere with their biochemical and physiological conditions and produce a wide range of toxic effects, such as inhibiting plant growth, delaying or reducing seed germination, reducing biological and fruit yield, and interfering with photosynthesis. For soil animals, MPs can affect their mobility, growth rate and reproductive capacity. At present epidemiological evidences regarding MPs exposure and negative human health effects are unavailable, but in vitro and in vivo data suggest that they pose various threats to human health, including respiratory system, digestive system, urinary system, endocrine system, nervous system, and circulation system. In conclusion, the existence and danger of MPs cannot be ignored and requires a global effort.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wenshan Shi
- School of Public Health, MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Nan Wu
- School of Geography, Queen Mary University of London, London E1 4NS, UK
| | - Zengli Zhang
- School of Public Health, MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China.
| | - Yuting Liu
- School of Public Health, MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Jingsi Chen
- School of Public Health, MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China
| | - Jiafu Li
- School of Public Health, MOE Key Laboratory of Geriatric Diseases and Immunology, Suzhou Medical College, Soochow University, Suzhou 215123, China.
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71
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Khan AR, Ulhassan Z, Li G, Lou J, Iqbal B, Salam A, Azhar W, Batool S, Zhao T, Li K, Zhang Q, Zhao X, Du D. Micro/nanoplastics: Critical review of their impacts on plants, interactions with other contaminants (antibiotics, heavy metals, and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons), and management strategies. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:169420. [PMID: 38128670 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169420] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/19/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic/nanoplastics (MPs/NPs) contamination is not only emerging threat to the agricultural system but also constitute global hazard to the environment worldwide. Recent review articles have addressed the environmental distribution of MPs/NPs and their single-exposure phytotoxicity in various plant species. However, the mechanisms of MPs/NPs-induced phytotoxicity in conjunction with that of other contaminants remain unknown, and there is a need for strategies to ameliorate such phytotoxicity. To address this, we comprehensively review the sources of MPs/NPs, their uptake by and effects on various plant species, and their phytotoxicity in conjunction with antibiotics, heavy metals, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and other toxicants. We examine mechanisms to ameliorate MP/NP-induced phytotoxicity, including the use of phytohormones, biochar, and other plant-growth regulators. We discuss the effects of MPs/NPs -induced phytotoxicity in terms of its ability to inhibit plant growth and photosynthesis, disrupt nutrient metabolism, inhibit seed germination, promote oxidative stress, alter the antioxidant defense system, and induce genotoxicity. This review summarizes the novel strategies for mitigating MPs/NPs phytotoxicity, presents recent advances, and highlights research gaps, providing a foundation for future studies aimed at overcoming the emerging problem of MPs/NPs phytotoxicity in edible crops.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ali Raza Khan
- School of Emergency Management, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Green Technology and Contingency Management for Emerging Pollutants, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, People's Republic of China
| | - Zaid Ulhassan
- Zhejiang Key Lab of Crop Germplasm, Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310000, People's Republic of China
| | - Guanlin Li
- School of Emergency Management, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Green Technology and Contingency Management for Emerging Pollutants, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, People's Republic of China; Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Technology and Material of Water Treatment, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou 215009, People's Republic of China.
| | - Jiabao Lou
- School of Emergency Management, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Green Technology and Contingency Management for Emerging Pollutants, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, People's Republic of China
| | - Babar Iqbal
- School of Emergency Management, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Green Technology and Contingency Management for Emerging Pollutants, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, People's Republic of China.
| | - Abdul Salam
- Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology of the Ministry of Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, People's Republic of China
| | - Wardah Azhar
- Zhejiang Key Lab of Crop Germplasm, Department of Agronomy, College of Agriculture and Biotechnology, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310000, People's Republic of China
| | - Sundas Batool
- Department of Plant Breeding and Genetics, Faculty of Agriculture, Gomal University, Pakistan
| | - Tingting Zhao
- Institute of Biology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin 14195, Germany
| | - Kexin Li
- School of Emergency Management, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Green Technology and Contingency Management for Emerging Pollutants, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, People's Republic of China
| | - Qiuyue Zhang
- School of Emergency Management, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Center of Green Technology and Contingency Management for Emerging Pollutants, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Zhao
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Daolin Du
- Jingjiang College, Institute of Enviroment and Ecology, School of Emergency Management, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, School of Agricultural Engineering,Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang 212013, People's Republic of China.
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72
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Han Y, Teng Y, Wang X, Wen D, Gao P, Yan D, Yang N. Biodegradable PBAT microplastics adversely affect pakchoi (Brassica chinensis L.) growth and the rhizosphere ecology: Focusing on rhizosphere microbial community composition, element metabolic potential, and root exudates. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:169048. [PMID: 38061654 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
Biodegradable plastics (BPs) have gained increased attention as a promising solution to plastics pollution problem. However, BPs often exhibited limited in situ biodegradation in the soil environment, so they may also release microplastics (MPs) into soils just like conventional non-degradable plastics. Therefore, it is necessary to evaluate the impacts of biodegradable MPs (BMPs) on soil ecosystem. Here, we explored the effects of biodegradable poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT) MPs and conventional polyethylene (PE) MPs on soil-plant (pakchoi) system at three doses (0.02 %, 0.2 %, and 2 %, w/w). Results showed that PBAT MPs reduced plant growth in a dose-dependent pattern, while PE MPs exhibited no significant phytotoxicity. High-dose PBAT MPs negatively affected the rhizosphere soil nutrient availability, e.g., decreased available phosphorus and available potassium. Metagenomics analysis revealed that PBAT MPs caused more serious interference with the rhizosphere microbial community composition and function than PE MPs. In particular, compared with PE MPs, PBAT MPs induced greater changes in functional potential of carbon, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sulfur cycles, which may lead to alterations in soil biogeochemical processes and ecological functions. Moreover, untargeted metabolomics showed that PBAT MPs and PE MPs differentially affect plant root exudates. Mantel tests, correlation analysis, and partial least squares path model analysis showed that changes in plant growth and root exudates were significantly correlated with soil properties and rhizosphere microbiome driven by the MPs-rhizosphere interactions. This work improves our knowledge of how biodegradable and conventional non-degradable MPs affect plant growth and the rhizosphere ecology, highlighting that BMPs might pose greater threat to soil ecosystems than non-degradable MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yujuan Han
- Institute of Vegetables, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Ying Teng
- Key Laboratory of Soil Environment and Pollution Remediation, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Xiao Wang
- Institute of Vegetables, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Dan Wen
- Institute of Vegetables, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Peixin Gao
- Institute of Plant Protection, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Dong Yan
- Institute of Vegetables, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan 250100, China
| | - Ning Yang
- Institute of Vegetables, Shandong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Jinan 250100, China.
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73
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Athulya PA, Waychal Y, Rodriguez-Seijo A, Devalla S, Doss CGP, Chandrasekaran N. Microplastic interactions in the agroecosystems: methodological advances and limitations in quantifying microplastics from agricultural soil. ENVIRONMENTAL GEOCHEMISTRY AND HEALTH 2024; 46:85. [PMID: 38367078 DOI: 10.1007/s10653-023-01800-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/04/2023] [Accepted: 11/17/2023] [Indexed: 02/19/2024]
Abstract
The instantaneous growth of the world population is intensifying the pressure on the agricultural sector. On the other hand, the critical climate changes and increasing load of pollutants in the soil are imposing formidable challenges on agroecosystems, affecting productivity and quality of the crops. Microplastics are among the most prevalent pollutants that have already invaded all terrestrial and aquatic zones. The increasing microplastic concentration in soil critically impacts crop plants growth and yield. The current review elaborates on the behaviors of microplastics in soil and their impact on soil quality and plant growth. The study shows that microplastics alter the soil's biophysical properties, including water-holding capacity, bulk density, aeration, texture, and microbial composition. In addition, microplastics interact with multiple pollutants, such as polyaromatic hydrocarbons and heavy metals, making them more bioavailable to crop plants. The study also provides a detailed insight into the current techniques available for the isolation and identification of soil microplastics, providing solutions to some of the critical challenges faced and highlighting the research gaps. In our study, we have taken a holistic, comprehensive approach by analysing and comparing various interconnected aspects to provide a deeper understanding of all research perspectives on microplastics in agroecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Yojana Waychal
- Centre for Nanobiotechnology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India
| | - Andres Rodriguez-Seijo
- Departamento de Bioloxía Vexetal e Ciencias do Solo, Área de Edafoloxía e Química Agrícola, Facultade de Ciencias de Ourense, Universidade de Vigo, As Lagoas S/N, 32004, Ourense, Spain
- Instituto de Agroecoloxía e Alimentación (IAA), Universidade de Vigo-Campus Auga, 32004, Ourense, Spain
| | - Sandhya Devalla
- The James Hutton Institute, Craigiebuckler, Aberdeen, AB15 8QH, Scotland, UK
| | - C George Priya Doss
- Department of Integrative Biology, School of Biosciences and Technology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India
| | - Natarajan Chandrasekaran
- Centre for Nanobiotechnology, Vellore Institute of Technology, Vellore, Tamil Nadu, 632014, India.
