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Meng J, Diao C, Cui Z, Li Z, Zhao J, Zhang H, Hu M, Xu J, Jiang Y, Haider G, Yang D, Shan S, Chen H. Unravelling the influence of microplastics with/without additives on radish (Raphanus sativus) and microbiota in two agricultural soils differing in pH. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 478:135535. [PMID: 39153301 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.135535] [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: 05/16/2024] [Revised: 08/12/2024] [Accepted: 08/13/2024] [Indexed: 08/19/2024]
Abstract
Here we investigated the effects of three types of microplastics (MPs), i.e., PS (P), ABS (B), PVC (V), and each with additive (MPAs) (PA, BA, and VA), on soil health, microbial community, and plant growth in two acidic and slightly alkaline soils. Incubation experiment revealed that although MPs and MPAs consistently stimulated soil nutrients and heavy metals (e.g., Mn, Cu) in weakly alkaline soils, only BA and VA led to increase in soil nutrients and heavy metals in acidic soils. This suggests distinct response patterns in the two soils depending on their initial pH. Concerning microorganisms, MPs and MPAs reduced the assembly degree of bacteria in acidic soils, with a reduction of Chloroflexi and Acidobacteriota but an increase of WPS-2 in VA. Culture experiment showed consistent positive or negative responses in radish seed germination, roots, and antioxidant activity across MPs and MPAs types in both soils, while the responses of seed heavy metals (e.g., Cr, Cd) were consistent in acidic soils but dependent on MPs and MPAs types in alkaline soils. Therefore, our study strongly suggests that the effects of MPs on soil-microbial-plant systems were highly dependent on initial soil characteristics and the types of MPs with plastic additives.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jun Meng
- Key Laboratory of Recycling and Eco-Treatment of Waste Biomass of Zhejiang Province, School of Environment and Natural Resources, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou 310023, China
| | - Chengmei Diao
- Key Laboratory of Recycling and Eco-Treatment of Waste Biomass of Zhejiang Province, School of Environment and Natural Resources, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou 310023, China
| | - Zhonghua Cui
- Key Laboratory of Recycling and Eco-Treatment of Waste Biomass of Zhejiang Province, School of Environment and Natural Resources, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou 310023, China
| | - Zhangtao Li
- Key Laboratory of Recycling and Eco-Treatment of Waste Biomass of Zhejiang Province, School of Environment and Natural Resources, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou 310023, China
| | - Jiayi Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Ecology, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China.
| | - Haibo Zhang
- School of Environment and Resources, Zhejiang A&F Forestry University, Hangzhou 311300, China
| | - Minjun Hu
- Agricultural Technology Extension Center, Agriculture and Rural Affairs Bureau of Fuyang District, Hangzhou 311499, China
| | - Jun Xu
- Agricultural Technology Extension Center, Agriculture and Rural Affairs Bureau of Fuyang District, Hangzhou 311499, China
| | - Yugen Jiang
- Agricultural Technology Extension Center, Agriculture and Rural Affairs Bureau of Fuyang District, Hangzhou 311499, China
| | - Ghulam Haider
- Atta-ur-Rahman School of Applied Biosciences, National University of Sciences and Technology, Islamabad, Pakistan
| | - Dong Yang
- Quality and Fertilizer Administration Bureau of Zhejiang Province, Hangzhou 310020, China
| | - Shengdao Shan
- Key Laboratory of Recycling and Eco-Treatment of Waste Biomass of Zhejiang Province, School of Environment and Natural Resources, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou 310023, China
| | - Huaihai Chen
- State Key Laboratory of Biocontrol, School of Ecology, Shenzhen Campus of Sun Yat-sen University, Shenzhen 518107, China.