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74
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Rafa N, Ahmed B, Zohora F, Bakya J, Ahmed S, Ahmed SF, Mofijur M, Chowdhury AA, Almomani F. Microplastics as carriers of toxic pollutants: Source, transport, and toxicological effects. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 343:123190. [PMID: 38142809 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.123190] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/24/2023] [Revised: 11/25/2023] [Accepted: 12/17/2023] [Indexed: 12/26/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution has emerged as a new environmental concern due to our reliance on plastic. Recent years have seen an upward trend in scholarly interest in the topic of microplastics carrying contaminants; however, the available review studies have largely focused on specific aspects of this issue, such as sorption, transport, and toxicological effects. Consequently, this review synthesizes the state-of-the-art knowledge on these topics by presenting key findings to guide better policy action toward microplastic management. Microplastics have been reported to absorb pollutants such as persistent organic pollutants, heavy metals, and antibiotics, leading to their bioaccumulation in marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Hydrophobic interactions are found to be the predominant sorption mechanism, especially for organic pollutants, although electrostatic forces, van der Waals forces, hydrogen bonding, and pi-pi interactions are also noteworthy. This review reveals that physicochemical properties of microplastics, such as size, structure, and functional groups, and environmental compartment properties, such as pH, temperature, and salinity, influence the sorption of pollutants by microplastic. It has been found that microplastics influence the growth and metabolism of organisms. Inadequate methods for collection and analysis of environmental samples, lack of replication of real-world settings in laboratories, and a lack of understanding of the sorption mechanism and toxicity of microplastics impede current microplastic research. Therefore, future research should focus on filling in these knowledge gaps.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nazifa Rafa
- Department of Geography, University of Cambridge, Downing Place, Cambridge, CB2 3EN, United Kingdom
| | - Bushra Ahmed
- Science and Math Program, Asian University for Women, Chattogram 4000, Bangladesh
| | - Fatema Zohora
- Science and Math Program, Asian University for Women, Chattogram 4000, Bangladesh
| | - Jannatul Bakya
- Science and Math Program, Asian University for Women, Chattogram 4000, Bangladesh
| | - Samiya Ahmed
- Biological and Biomedical Sciences Department, College of Health and Life sciences, Hamad Bin Khalifa University, Doha, Qatar
| | - Shams Forruque Ahmed
- Science and Math Program, Asian University for Women, Chattogram 4000, Bangladesh
| | - M Mofijur
- Centre for Technology in Water and Wastewater, School of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of Technology Sydney, Ultimo, NSW 2007, Australia
| | - Ashfaque Ahmed Chowdhury
- School of Engineering and Technology, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, QLD 4702, Australia; Centre for Intelligent Systems, Clean Energy Academy, Central Queensland University, Rockhampton, QLD 4702, Australia
| | - Fares Almomani
- Department of Chemical Engineering, Qatar University, Doha, Qatar.
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75
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Hao B, Wu H, Zhang S, He B. Response strategies of stem/leaves endophyte communities to nano-plastics regulate growth performance of submerged macrophytes. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 464:132883. [PMID: 37952333 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132883] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/23/2023] [Revised: 10/25/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/14/2023]
Abstract
Research on the toxicity effects of nano-plastics on submerged macrophytes has been increasing over the past several years. However, how the endophytic bacteria of submerged macrophytes respond to nano-plastics remains unknown, although they have been widely shown to help terrestrial plants cope with various environmental stressors. Here, a microcosm experiment was performed to unravel the effects of high concentration of nano-plastics (20 mg/L) on three submerged macrophyte (Vallisneria natans, Potamogeton maackianus, Myriophyllum spicatum) and their endophytic bacterial communities. Results indicated that nano-plastics induced antioxidative stress in plants, but significantly reduction in relative growth rate (RGR) only occurred in V. natans (from 0.0034 to -0.0029 day-1), accompanied by change in the stem/leaves endophyte community composition. Further analysis suggested nano-plastics caused a reduction in environmental nutrient availability and the proportion of positive interactions between endophyte communities (43%), resulting in the lowest RGR of V. natans. In contrast, endophytes may help P. maackianus and M. spicatum cope with nano-plastic stress by increasing the proportion of positive correlations among communities (70% and 75%), leaving their RGR unaffected. Collectively, our study elucidates the species-specific response strategies of submerged macrophyte-endophyte to nano-plastics, which helps to reveal the different phytoremediation potential of submerged macrophytes against nano-plastic pollution.
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Affiliation(s)
- Beibei Hao
- National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agro-environmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China
| | - Haoping Wu
- Guangdong Key Laboratory of Ornamental Plant Germplasm Innovation and Utilization, Environmental Horticulture Research Institute, Guangdong Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Guangzhou 510640, China.
| | - Siyi Zhang
- National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agro-environmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China
| | - Bin He
- National-Regional Joint Engineering Research Center for Soil Pollution Control and Remediation in South China, Guangdong Key Laboratory of Integrated Agro-environmental Pollution Control and Management, Institute of Eco-environmental and Soil Sciences, Guangdong Academy of Sciences, Guangzhou 510650, China.
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76
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Sun H, Shi Y, Li C, He S, Bai Y, Zhao P, Qiu D, Liu J, He S. Factors controlling the heavy metal ion activity in soil contaminated by microplastics with different mulch durations: Partial least squares path model. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 464:133027. [PMID: 37995638 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133027] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/20/2023] [Revised: 11/15/2023] [Accepted: 11/16/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023]
Abstract
Film covers have been widely applied worldwide. However, the effects of long-term plastic film mulching use on heavy metal (HM) activity in soil remain unclear. This study focused on farmland in the upstream part of the Pearl River in China and collected 103 soil samples after 2, 5, and 15 years of plastic film mulching. The main environmental factors controlling microplastics (MPs), plasticizer phthalic acid esters (PAEs), HM pollution characteristics, and HM activity were analyzed. The results showed that Polyethylene (PE) and di(2-ethylhexyl) dicyclohexyl phthalate (DCHP) were the main MPs and PAEs, respectively. The abundance of MPs and the concentrations of free HM ions (Cd, Cu, and Ni) in the soil solution increased with increasing plastic film mulching duration. The Partial Least Squares Path Model (PLS-PM) indicated that after plastic film mulching, soil chemical properties (pH/amorphous Fe) and biological properties (Dissolved organic carbon/ Easily oxidizable carbon/Microbial biomass carbon) were the main controlling factors for free and complexed HM ions (Cd, Pb, Cu, and Ni). These results suggest that, after plastic film mulching, MPs indirectly regulate HM activity by altering soil properties. This study provides a new perspective for the management of MPs and HM activities in agricultural ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huarong Sun
- College of Resources and Environment, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Yilan Shi
- College of Resources and Environment, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Chaohang Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Shaanxi University of Science & Technology, Xi'an 710021, China
| | - Siran He
- The Second People's Hospital of Qujing, Yunnan 655000, China
| | - Yinghao Bai
- Honghe Center for Disease Control and Prevention, Honghe, Yunnan 661100, China
| | - Ping Zhao
- College of Resources and Environment, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Dan Qiu
- College of Resources and Environment, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Jiamin Liu
- College of Resources and Environment, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China
| | - Shuran He
- College of Resources and Environment, Yunnan Agricultural University, Kunming 650201, China.
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77
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Tariq M, Iqbal B, Khan I, Khan AR, Jho EH, Salam A, Zhou H, Zhao X, Li G, Du D. Microplastic contamination in the agricultural soil-mitigation strategies, heavy metals contamination, and impact on human health: a review. PLANT CELL REPORTS 2024; 43:65. [PMID: 38341396 DOI: 10.1007/s00299-024-03162-6] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/14/2023] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 02/12/2024]
Abstract
Microplastic pollution has emerged as a critical global environmental issue due to its widespread distribution, persistence, and potential adverse effects on ecosystems and human health. Although research on microplastic pollution in aquatic environments has gained significant attention. However, a limited literature has summarized the impacts of microplastic pollution the agricultural land and human health. Therefore, In the current review, we have discussed how microplastic(s) affect the microorganisms by ingesting the microplastic present in the soil, alternatively affecting the belowground biotic and abiotic components, which further elucidates the negative effects on the above-ground properties of the crops. In addition, the consumption of these crops in the food chain revealed a potential risk to human health throughout the food chain. Moreover, microplastic pollution has the potential to induce a negative impact on agricultural production and food security by altering the physiochemical properties of the soil, microbial population, nutrient cycling, and plant growth and development. Therefore, we discussed in detail the potential hazards caused by microplastic contamination in the soil and through the consumption of food and water by humans in daily intake. Furthermore, further study is urgently required to comprehend how microplastic pollution negatively affects terrestrial ecosystems, particularly agroecosystems which drastically reduces the productivity of the crops. Our review highlights the urgent need for greater awareness, policy interventions, and technological solutions to address the emerging threat of microplastic pollution in soil and plant systems and mitigation strategies to overcome its potential impacts on human health. Based on existing studies, we have pointed out the research gaps and proposed different directions for future research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Muhammad Tariq
- School of Environment and Safety Engineering, School of Emergency Management, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Centre of Green Technology and Contingency Management for Emerging Pollutants, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, People's Republic of China
| | - Babar Iqbal
- School of Environment and Safety Engineering, School of Emergency Management, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Centre of Green Technology and Contingency Management for Emerging Pollutants, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, People's Republic of China.
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Centre of Technology and Material of Water Treatment, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215009, People's Republic of China.
| | - Ismail Khan
- School of Environment and Safety Engineering, School of Emergency Management, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Centre of Green Technology and Contingency Management for Emerging Pollutants, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, People's Republic of China
| | - Ali Raza Khan
- School of Environment and Safety Engineering, School of Emergency Management, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Centre of Green Technology and Contingency Management for Emerging Pollutants, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, People's Republic of China
| | - Eun Hea Jho
- Department of Agricultural and Biological Chemistry, Chonnam National University, Gwangju, 61186, Republic of Korea
| | - Abdul Salam
- Key Laboratory of Natural Pesticide and Chemical Biology of the Ministry of Education, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou, 510642, People's Republic of China
| | - Huan Zhou
- School of Environment and Safety Engineering, School of Emergency Management, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Centre of Green Technology and Contingency Management for Emerging Pollutants, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, People's Republic of China
- Zhenjiang New District Environmental Monitoring Station Co. Ltd, Zhenjiang, 212132, People's Republic of China
| | - Xin Zhao
- Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, College of Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, 08826, Republic of Korea
| | - Guanlin Li
- School of Environment and Safety Engineering, School of Emergency Management, Jiangsu Province Engineering Research Centre of Green Technology and Contingency Management for Emerging Pollutants, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, People's Republic of China.
- Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Centre of Technology and Material of Water Treatment, Suzhou University of Science and Technology, Suzhou, 215009, People's Republic of China.
| | - Daolin Du
- Jingjiang College, Institute of Environment and Ecology, School of Emergency Management, School of Environment and Safety Engineering, School of Agricultural Engineering, Jiangsu University, Zhenjiang, 212013, People's Republic of China.
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78
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Hou Z, Mo F, Zhou Q, Xie Y, Liu X, Zheng T, Tao Z. Key Role of Vegetation Cover in Alleviating Microplastic-Enhanced Carbon Emissions. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024. [PMID: 38319346 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c10017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/07/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are considered to influence fundamental biogeochemical processes, but the effects of plant residue-MP interactions on soil carbon turnover in urban greenspaces are virtually unknown. Here, an 84-day incubation experiment was constructed using four types of single-vegetation-covered soils (6 years), showing that polystyrene MP (PSMP) pollution caused an unexpectedly large increase in soil CO2 emissions. The additional CO2 originating from highly bioavailable active dissolved organic matter molecules (<380 °C, predominantly polysaccharides) was converted from persistent carbon (380-650 °C, predominantly aromatic compounds) rather than PSMP derivatives. However, the priming effect of PSMP derivatives was weakened in plant-driven soils (resistivity: shrub > tree > grass). This can be explained from two perspectives: (1) Plant residue-driven humification processes reduced the percentage of bioavailable active dissolved organic matter derived from the priming effects of PSMPs. (2) Plant residues accelerated bacterial community succession (dominated by plant residue types) but slowed fungal community demise (retained carbon turnover-related functional taxa), enabling specific enrichment of glycolysis, the citric acid cycle and the pentose phosphate pathway. These results provide a necessary theoretical basis to understand the role of plant residues in reducing PSMP harm at the ecological level and refresh knowledge about the importance of biodiversity for ecosystem stability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zelin Hou
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Carbon Neutrality Interdisciplinary Science Centre/College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Fan Mo
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Carbon Neutrality Interdisciplinary Science Centre/College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Qixing Zhou
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Carbon Neutrality Interdisciplinary Science Centre/College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Yingying Xie
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Carbon Neutrality Interdisciplinary Science Centre/College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Xueju Liu
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Carbon Neutrality Interdisciplinary Science Centre/College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Tong Zheng
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Carbon Neutrality Interdisciplinary Science Centre/College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Zongxin Tao
- Ministry of Education Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria/Tianjin Key Laboratory of Environmental Remediation and Pollution Control, Carbon Neutrality Interdisciplinary Science Centre/College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China
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79
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Lozano YM, Dueñas JF, Zordick C, Rillig MC. Microplastic fibres affect soil fungal communities depending on drought conditions with consequences for ecosystem functions. Environ Microbiol 2024; 26:e16549. [PMID: 38196372 DOI: 10.1111/1462-2920.16549] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/23/2023] [Accepted: 11/22/2023] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics affect soil functions depending on drought conditions. However, how their combined effect influences soil fungi and their linkages with ecosystem functions is still unknown. To address this, we used rhizosphere soil from a previous experiment in which we employed microplastic fibres addition and drought in a factorial design, and evaluated their effects on soil fungal communities. Microplastics decreased soil fungal richness under well-watered conditions, likely linked to microplastics leaching toxic substances into the soil, and microplastic effects on root fineness. Under drought, by contrast, microplastics increased pathogen and total fungal richness, likely related to microplastic positive effects on soil properties, such as water holding capacity, porosity or aggregation. Soil fungal richness was the attribute most affected by microplastics and drought. Microplastics altered the relationships between soil fungi and ecosystem functions to the point that many of them flipped from positive to negative or disappeared. The combined effect of microplastics and drought on fungal richness mitigated their individual negative effect (antagonism), suggesting that changes in soil water conditions may alter the action mode of microplastics in soil. Microplastic leaching of harmful substances can be mitigated under drought, while the improvement of soil properties by microplastics may alleviate such drought conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Y M Lozano
- Freie Universität Berlin, Institute of Biology, Plant Ecology, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin-Brandenburg Institute of Advanced Biodiversity Research (BBIB), Berlin, Germany
| | - J F Dueñas
- Freie Universität Berlin, Institute of Biology, Plant Ecology, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin-Brandenburg Institute of Advanced Biodiversity Research (BBIB), Berlin, Germany
| | - C Zordick
- Freie Universität Berlin, Institute of Biology, Plant Ecology, Berlin, Germany
| | - M C Rillig
- Freie Universität Berlin, Institute of Biology, Plant Ecology, Berlin, Germany
- Berlin-Brandenburg Institute of Advanced Biodiversity Research (BBIB), Berlin, Germany
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80
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Shah T, Khan Z, Asad M, Imran A, Niazi MBK, Dewil R, Ahmad A, Ahmad P. Straw incorporation into microplastic-contaminated soil can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by enhancing soil enzyme activities and microbial community structure. JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT 2024; 351:119616. [PMID: 38042071 DOI: 10.1016/j.jenvman.2023.119616] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/04/2023] [Revised: 10/22/2023] [Accepted: 11/12/2023] [Indexed: 12/04/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MP) contamination poses a substantial threat to agroecosystems, disrupting soil properties, nutrient cycles, and microbial communities and ultimately affecting plant growth and ecosystem resilience. The effects of straw addition on the storage of soil organic carbon (SOC) and greenhouse gas emissions have been extensively explored, but these effects have not been examined in the context of MP contamination. To assess the impacts of legume straw and polyethylene microplastics on SOC fractions and carbon dioxide (CO2) and nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions, 7-month soil incubation experiments were performed. The results revealed that the inclusion of legume straw in soil considerably increased microbial SOC compared to the control. However, straw addition to MP-contaminated soil reduced microbial SOC compared to that in soil containing only straw. In contrast, the addition of straw to MP-contaminated soil elevated (+44%) the SOC mineral relative to the sole application of straw. Intriguingly, straw incorporation into MP-contaminated soil reduced microbial biomass carbon and nitrogen relative to soil containing only straw. Straw addition to MP-contaminated soil enhanced the nitrification activity and reduced the relative expression of AOBamoABC gene compared to sole straw-incorporated soil and the control. Greenhouse gas emissions were also modulated; for instance, straw incorporation into MP-contaminated soil reduced CO2 and N2O emissions by -11% and -46%, compared to straw incorporation alone. The urease and phosphatase activities were decreased (-58% and -12%) in the MP-polluted soil with straw incorporation compared with those in the soil in which only straw was applied. However, invertase and catalase activities were upregulated in the straw-incorporated soil contaminated with MPs. Straw addition in the MP-polluted soil considerably enhanced (+2%) the microbial community structure (indicated by PLFA) compared to the sole straw application. These results provide a comprehensive perspective on the role of legume straw incorporation in addressing MP pollution, showcasing its potential for sustainable agricultural practices in the face of evolving environmental challenges.
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Affiliation(s)
- Tariq Shah
- Plant Science Research Unit United States department for Agriculture -Agricultural Research Service, Raleigh, NC, USA.
| | - Zeeshan Khan
- Department of Plant Biotechnology, Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Asad
- Department of Plant Biotechnology, Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Ayesha Imran
- Department of Plant Biotechnology, Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, 44000, Pakistan
| | - Muhammad Bilal Khan Niazi
- Department of Chemical Engineering, School of Chemical and Materials Engineering, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Raf Dewil
- Department of Chemical Engineering, KU Leuven, Belgium; Department of Engineering Science, University of Oxford, United Kingdom
| | - Ajaz Ahmad
- Department of Clinical Pharmacy, College of Pharmacy, King Saud University, Riyadh, 11451, Saudi Arabia
| | - Parvaiz Ahmad
- Department of Botany, GDC, Pulwama, 192301, Jammu and Kashmir, India.