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2
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Wu S, Cai C, Wang W, Bao M, Huang J, Dai Y, Wang Y, Cheng S. The interaction of microplastic and heavy metal in bioretention cell: Contributions of water-soil-plant system. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 361:124853. [PMID: 39218197 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.124853] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/27/2024] [Revised: 08/04/2024] [Accepted: 08/27/2024] [Indexed: 09/04/2024]
Abstract
The effectiveness of bioretention cells for heavy metals (HMs) and microplastics (MPs) removal from stormwater runoff has been demonstrated. Knowledge of the mechanisms that dictate the interactions between MPs and HMs would be helpful in pollution control. In this study, the performances of different water-soil-plant bioretention cells for HMs removal through the interception of polyethylene MPs (PE-MPs) were investigated. The results showed that PE-MPs bound to HMs and preferentially tended to bind to Pb (32%-44%) in the complex HMs (Cu, Zn, Cd, and Pb). This could be the reason that the concentration of Pb significantly increased in the effluent under low-intensity simulated rainfall events over a long duration. The accumulation of 1.49 g/kg PE-MPs caused a significant soil pH value decrease and a notable soil zeta potential increase in the bioretention cell, while the low sand/silt ratio media buffered this process. The retention of PE-MPs increased 138.5% in the 0-10 cm soil surface layer when the sand/silt ratio reduced from 2:1 to 1:1 and planted with Canna indica. Meanwhile, PE-MPs amplified the instability of Zn removal in bioretention cells under low-intensity rainfall events in long-duration, high silt percentage substrate and vegetation coverage. The study would contribute to developing a long-term management program for PE-MPs and HMs trapped in bioretention cells to reduce the risk of pollution transport.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shuangqi Wu
- Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment, Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Chenglin Cai
- Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment, Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Weicong Wang
- Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment, Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Mengrong Bao
- Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment, Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Jianshi Huang
- Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment, Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China
| | - Yunv Dai
- Department of Ecology, Engineering Research Center for Tropical and Subtropical Aquatic Ecological Engineering, Ministry of Education, Jinan University, Guangzhou, 510632, China
| | - Ying Wang
- Key Laboratory of National Forestry and Grassland Administration on Ecological Landscaping of Challenging Urban Sites, Shanghai Academy of Landscape Architecture Science and Planning, Shanghai, 200232, China
| | - Shuiping Cheng
- Key Laboratory of Yangtze River Water Environment, Ministry of Education, College of Environmental Science and Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China; Institute of Eco-Environmental Engineering, Tongji University, Shanghai, 200092, China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai, 200092, China.
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3
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Chen L, Qiu T, Huang F, Zeng Y, Cui Y, Chen J, White JC, Fang L. Micro/nanoplastics pollution poses a potential threat to soil health. GLOBAL CHANGE BIOLOGY 2024; 30:e17470. [PMID: 39149882 DOI: 10.1111/gcb.17470] [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: 04/16/2024] [Revised: 06/29/2024] [Accepted: 07/29/2024] [Indexed: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Micro/nanoplastic (MNP) pollution in soil ecosystems has become a growing environmental concern globally. However, the comprehensive impacts of MNPs on soil health have not yet been explored. We conducted a hierarchical meta-analysis of over 5000 observations from 228 articles to assess the broad impacts of MNPs on soil health parameters (represented by 20 indicators relevant to crop growth, animal health, greenhouse gas emissions, microbial diversity, and pollutant transfer) and whether the impacts depended on MNP properties. We found that MNP exposure significantly inhibited crop biomass and germination, and reduced earthworm growth and survival rate. Under MNP exposure, the emissions of soil greenhouse gases (CO2, N2O, and CH4) were significantly increased. MNP exposure caused a decrease in soil bacteria diversity. Importantly, the magnitude of impact of the soil-based parameters was dependent on MNP dose and size; however, there is no significant difference in MNP type (biodegradable and conventional MNPs). Moreover, MNPs significantly reduced As uptake by plants, but promoted plant Cd accumulation. Using an analytical hierarchy process, we quantified the negative impacts of MNP exposure on soil health as a mean value of -10.2% (-17.5% to -2.57%). Overall, this analysis provides new insights for assessing potential risks of MNP pollution to soil ecosystem functions.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Chen
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Tianyi Qiu
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Fengyu Huang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Yi Zeng
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
| | - Yongxing Cui
- Institute of Biology, Freie Universität Berlin, Berlin, Germany
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Jason C White