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81
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Wright ACM, Boots B, Ings TC, Green DS. Impacts of pristine, aged and leachate of conventional and biodegradable plastics on plant growth and soil organic carbon. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:11766-11780. [PMID: 38224439 PMCID: PMC10869392 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-31838-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/16/2024]
Abstract
Plastic is an essential component of agriculture globally, becoming a concerning form of pollution. Biodegradable alternatives are gaining attention as a potential replacement for commonly used, non-degradable plastics, but there is little known about the impacts of biodegradable plastics as they age and potential leachates are released. In this study, different types (conventional: polyethylene and polypropylene and biodegradable: polyhydroxybutyrate and polylactic acid) of micro- and meso-films were added to soil at 0.1% (w/w) prior to being planted with Lolium perenne (perennial ryegrass) to evaluate the plant and soil biophysical responses in a pot experiment. Root and shoot biomass and chlorophyll content were reduced when soil was exposed to plastics, whether conventional or biodegradable, pristine, aged or when just their leachate was present. The pH and organic matter content of soil exposed to these plastics and their leachates was significantly reduced compared to control samples; furthermore, there was an increase in CO2 respiration rate from soil. In general, meso (> 5 mm) and micro (< 5 mm) plastic films did not differ in the impact on plants or soil. This study provides evidence that conventional and biodegradable plastics have both physical and chemical impacts on essential soil characteristics and the growth of L. perenne, potentially leading to wider effects on soil carbon cycling.
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Affiliation(s)
- Amy C M Wright
- Applied Ecology Research Group, School of Life Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, CB1 1PT, UK.
| | - Bas Boots
- Applied Ecology Research Group, School of Life Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, CB1 1PT, UK
| | - Thomas C Ings
- Applied Ecology Research Group, School of Life Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, CB1 1PT, UK
| | - Dannielle S Green
- Applied Ecology Research Group, School of Life Sciences, Anglia Ruskin University, Cambridge, CB1 1PT, UK
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82
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Yang S, Zhang Y, Chen Y, Zeng Y, Yan X, Tang X, Pu S. Studies on the transfer effect of aged polyethylene microplastics in soil-plant system. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 349:141001. [PMID: 38128740 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.141001] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/18/2023] [Revised: 12/18/2023] [Accepted: 12/19/2023] [Indexed: 12/23/2023]
Abstract
The widespread use of polyethylene (PE) agricultural films has led to a large accumulation of microplastics in soil, and the environmental effects of microplastics on soil-plants have received increasing attention. In the actual soil environment, microplastics undergo significant changes in their physicochemical properties due to aging, accompanied by complex ecological and environmental effects. However, the quantitative understanding of the environmental effects of microplastic aging in soil-plant systems is still unclear. Therefore, this study investigated the effects of aged and unaged PE microplastics on ecological functions and microplastic transfer mechanisms in soil-plant system, and confirmed the transport behavior of micrometer-sized microplastics (26 μm) within maize plants, expanding the upper size limit of existing studies on microplastic transport within plants. The accumulation of microplastics in maize was also quantitatively assessed in combination with the self-established method of Eu marked PE. The mobility ratio of microplastics from soil to roots, roots to stems, and stems to leaves was 1.07%, 0.76%, and 103.28%, respectively. This study provides a scientific understanding for the environmental effects of microplastics in soil-plants systems quantitatively.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuo Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Geohazard Prevention and Geoenvironment Protection (Chengdu University of Technology), 1#, Dongsanlu, Erxianqiao, Chengdu, 610059, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Ying Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Geohazard Prevention and Geoenvironment Protection (Chengdu University of Technology), 1#, Dongsanlu, Erxianqiao, Chengdu, 610059, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Yi Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Geohazard Prevention and Geoenvironment Protection (Chengdu University of Technology), 1#, Dongsanlu, Erxianqiao, Chengdu, 610059, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Yuping Zeng
- State Key Laboratory of Geohazard Prevention and Geoenvironment Protection (Chengdu University of Technology), 1#, Dongsanlu, Erxianqiao, Chengdu, 610059, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Xinyao Yan
- State Key Laboratory of Geohazard Prevention and Geoenvironment Protection (Chengdu University of Technology), 1#, Dongsanlu, Erxianqiao, Chengdu, 610059, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Xiao Tang
- State Key Laboratory of Geohazard Prevention and Geoenvironment Protection (Chengdu University of Technology), 1#, Dongsanlu, Erxianqiao, Chengdu, 610059, Sichuan, PR China
| | - Shengyan Pu
- State Key Laboratory of Geohazard Prevention and Geoenvironment Protection (Chengdu University of Technology), 1#, Dongsanlu, Erxianqiao, Chengdu, 610059, Sichuan, PR China; State Key Laboratory of Environmental Criteria and Risk Assessment, Chinese Research Academy of Environmental Sciences, Beijing, 100012, PR China.
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83
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Li K, Xiu X, Hao W. Microplastics in soils: Production, behavior process, impact on soil organisms, and related toxicity mechanisms. CHEMOSPHERE 2024; 350:141060. [PMID: 38159733 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2023.141060] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/16/2023] [Revised: 12/20/2023] [Accepted: 12/27/2023] [Indexed: 01/03/2024]
Abstract
In recent years, microplastics (MPs) pollution has become a hot ecological issue of global concern and MP pollution in soil is becoming increasingly serious. Studies have shown that MPs have adverse effects on soil biology and ecological functions. Although MPs are evident in soils, identifying their source, abundance, and types is difficult because of the complexity and variability of soil components. In addition, the effects of MPs on soil physicochemical properties (PCP), including direct effects such as direct interaction with soil particles and indirect effects such as the impact on soil organisms, have not been reported in a differentiated manner. Furthermore, at present, the soil ecological effects of MPs are mostly based on biological toxicity reports of their exudate or size effects, whereas the impact of their surface-specific properties (such as environmentally persistent free radicals, surface functional groups, charge, and curvature) on soil ecological functions is not fully understood. Considering this, this paper reviews the latest research findings on the production and behavioral processes of MPs in soil, the effects on soil PCP, the impacts on different soil organisms, and the related toxic mechanisms. The above discussion will enhance further understanding of the behavioral characteristics and risks of MPs in soil ecosystems and provide some theoretical basis for further clarification of the molecular mechanisms of the effects of MPs on soil organisms.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kun Li
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing, 210044, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Environment Monitoring and Pollution Control, Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Atmospheric Environment and Equipment Technology, China.
| | - Xiaojia Xiu
- Changwang School of Honors, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing, 210044, China
| | - Wanqi Hao
- School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nanjing University of Information Science and Technology, Nanjing, 210044, China; Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Atmospheric Environment Monitoring and Pollution Control, Jiangsu Collaborative Innovation Center of Atmospheric Environment and Equipment Technology, China
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84
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Cheng Y, Guo Y, Wang F, Zhang L. Effects of polyethylene microplastics stress on soil physicochemical properties mediated by earthworm Eisenia fetida. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE AND POLLUTION RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL 2024; 31:12071-12082. [PMID: 38227261 DOI: 10.1007/s11356-024-32007-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/17/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are widely distributed in soil environments, but their ecological risks are not fully understood. To fill this knowledge gap, incubation experiments were conducted to explore the physiological response of Eisenia foetida (E. fetida) to polyethylene MP stress and its effects on soil physicochemical properties. E. fetida was incubated in soils amended with MPs of two particle sizes (13 μm and 130 μm) at six concentrations (0, 1, 3, 6, 10 and 20 g MPs·kg-1 soil) under laboratory conditions. The toxicity of 13 μm MPs on the growth and survival of E. fetida was greater than that of 130 μm MPs. Excessive reactive oxygen species accumulation induced by high MP concentrations decreased superoxide dismutase activity and increased malondialdehyde content. Soil pH increased significantly in the 130 μm treatments. MPs increased the contents of soil organic carbon and available potassium. However, the presence of MPs did not significantly alter available phosphorus or nitrate nitrogen content. MP contamination in soil may have adverse impacts on the growth of earthworms, induce oxidative stress in earthworms, and change soil physicochemical properties. In addition, the effects of MPs are size-dependent and dose-dependent. This study provides new evidence for the ecological risks of MP pollution in the earthworm-soil systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanan Cheng
- School of Resources and Environment, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, 90 Eastern Hualan Avenue, Xinxiang, 453003, China.
| | - Yanling Guo
- School of Resources and Environment, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, 90 Eastern Hualan Avenue, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Fei Wang
- School of Resources and Environment, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, 90 Eastern Hualan Avenue, Xinxiang, 453003, China
| | - Lihao Zhang
- School of Resources and Environment, Henan Institute of Science and Technology, 90 Eastern Hualan Avenue, Xinxiang, 453003, China
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85
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Oda K, Wlodawer A. Development of Enzyme-Based Approaches for Recycling PET on an Industrial Scale. Biochemistry 2024. [PMID: 38285602 DOI: 10.1021/acs.biochem.3c00554] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/31/2024]
Abstract
Pollution by plastics such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyurethane (PUR), polyamide (PA), polystyrene (PS), and poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET) is now gaining worldwide attention as a critical environmental issue, closely linked to climate change. Among them, PET is particularly prone to hydrolysis, breaking down into its constituents, ethylene glycol (EG) and terephthalate (TPA). Biorecycling or bioupcycling stands out as one of the most promising methods for addressing PET pollution. For dealing with pollution by the macrosize PET, a French company Carbios has developed a pilot-scale plant for biorecycling waste PET beverage bottles into new bottles using derivatives of thermophilic leaf compost cutinase (LCC). However, this system still provides significant challenges in its practical implementation. For the micro- or nanosize PET pollution that poses significant human health risks, including cancer, no industrial-scale approach has been established so far, despite the need to develop such technologies. In this Perspective, we explore the enhancement of the low activity and thermostability of the enzyme PETase to match that of LCC, along with the potential application of microbes and enzymes for the treatment of waste PET as microplastics. Additionally, we discuss the shortcomings of the current biorecycling protocols from a life cycle assessment perspective, covering aspects such as the diversity of PET-hydrolyzing enzymes in nature, the catalytic mechanism for crystallized PET, and more. We also provide an overview of the Ideonella sakaiensis system, highlighting its ability to operate and grow at moderate temperatures, in contrast to high-temperature processes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kohei Oda
- Department of Applied Biology, Kyoto Institute of Technology, Matsugasaki, Sakyo-ku, Kyoto 606-8585, Japan
| | - Alexander Wlodawer
- Center for Structural Biology, National Cancer Institute, Frederick, Maryland 21702, United States
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86
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Corte Pause F, Urli S, Crociati M, Stradaioli G, Baufeld A. Connecting the Dots: Livestock Animals as Missing Links in the Chain of Microplastic Contamination and Human Health. Animals (Basel) 2024; 14:350. [PMID: 38275809 PMCID: PMC10812800 DOI: 10.3390/ani14020350] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/18/2023] [Revised: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 01/20/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024] Open
Abstract
Plastic pollution is a global diffuse threat, especially considering its fragmentation into microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs). Since the contamination of the aquatic environment is already well studied, most studies have now focused on the soil. Moreover, the number of studies on the exposure routes and toxic effects of MNPs in humans is continuously increasing. Although MNPs can cause inflammation, cytotoxicity, genotoxicity and immune toxicity in livestock animals, which can accumulate ingested/inhaled plastic particles and transfer them to humans through the food chain, research on this topic is still lacking. In considering farm animals as the missing link between soil/plant contamination and human health effects, this paper aims to describe their importance as carriers and vectors of MNP contamination. As research on this topic is in its early stages, there is no standard method to quantify the amount and the characteristics of MNPs in different matrices. Therefore, the creation of a common database where researchers can report data on MNP characteristics and quantification methods could be helpful for both method standardization and the future training of an AI tool for predicting the most abundant/dangerous polymer(s), thus supporting policy decisions to reduce plastic pollution and perfectly fitting with One Health principles.
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Affiliation(s)
- Francesca Corte Pause
- Department of Agricultural, Food, Environmental and Animal Sciences, University of Udine, Via Delle Scienze 206, 33100 Udine, Italy; (F.C.P.); (S.U.)
| | - Susy Urli
- Department of Agricultural, Food, Environmental and Animal Sciences, University of Udine, Via Delle Scienze 206, 33100 Udine, Italy; (F.C.P.); (S.U.)
| | - Martina Crociati
- Department of Veterinary Medicine, University of Perugia, Via S. Costanzo 4, 06126 Perugia, Italy;
- Centre for Perinatal and Reproductive Medicine, University of Perugia, 06129 Perugia, Italy
| | - Giuseppe Stradaioli
- Department of Agricultural, Food, Environmental and Animal Sciences, University of Udine, Via Delle Scienze 206, 33100 Udine, Italy; (F.C.P.); (S.U.)
| | - Anja Baufeld
- Research Institute for Farm Animal Biology (FBN), Wilhelm-Stahl-Allee 2, 18196 Dummerstorf, Germany
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87
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Zhang Z, Wang W, Liu J, Wu H. Discrepant responses of bacterial community and enzyme activities to conventional and biodegradable microplastics in paddy soil. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 909:168513. [PMID: 37977392 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168513] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 5.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/07/2023] [Revised: 11/09/2023] [Accepted: 11/09/2023] [Indexed: 11/19/2023]
Abstract
The prevalence of microplastics in soil ecosystems has raised concerns about their potential effects on soil properties. As promising alternatives to conventional plastics, biodegradable plastics have been increasingly applied in agricultural activities, which may release microplastics into the soil due to incomplete degradation. Compared to conventional microplastics, biodegradable microplastics in soil may induce different impacts on soil microbial properties, which have yet to be well studied. Through a 41-day microcosm experiment, we evaluated the differential effects of conventional (polypropylene, PP) and biodegradable (polylactic acid, PLA) microplastics on the geochemical properties, enzyme activities, and microbial community structure in paddy soil. Adding PLA or PP microplastics into soil significantly increased pH values and altered the contents of carbon and nitrogen nutrients. Exposure to microplastics significantly increased the activity of fluorescein diacetate hydrolase, but had varying effects on the activities of urease, sucrase, and alkaline phosphatase depending on microplastic types and doses. The addition of microplastics also influenced the structure of soil bacterial community, with Proteobacteria, Actinobacteriota, and Acidobacteriota being the dominant phyla. Significant differences in the genera of Pseudarthrobacter, Acidothermus, Bacillus, Aquisphaera, and Massilia were observed between treatments. Results of structural equation modeling (SEM) demonstrated that changes in soil carbon and nitrogen nutrients and pH values positively affected the bacterial community, while soil bacterial community as a whole exerted a negative impact on enzyme activities. FAPRPTAX analysis showed that the addition of microplastics altered the relative abundances of functional genes related to the metabolism of cellulose decomposition and ureolysis in paddy soil. Findings of this study clearly suggest that microplastic impacts on soil geochemical and microbial properties should be an integral part of future risk assessment and that to evaluate microplastic impacts, both the concentration and polymer type must be taken into account.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiyu Zhang
- State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 4888 Shengbei Street, Changchun 130012, China; Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 4888 Shengbei Street, Changchun 130012, China; Jilin Normal University, 1301 Haifeng Street, Siping 136000, China
| | - Wenfeng Wang
- State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 4888 Shengbei Street, Changchun 130012, China; Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 4888 Shengbei Street, Changchun 130012, China.
| | - Jiping Liu
- Jilin Normal University, 1301 Haifeng Street, Siping 136000, China
| | - Haitao Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Black Soils Conservation and Utilization, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 4888 Shengbei Street, Changchun 130012, China; Key Laboratory of Wetland Ecology and Environment, Northeast Institute of Geography and Agroecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, 4888 Shengbei Street, Changchun 130012, China.
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88
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Xu Y, Ou Q, van der Hoek JP, Liu G, Lompe KM. Photo-oxidation of Micro- and Nanoplastics: Physical, Chemical, and Biological Effects in Environments. ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY 2024; 58:991-1009. [PMID: 38166393 PMCID: PMC10795193 DOI: 10.1021/acs.est.3c07035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 12/15/2023] [Accepted: 12/15/2023] [Indexed: 01/04/2024]
Abstract
Micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) are attracting increasing attention due to their persistence and potential ecological risks. This review critically summarizes the effects of photo-oxidation on the physical, chemical, and biological behaviors of MNPs in aquatic and terrestrial environments. The core of this paper explores how photo-oxidation-induced surface property changes in MNPs affect their adsorption toward contaminants, the stability and mobility of MNPs in water and porous media, as well as the transport of pollutants such as organic pollutants (OPs) and heavy metals (HMs). It then reviews the photochemical processes of MNPs with coexisting constituents, highlighting critical factors affecting the photo-oxidation of MNPs, and the contribution of MNPs to the phototransformation of other contaminants. The distinct biological effects and mechanism of aged MNPs are pointed out, in terms of the toxicity to aquatic organisms, biofilm formation, planktonic microbial growth, and soil and sediment microbial community and function. Furthermore, the research gaps and perspectives are put forward, regarding the underlying interaction mechanisms of MNPs with coexisting natural constituents and pollutants under photo-oxidation conditions, the combined effects of photo-oxidation and natural constituents on the fate of MNPs, and the microbiological effect of photoaged MNPs, especially the biotransformation of pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanghui Xu
- Key
Laboratory of Drinking Water Science and Technology, Research Centre
for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese
Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, P. R. China
- Section
of Sanitary Engineering, Department of Water Management, Faculty of
Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Delft
University of Technology, Stevinweg 1, 2628 CN Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Qin Ou
- Key
Laboratory of Drinking Water Science and Technology, Research Centre
for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese
Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, P. R. China
- Section
of Sanitary Engineering, Department of Water Management, Faculty of
Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Delft
University of Technology, Stevinweg 1, 2628 CN Delft, The Netherlands
| | - Jan Peter van der Hoek
- Section
of Sanitary Engineering, Department of Water Management, Faculty of
Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Delft
University of Technology, Stevinweg 1, 2628 CN Delft, The Netherlands
- Waternet,
Department Research & Innovation,
P.O. Box 94370, 1090 GJ Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Gang Liu
- Key
Laboratory of Drinking Water Science and Technology, Research Centre
for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese
Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, P. R. China
- Section
of Sanitary Engineering, Department of Water Management, Faculty of
Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Delft
University of Technology, Stevinweg 1, 2628 CN Delft, The Netherlands
- University
of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, P. R. China
| | - Kim Maren Lompe
- Section
of Sanitary Engineering, Department of Water Management, Faculty of
Civil Engineering and Geosciences, Delft
University of Technology, Stevinweg 1, 2628 CN Delft, The Netherlands
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89
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Withana PA, Li J, Senadheera SS, Fan C, Wang Y, Ok YS. Machine learning prediction and interpretation of the impact of microplastics on soil properties. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 341:122833. [PMID: 37931672 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2023] [Revised: 09/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/29/2023] [Indexed: 11/08/2023]
Abstract
The annual microplastic (MP) release into soils is 4-23 times higher than that into oceans, significantly impacting soil quality. However, the mechanisms underlying how MPs impact soil properties remain largely unknown. Soil-MP interactions are complex because of soil heterogeneity and varying MP properties. This lack of understanding was exacerbated by the diverse experimental conditions and soil types used in this study. Predicting changes in soil properties in the presence of MPs is challenging, laborious, and time-consuming. To address these issues, machine learning was applied to fit datasets from peer-reviewed publications to predict and interpret how MPs influence soil properties, including pH, dissolved organic carbon (DOC), total P, NO3--N, NH4+-N, and acid phosphatase enzyme activity (acid P). Among the developed models, the gradient boost regression (GBR) model showed the highest R2 (0.86-0.99) compared to the decision tree and random forest models. The GBR model interpretation showed that MP properties contributed more than 50% to altering the acid P and NO3--N concentrations in soils, whereas they had a negligible impact on total P and 10-20% impact on soil pH, DOC, and NH4+-N. Specifically, the size of MPs was the dominant factor influencing acid P (89.3%), pH (71.6%), and DOC (44.5%) in soils. NO3--N was mainly affected by the MP type (52.0%). The NH4+-N was mainly affected by the MP dose (46.8%). The quantitative insights into the impact of MPs on soil properties of this study could aid in understanding the roles of MPs in soil systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Piumi Amasha Withana
- Korea Biochar Research Center, Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU) Sustainable Waste Management Program & Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea; International ESG Association (IESGA), Seoul, 06621, Republic of Korea
| | - Jie Li
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, 361021, China
| | - Sachini Supunsala Senadheera
- Korea Biochar Research Center, Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU) Sustainable Waste Management Program & Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea; International ESG Association (IESGA), Seoul, 06621, Republic of Korea
| | - Chuanfang Fan
- Korea Biochar Research Center, Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU) Sustainable Waste Management Program & Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea; College of Resources and Environment, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 101408, China
| | - Yin Wang
- CAS Key Laboratory of Urban Pollutant Conversion, Institute of Urban Environment, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Xiamen, 361021, China
| | - Yong Sik Ok
- Korea Biochar Research Center, Association of Pacific Rim Universities (APRU) Sustainable Waste Management Program & Division of Environmental Science and Ecological Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea; International ESG Association (IESGA), Seoul, 06621, Republic of Korea; Institute of Green Manufacturing Technology, College of Engineering, Korea University, Seoul, 02841, Republic of Korea.