- The Connecticut Agricultural Experiment Station, New Haven, Connecticut, USA
| | - Linchuan Fang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China
- School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
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4
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Li Y, Shi X, Zeng M, Qin P, Fu M, Luo S, Tang C, Mo C, Yu F. Effect of polyethylene microplastics on antibiotic resistance genes: A comparison based on different soil types and plant types. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 472:134581. [PMID: 38743972 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134581] [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: 02/24/2024] [Revised: 04/13/2024] [Accepted: 05/08/2024] [Indexed: 05/16/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and antibiotic resistance genes (ARGs) are two types of contaminants that are widely present in the soil environment. MPs can act as carriers of microbes, facilitating the colonization and spread of ARGs and thus posing potential hazards to ecosystem safety and human health. In the present study, we explored the microbial networks and ARG distribution characteristics in different soil types (heavy metal (HM)-contaminated soil and agricultural soil planted with different plants: Bidens pilosa L., Ipomoea aquatica F., and Brassica chinensis L.) after the application of MPs and evaluated environmental factors, potential microbial hosts, and ARGs. The microbial communities in the three rhizosphere soils were closely related to each other, and the modularity of the microbial networks was greater than 0.4. Moreover, the core taxa in the microbial networks, including Actinobacteriota, Proteobacteria, and Myxococcota, were important for resisting environmental stress. The ARG resistance mechanisms were dominated by antibiotic efflux in all three rhizosphere soils. Based on the annotation results, the MP treatments induced changes in the relative abundance of microbes carrying ARGs, and the G1-5 treatment significantly increased the abundance of MuxB in Verrucomicrobia, Elusimicrobia, Actinobacteria, Planctomycetes, and Acidobacteria. Path analysis showed that changes in MP particle size and dosage may indirectly affect soil enzyme activities by changing pH, which affects microbes and ARGs. We suggest that MPs may provide surfaces for ARG accumulation, leading to ARG enrichment in plants. In conclusion, our results demonstrate that MPs, as potentially persistent pollutants, can affect different types of soil environments and that the presence of ARGs may cause substantial environmental risks.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yi Li
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Guilin, China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Processes and Remediation in Ecologically Fragile Regions, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China
| | - Xinwei Shi
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Guilin, China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Processes and Remediation in Ecologically Fragile Regions, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China
| | - Meng Zeng
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Guilin, China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China
| | - Peiqing Qin
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Guilin, China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China
| | - Mingyue Fu
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Guilin, China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China
| | - Shiyu Luo
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Guilin, China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China
| | - Chijian Tang
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Guilin, China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China
| | - Cuiju Mo
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Guilin, China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China
| | - Fangming Yu
- Key Laboratory of Ecology of Rare and Endangered Species and Environmental Protection (Guangxi Normal University), Ministry of Education, Guilin, China; College of Environment and Resources, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China; Guangxi Key Laboratory of Environmental Processes and Remediation in Ecologically Fragile Regions, Guangxi Normal University, Guilin, China.
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5
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Yu H, Liu X, Qiu X, Sun T, Cao J, Lv M, Sui Z, Wang Z, Jiao S, Xu Y, Wang F. Discrepant soil microbial community and C cycling function responses to conventional and biodegradable microplastics. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 470:134176. [PMID: 38569347 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134176] [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: 01/10/2024] [Revised: 03/14/2024] [Accepted: 03/29/2024] [Indexed: 04/05/2024]
Abstract
Biodegradable microplastics (MPs) are promising alternatives to conventional MPs and are of high global concern. However, their discrepant effects on soil microorganisms and functions are poorly understood. In this study, polyethylene (PE) and polylactic acid (PLA) MPs were selected to investigate the different effects on soil microbiome and C-cycling genes using high-throughput sequencing and real-time quantitative PCR, as well as the morphology and functional group changes of MPs, using scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and the driving factors were identified. The results showed that distinct taxa with potential for MP degradation and nitrogen cycling were enriched in soils with PLA and PE, respectively. PLA, smaller size (150-180 µm), and 5% (w/w) of MPs enhanced the network complexity compared with PE, larger size (250-300 µm), and 1% (w/w) of MPs, respectively. PLA increased β-glucosidase by up to 2.53 times, while PE (150-180 µm) reduced by 38.26-44.01% and PE (250-300 µm) increased by 19.00-22.51% at 30 days. Amylase was increased by up to 5.83 times by PLA (150-180 µm) but reduced by 40.26-62.96% by PLA (250-300 µm) and 16.11-43.92% by PE. The genes cbbL, cbhI, abfA, and Lac were enhanced by 37.16%- 1.99 times, 46.35%- 26.46 times, 8.41%- 69.04%, and 90.81%- 5.85 times by PLA except for PLA1B/5B at 30 days. These effects were associated with soil pH, NO3--N, and MP biodegradability. These findings systematically provide an understanding of the impact of biodegradable MPs on the potential for global climate change.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hui Yu