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90
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Khan T, Hodson M. Polyethylene microplastic can adsorb phosphate but is unlikely to limit its availability in soil. Heliyon 2024; 10:e23179. [PMID: 38192803 PMCID: PMC10772576 DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e23179] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/18/2023] [Revised: 11/28/2023] [Accepted: 11/28/2023] [Indexed: 01/10/2024] Open
Abstract
In plant growth experiments, the presence of microplastics (MPs) often reduces plant growth. We conducted laboratory experiments to investigate the potential of microplastics to adsorb the major soil nutrient phosphate; adsorption to MPs was then compared to adsorption to soil. Adsorption experiments used two contrasting soils, pristine high density polyethylene and artificially weathered material (the same material but exposed to 185 nm UV light for 420 h over 105 days), phosphate solutions (dissolved KH2PO4) ranging from 0.2 to 200 mg L-1 and a solid (g) to liquid (mL) ratio of 1: 150 at different values of pH (2-12) and different concentrations of background electrolyte (0.00-0.10 M NaNO3). The adsorption data were best fitted to linear and Freundlich isotherms. In initial experiments where pH was not fixed and with a background electrolyte of 0.10 M NaNO3, Kd values ranged from 3.37 to 27.65 L kg-1, log Kf from 1.21 to 1.96 and 1/n from 0.36 to 0.84. Exposure of the MP to 185 nm UV radiation led to the appearance of a C=O functional group in the MP; the partition coefficient Kd, calculated from the linear isotherm did not increase but the logKf value derived from fits to the Freundlich isotherm increased by a factor of 1.5. Kd values for soils were 3-7.5 times greater than those for MPs and log Kf values 1.1-1.7 greater. In the experiments in which initial pH and ionic strength were varied, adsorption was similar across all treatments with adsorption parameters for the higher organic content soil sometimes having the highest values and the pristine microplastic the lowest. In the desorption experiments most of the adsorbed phosphate desorbed. Overall our findings indicate that despite their ability to adsorb phosphate, MPs are unlikely to control the fate and behaviour of phosphate in soil.
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Affiliation(s)
- T.F. Khan
- Environment and Geography Department, University of York, York, YO10 5NG, UK
- Department of Soil, Water and Environment, University of Dhaka, Dhaka 1000, Bangladesh
| | - M.E. Hodson
- Environment and Geography Department, University of York, York, YO10 5NG, UK
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91
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Ran T, Liao H, Zhao Y, Li J. Soil plastisphere interferes with soil bacterial community and their functions in the rhizosphere of pepper (Capsicum annuum L.). ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 270:115946. [PMID: 38194808 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2024.115946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/08/2023] [Revised: 12/11/2023] [Accepted: 01/03/2024] [Indexed: 01/11/2024]
Abstract
With a growing number of research reports on microplastics (MPs), there is increasing concern regarding MPs-induced contamination in soil ecological systems. Notwithstanding, the interaction between the plastisphere and rhizosphere microbial hotspots in soil-plant systems, as well as the diversity and composition of plastisphere microbial communities in such systems, remain largely unexplored. This study evaluated the response of rhizosphere bacterial communities to MPs at three growth stages of pepper and examined the bacterial communities present on MPs (plastisphere). The 16 S rRNA revealed that, under the stress of MPs, the Chao1 and Shannon index of the pepper soil bacterial community decreased. Meanwhile the relative abundance of Actinobacteriota was decreased, and that of Proteobacteria was increased. Furthermore, the plastisphere serves as a unique microbial habitat (niche) that recruits the colonization of specific bacterial groups, including potential plastic-degrading bacteria and potential pathogens (e.g., Massilia and Pseudomonas). Simultaneously, the plastisphere recruits specific bacteria that may impact the rhizosphere soil bacterial communities, thus indirectly affecting plant growth. Functional prediction using PICRUSt2 revealed higher activity in the plastisphere for Metabolism of terpenoids and polyketides, Human diseases, and Xenobiotics biodegradation and metabolism. Notably, the human diseases metabolic pathway exhibited increased activity, suggesting potential ecological risks associated with pathogens. These results highlighted that the plastisphere serves as a unique microbial habitat (niche) in the soil ecological systems, recruiting specific bacteria and potentially interfering with the surrounding soil microbial community, thereby influencing the functional characteristics of the soil ecological systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Taishan Ran
- Key Laboratory for Information System of Mountainous Areas and Protection of Ecological Environment of Guizhou Province, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550001, People's Republic of China
| | - Hongkai Liao
- Key Laboratory for Information System of Mountainous Areas and Protection of Ecological Environment of Guizhou Province, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550001, People's Republic of China.
| | - Yuxin Zhao
- Key Laboratory for Information System of Mountainous Areas and Protection of Ecological Environment of Guizhou Province, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550001, People's Republic of China
| | - Juan Li
- Department of Geography and Environmental Science, Guizhou Normal University, Guiyang 550025, People's Republic of China.
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92
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Wang W, Xie Y, Li H, Dong H, Li B, Guo Y, Wang Y, Guo X, Yin T, Liu X, Zhou W. Responses of lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) growth and soil properties to conventional non-biodegradable and new biodegradable microplastics. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 341:122897. [PMID: 37949158 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122897] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/12/2023] [Revised: 11/05/2023] [Accepted: 11/07/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Residual plastic films in soils are posing a potential threat to agricultural ecosystem. However, little is known about the impacts of microplastics (MPs) derived from biodegradable and non-biodegradable plastic films on plant-soil systems. Here, we carried out a pot experiment using soil-cultivated lettuce treated by two types of MPs, degradable poly(butylene adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBAT-MPs) and non-biodegradable polyethylene (PE-MPs). MPs resulted in different degrees of reduction in shoot biomass, chlorophyll content, photosynthetic parameters, and leaf contents of nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K), accelerated accumulation of hydrogen peroxide and superoxide, and increased malondialdehyde content in lettuce leaves. Moreover, MPs obviously decreased contents of total N, nitrate, ammonium, and available K in soils, and increased available P, thus altering soil nutrient availability. MPs also significantly decreased proportions of macroaggregates, and decreased soil electrical conductivity and microbial activity. PBAT-MPs had significantly greater impacts on oxidative damage, photosynthetic rate, soil aggregation, microbial activity, and soil ammonium than those of PE-MPs. Our results suggested that MPs caused oxidative damages, nutrient uptake inhibition, soil properties alteration, ultimately leading to growth reduction, and PBAT-MPs exhibited stronger impacts. Therefore, it is urgent to further study the ecological effects of MPs, especially biodegradable MPs, on soil-plant systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weixuan Wang
- College of Resource and Environment, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Yingmei Xie
- College of Resource and Environment, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Han Li
- College of Resource and Environment, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Hongmin Dong
- College of Resource and Environment, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Bin Li
- College of Resource and Environment, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Yunjie Guo
- College of Resource and Environment, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Yutong Wang
- College of Resource and Environment, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Xinrui Guo
- College of Resource and Environment, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Tao Yin
- College of Resource and Environment, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266000, China
| | - Xiaowei Liu
- Western Research Institute, Chinese Academy of Agricultural Sciences, Changji, 831100, China
| | - Weiwei Zhou
- College of Resource and Environment, Qingdao Agricultural University, Qingdao, 266000, China.
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93
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Huang P, Zhang Y, Hussain N, Lan T, Chen G, Tang X, Deng O, Yan C, Li Y, Luo L, Yang W, Gao X. A bibliometric analysis of global research hotspots and progress on microplastics in soil‒plant systems. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 341:122890. [PMID: 37944892 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.122890] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/07/2023] [Revised: 10/30/2023] [Accepted: 11/05/2023] [Indexed: 11/12/2023]
Abstract
Plastic pollution has become a global and persistent challenge, posing threats to ecosystems and organisms. In recent years, there has been a rapid increase in scientific research focused on understanding microplastics in the soil‒plant system. This surge is primarily driven by the direct impact of microplastics on agricultural productivity and their association with human activities. In this study, we conducted a comprehensive bibliometric analysis to provide an overview of the current research on microplastics in soil‒plant systems. We systematically analysed 192 articles and observed a significant rise in research interests since 2017. Notably, China has emerged as a leading contributor in terms of published papers, closely followed by Germany and the Netherlands. Through co-authorship network analysis, we identified 634 different institutions that participated in publishing papers in this field, with the Chinese Academy of Sciences having the most collaborations. In the co-occurrence keyword network, we identified four clusters focusing on the diversity of microplastics within the agroecosystem, transportation, and quantification of microplastics in soil, analysis of plastic contamination type and impact, and investigation of microplastic phytotoxicity. Furthermore, we identified ten research priorities, categorized into the effects of microplastics in "soil" and "plant". The research hotspots were found to be the effect of microplastics on soil physicochemical properties and the synergistic phytotoxicity of microplastics with other pollutants. Overall, this bibliometric analysis holds significant value, serving as an important reference point and offering valuable suggestions for future researchers in this rapidly advancing field.
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Affiliation(s)
- Pengxinyue Huang
- College of Resources, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Yanyan Zhang
- College of Resources, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China; State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, 211 Huimin Rd., Chengdu, 611130, China; College of Agronomy, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China; Key Laboratory of Investigation and Monitoring, Protection and Utilization for Cultivated Land Resources, Ministry of Natural Resources, China
| | - Naseer Hussain
- School of Life Sciences, B. S. Abdur Rahman Crescent Institute of Science and Technology, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, 600048, India
| | - Ting Lan
- College of Resources, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Guangdeng Chen
- College of Resources, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Xiaoyan Tang
- College of Resources, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Ouping Deng
- College of Resources, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Chaorui Yan
- College of Resources, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Yang Li
- College of Resources, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Ling Luo
- College of Environmental Sciences, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Wenyu Yang
- State Key Laboratory of Crop Gene Exploration and Utilization in Southwest China, 211 Huimin Rd., Chengdu, 611130, China; College of Agronomy, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China
| | - Xuesong Gao
- College of Resources, Sichuan Agricultural University, Chengdu, 611130, China; Key Laboratory of Investigation and Monitoring, Protection and Utilization for Cultivated Land Resources, Ministry of Natural Resources, China.
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94
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Wang Y, Xv X, Shao T, He Q, Guo Z, Wang Y, Guo Q, Xing B. A case on source to soil to solutions: Distribution characteristics of microplastics in farmland soil of the largest vegetable base in Northwest China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 907:167910. [PMID: 37866595 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167910] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/06/2023] [Revised: 09/21/2023] [Accepted: 10/16/2023] [Indexed: 10/24/2023]
Abstract
The wide application of facility agriculture accelerated the rapid development of agriculture. However, microplastics pollution in the soil caused by long-term residual agricultural film posed a significant threat to the soil ecosystem and human health. Jingyang County of Shaanxi Province was the largest vegetable planting base in northwest China. Soil samples of facility agriculture and non-facility agriculture were collected to investigate the distribution characteristics and risks of microplastics. The abundance of microplastics in Jingyang County ranged from 200.00 to 4733.33 n·kg-1, and the mean abundance was 1955.00 n·kg-1. Microplastics abundance in facility agriculture soil was higher than that in non-facility agriculture soil, and it increased with the growth of planting years. In general, the size of soil microplastics was mainly <100 μm and the abundance was negatively correlated with particle size. There were 30 types of chemical constituents in the microplastics detected, and PE (47.03 %) and PET (11.48 %) were the main ones. In addition, the types of microplastics in soil were identical with those detected in irrigation water and fertilizer, which provided another source of soil microplastics. All the sampling sites were ecological risk category I, and there was no carcinogenic risk to human health at present. In the future, the government should advocated and encouraged farmers to improve mulch recycling efficiency. Correspondingly, more positive action should be taken to the management on mulch recycling and the standards on placement of waste agricultural inputs. This study would provide foundation data for the research of microplastics pollution in farmland and the risk assessment of ecosystem and human health.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanhua Wang
- School of Geography and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China.
| | - Xinqi Xv
- School of Geography and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
| | - Tianjie Shao
- School of Geography and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
| | - Qianyao He
- School of Geography and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
| | - Ziyi Guo
- School of Geography and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
| | - Yuting Wang
- School of Geography and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
| | - Qing Guo
- School of Geography and Tourism, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an 710119, China
| | - Baoshan Xing
- Stockbridge School of Agriculture, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, United States.
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95
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Owusu SM, Adomako MO, Qiao H. Organic amendment in climate change mitigation: Challenges in an era of micro- and nanoplastics. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 907:168035. [PMID: 37907110 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168035] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/30/2023] [Revised: 10/18/2023] [Accepted: 10/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/02/2023]
Abstract
As a global strategy for mitigating climate change, organic amendments play critical roles in restoring stocks in carbon (C) depleted soils, preserving existing stocks to prevent further soil organic carbon (SOC) loss, and enhancing C sequestration. However, recent emerging evidence of a significant proportion of micro- and nanoplastics (M/NPs) occurrence in most organic substrates (e.g., compost manure, farmyard manure, and sewage sludge) compromises its role in climate change mitigation. Given the predicted surge of soil M/NPs proliferation in the coming years, we argued whether organic amendment remains a reliable climate change mitigation strategy. Toxicity effects of M/NPs influx within the soil matrix disrupt plants and their associated key microbial taxa responsible for crucial biogeochemical processes and restructuring of SOC, leading to increasing emissions of potent greenhouse gases (GHGs, e.g., CO2, CH4, and N2O) that feedback to aggravate the rapidly changing climate. Here, we summarize evidence based on literature that the discovery of M/NPs in organic substrates compromises its role in the climate change mitigation strategy. We briefly discuss the overview of synthetic fertilizers and their impact on SOC and atmospheric emissions. We discuss the role of organic amends in climate change mitigation and the emergence of M/NPs in it. We discuss M/NPs-induced damages to SOC and subsequent emissions of GHGs. We briefly highlight management approaches to clean organic substrates of M/NPs to improve their use in agrosystems and provide recommendations for future research studies. We found that organic amendment plays pivotal role in modulating the biotic and abiotic drivers responsible for climate mitigation. However, M/NPs in organic amendments weaken the regulatory mechanisms of organic amendments in plant-soil systems. We conclude that organic amendments of soils are critical for restoring SOC and mitigating the rapidly changing climate; yet, the discovery of M/NPs in organic substrates put their usage in a dilemma.
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Affiliation(s)
- Samuel Mensah Owusu
- Schoo of Business, Jinggangshan University, Qingyuan District, Ji'an City 343009, Jiangxi, China.
| | - Michael Opoku Adomako
- Institute of Wetland Ecology & Clone Ecology/Zhejiang Provincial Key Laboratory of Plant Evolutionary Ecology and Conservation, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318000, Zhejiang, China
| | - Hu Qiao
- Schoo of Business, Jinggangshan University, Qingyuan District, Ji'an City 343009, Jiangxi, China
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96
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Yu Z, Xu X, Guo L, Jin R, Lu Y. Uptake and transport of micro/nanoplastics in terrestrial plants: Detection, mechanisms, and influencing factors. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 907:168155. [PMID: 37898208 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168155] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/26/2023] [Revised: 10/24/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/30/2023]
Abstract
The pervasive dispersion of micro/nanoplastics in various environmental matrices has raised concerns regarding their potential intrusion into terrestrial ecosystems and, notably, plants. In this comprehensive review, we focus on the interaction between these minute plastic particles and plants. We delve into the current methodologies available for detecting micro/nanoplastics in plant tissues, assess the accumulation and distribution of these particles within roots, stems, and leaves, and elucidate the specific uptake and transport mechanisms, including endocytosis, apoplastic transport, crack-entry mode, and stomatal entry. Moreover, uptake and transport of micro/nanoplastics are complex processes influenced by multiple factors, including particle size, surface charge, mechanical properties, and physiological characteristics of plants, as well as external environmental conditions. In conclusion, this review paper provided valuable insights into the current understanding of these mechanisms, highlighting the complexity of the processes and the multitude of factors that can influence them. Further research in this area is warranted to fully comprehend the fate of micro/nanoplastics in plants and their implications for environmental sustainability.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhefu Yu
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China; Key Laboratory of Pollution Exposure and Health Intervention of Zhejiang Province, College of Biological and Environment Engineering, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou 310015, China; College of Environment, Zhejiang University of Technology, Hangzhou 310032, China
| | - Xiaolu Xu
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Exposure and Health Intervention of Zhejiang Province, College of Biological and Environment Engineering, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou 310015, China
| | - Liang Guo
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Exposure and Health Intervention of Zhejiang Province, College of Biological and Environment Engineering, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou 310015, China
| | - Rong Jin
- School of Environment, Hangzhou Institute for Advanced Study, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hangzhou 310024, China
| | - Yin Lu
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Exposure and Health Intervention of Zhejiang Province, College of Biological and Environment Engineering, Zhejiang Shuren University, Hangzhou 310015, China.
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97
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Zeb A, Liu W, Ali N, Shi R, Wang Q, Wang J, Li J, Yin C, Liu J, Yu M, Liu J. Microplastic pollution in terrestrial ecosystems: Global implications and sustainable solutions. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 461:132636. [PMID: 37778309 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 17.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/03/2023] [Revised: 09/24/2023] [Accepted: 09/25/2023] [Indexed: 10/03/2023]
Abstract
Microplastic (MPs) pollution has become a global environmental concern with significant impacts on ecosystems and human health. Although MPs have been widely detected in aquatic environments, their presence in terrestrial ecosystems remains largely unexplored. This review examines the multifaceted issues of MPs pollution in terrestrial ecosystem, covering various aspects from additives in plastics to global legislation and sustainable solutions. The study explores the widespread distribution of MPs worldwide and their potential antagonistic interactions with co-occurring contaminants, emphasizing the need for a holistic understanding of their environmental implications. The influence of MPs on soil and plants is discussed, shedding light on the potential consequences for terrestrial ecosystems and agricultural productivity. The aging mechanisms of MPs, including photo and thermal aging, are elucidated, along with the factors influencing their aging process. Furthermore, the review provides an overview of global legislation addressing plastic waste, including bans on specific plastic items and levies on single-use plastics. Sustainable solutions for MPs pollution are proposed, encompassing upstream approaches such as bioplastics, improved waste management practices, and wastewater treatment technologies, as well as downstream methods like physical and biological removal of MPs. The importance of international collaboration, comprehensive legislation, and global agreements is underscored as crucial in tackling this pervasive environmental challenge. This review may serve as a valuable resource for researchers, policymakers, and stakeholders, providing a comprehensive assessment of the environmental impact and potential risks associated with MPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Aurang Zeb
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Weitao Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China.
| | - Nouman Ali
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Ruiying Shi
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Qi Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Jianling Wang
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Jiantao Li
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Chuan Yin
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Jinzheng Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Miao Yu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China
| | - Jianv Liu
- MOE Key Laboratory of Pollution Processes and Environmental Criteria, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Nankai University, Tianjin 300350, China; Tianjin Engineering Research Center of Environmental Diagnosis and Contamination Remediation, Tianjin 300350, China
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98
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Li Z, Liu W, Rahaman MH, Chen Z, Yan J, Zhai J. Polystyrene microplastics accumulation in lab-scale vertical flow constructed wetlands: impacts and fate. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 461:132576. [PMID: 37738848 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132576] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/21/2023] [Revised: 08/29/2023] [Accepted: 09/16/2023] [Indexed: 09/24/2023]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are ubiquitous pollutants that significantly threaten organisms and ecosystems. Constructed wetlands (CWs), a nature-based treatment technology, can effectively remove MPs from wastewater. However, the responses of CWs when exposed to MPs remain unclear. In this study, lab-scale vertical flow constructed wetlands (VFCWs) were installed for receiving polystyrene (PS) MPs at concentrations of 100 μg/L and 1000 μg/L. The results showed that exposure to PS-MPs has no effects on COD and TP removal in VFCWs, but TN removal decreased by 3.69-5.37 %. Further investigation revealed that PS-MPs significantly impacted microbial communities and metabolic functions. The abundances of predominant nitrifiers (Nitrospira and Nitrosomonas) and denitrifiers (Nakamurella, Bradyrhizobium, and Bacillus) in VFCWs were significantly reduced, aligning with the responses of key enzymes. The presence of PS-MPs also decreased nitrogen removal by plant uptake, leading to decreased plant biomass and chlorophyll by 39.32-48.75 % and 5.92-32.19 %, respectively. Notably, > 90 % removal rates were observed for PS-MPs within VFCWs. In addition to PS-MPs interception by VFCWs substrate, the increase of released benzenes indicated that the PS-MPs biodegradation occurred. Such insights are vital for developing sustainable solutions to mitigate MPs' adverse effects on ecosystems.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhenchen Li
- College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China
| | - Wenbo Liu
- Institute for Smart City of Chongqing University in Liyang, Chongqing University, Jiangsu 213300, China
| | - Md Hasibur Rahaman
- Institute for Smart City of Chongqing University in Liyang, Chongqing University, Jiangsu 213300, China
| | - Zhongbing Chen
- Department of Applied Ecology, Faculty of Environmental Sciences, Czech University of Life Sciences Prague, Kamýcka 129, Praha-Suchdol 16500, Czech Republic
| | - Jixia Yan
- College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China
| | - Jun Zhai
- College of Environment and Ecology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400045, China; Institute for Smart City of Chongqing University in Liyang, Chongqing University, Jiangsu 213300, China.
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99
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Bodor A, Feigl G, Kolossa B, Mészáros E, Laczi K, Kovács E, Perei K, Rákhely G. Soils in distress: The impacts and ecological risks of (micro)plastic pollution in the terrestrial environment. ECOTOXICOLOGY AND ENVIRONMENTAL SAFETY 2024; 269:115807. [PMID: 38091673 DOI: 10.1016/j.ecoenv.2023.115807] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/10/2023] [Revised: 11/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/08/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Plastics have revolutionised human industries, thanks to their versatility and durability. However, their extensive use, coupled with inadequate waste disposal, has resulted in plastic becoming ubiquitous in every environmental compartment, posing potential risks to the economy, human health and the environment. Additionally, under natural conditions, plastic waste breaks down into microplastics (MPs<5 mm). The increasing quantity of MPs exerts a significant burden on the soil environment, particularly in agroecosystems, presenting a new stressor for soil-dwelling organisms. In this review, we delve into the effects of MP pollution on soil ecosystems, with a specific attention to (a) MP transport to soils, (b) potential changes of MPs under environmental conditions, (c) and their interaction with the physical, chemical and biological components of the soil. We aim to shed light on the alterations in the distribution, activity, physiology and growth of soil flora, fauna and microorganisms in response to MPs, offering an ecotoxicological perspective for environmental risk assessment of plastics. The effects of MPs are strongly influenced by their intrinsic traits, including polymer type, shape, size and abundance. By exploring the multifaceted interactions between MPs and the soil environment, we provide critical insights into the consequences of plastic contamination. Despite the growing body of research, there remain substantial knowledge gaps regarding the long-term impact of MPs on the soil. Our work underscores the importance of continued research efforts and the adoption of standardised approaches to address plastic pollution and ensure a sustainable future for our planet.
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Affiliation(s)
- Attila Bodor
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary; Institute of Biophysics, HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary.
| | - Gábor Feigl
- Department of Plant Biology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Bálint Kolossa
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Enikő Mészáros
- Department of Plant Biology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Krisztián Laczi
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Etelka Kovács
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Katalin Perei
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary
| | - Gábor Rákhely
- Department of Biotechnology, University of Szeged, Szeged, Hungary; Institute of Biophysics, HUN-REN Biological Research Centre, Szeged, Hungary
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100
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Dong D, Guo Z, Wu F, Yang X, Li J. Plastic residues alter soil microbial community compositions and metabolite profiles under realistic conditions. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 906:167352. [PMID: 37769723 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.167352] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/14/2023] [Revised: 09/19/2023] [Accepted: 09/23/2023] [Indexed: 10/02/2023]
Abstract
Wide usage of plastic coupled with mismanagement has created a humongous environmental hazard threatening entire ecosystems. To date, the potential effects of plastic debris-induced soil nutrition substance changes and the relevant microbial metabolic behavior remain unclear. Here, we studied the effect of plastic films polyethylene and polylactic acid in differential soil environments (farmland, woodland, and wetland) for 120 days. Soil enzyme activities (urease, neutral phosphatase, and catalase) and nutrition substance (NH4+-N, available P, available K, and soil organic matter) present obvious variations in polylactic acid groups compared to polyethylene-treated samples. 16S rRNA gene sequencing indicates that several bacteria abundance such as Bacteroidales, Actinobacteriota, Nitrososphaeraceae, Pyrinomonadalcs, Muribaculaceae, exhibited obvious up-regulation or down-regulation, and simultaneously, the carbon, nitrogen, and phosphorus cycling relevant species Bryobacter, Bradyrhizobium, and Sphingomonas, expressed wider margin of down-regulation in abundance in plastic treatment soil samples. As a result, the abundance of metabolites including sugar, amino acid, and fatty acids, which may associated with nutrition substance metabolic pathways, were significantly altered in the stress of plastic. These findings provide valuable information on the environmental effects of plastics, and the relationships of subsequent nutrition substance changes and microbial metabolic behavior.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dazhuang Dong
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China; Anhui Engineering Research Center of Industrial Wastewater Treatment and Resource Recovery, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
| | - Zhi Guo
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China; Anhui Engineering Research Center of Industrial Wastewater Treatment and Resource Recovery, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China.
| | - Feiyan Wu
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China; Anhui Engineering Research Center of Industrial Wastewater Treatment and Resource Recovery, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
| | - Xue Yang
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China; Anhui Engineering Research Center of Industrial Wastewater Treatment and Resource Recovery, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
| | - Jie Li
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China; Anhui Engineering Research Center of Industrial Wastewater Treatment and Resource Recovery, Hefei University of Technology, Hefei 230009, China
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