- National Engineering Research Center for Efficient Utilization of Soil and Fertilizer Resources, College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian 271018, Shandong, China
| | - Xin Liu
- National Engineering Research Center for Efficient Utilization of Soil and Fertilizer Resources, College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian 271018, Shandong, China
| | - Xiaoguo Qiu
- Shandong Provincial Eco-Environment Monitoring Center, Jinan 250101, China
| | - Tao Sun
- National Engineering Research Center for Efficient Utilization of Soil and Fertilizer Resources, College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian 271018, Shandong, China
| | - Jianfeng Cao
- Taian Ecological Environment Monitoring Center of Shandong Province, Taian 271000, China
| | - Ming Lv
- National Engineering Research Center for Efficient Utilization of Soil and Fertilizer Resources, College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian 271018, Shandong, China
| | - Zhiyuan Sui
- National Engineering Research Center for Efficient Utilization of Soil and Fertilizer Resources, College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian 271018, Shandong, China
| | - Zhizheng Wang
- National Engineering Research Center for Efficient Utilization of Soil and Fertilizer Resources, College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian 271018, Shandong, China
| | - Shuying Jiao
- National Engineering Research Center for Efficient Utilization of Soil and Fertilizer Resources, College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian 271018, Shandong, China
| | - Yuxin Xu
- National Engineering Research Center for Efficient Utilization of Soil and Fertilizer Resources, College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian 271018, Shandong, China.
| | - Fenghua Wang
- National Engineering Research Center for Efficient Utilization of Soil and Fertilizer Resources, College of Resources and Environment, Shandong Agricultural University, Taian 271018, Shandong, China.
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6
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Aralappanavar VK, Mukhopadhyay R, Yu Y, Liu J, Bhatnagar A, Praveena SM, Li Y, Paller M, Adyel TM, Rinklebe J, Bolan NS, Sarkar B. Effects of microplastics on soil microorganisms and microbial functions in nutrients and carbon cycling - A review. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 924:171435. [PMID: 38438042 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.171435] [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: 10/11/2023] [Revised: 03/01/2024] [Accepted: 03/01/2024] [Indexed: 03/06/2024]
Abstract
The harmful effects of microplastics (MPs) pollution in the soil ecosystem have drawn global attention in recent years. This paper critically reviews the effects of MPs on soil microbial diversity and functions in relation to nutrients and carbon cycling. Reports suggested that both plastisphere (MP-microbe consortium) and MP-contaminated soils had distinct and lower microbial diversity than that of non-contaminated soils. Alteration in soil physicochemical properties and microbial interactions within the plastisphere facilitated the enrichment of plastic-degrading microorganisms, including those involved in carbon (C) and nutrient cycling. MPs conferred a significant increase in the relative abundance of soil nitrogen (N)-fixing and phosphorus (P)-solubilizing bacteria, while decreased the abundance of soil nitrifiers and ammonia oxidisers. Depending on soil types, MPs increased bioavailable N and P contents and nitrous oxide emission in some instances. Furthermore, MPs regulated soil microbial functional activities owing to the combined toxicity of organic and inorganic contaminants derived from MPs and contaminants frequently encountered in the soil environment. However, a thorough understanding of the interactions among soil microorganisms, MPs and other contaminants still needs to develop. Since currently available reports are mostly based on short-term laboratory experiments, field investigations are needed to assess the long-term impact of MPs (at environmentally relevant concentration) on soil microorganisms and their functions under different soil types and agro-climatic conditions.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Raj Mukhopadhyay
- Department of Chemistry, Mellon College of Science, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh 15213, United States
| | - Yongxiang Yu
- Research Center for Environmental Ecology and Engineering, Key Laboratory of Green Chemical Engineering Process of Ministry of Education, School of Environmental Ecology and Biological Engineering, Wuhan Institute of Technology, Wuhan 430205, China
| | - Jingnan Liu
- Key Laboratory of Water and Sediment Sciences of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Amit Bhatnagar
- Department of Separation Science, LUT School of Engineering Science, LUT University, Sammonkatu 12, FI-50130 Mikkeli, Finland
| | - Sarva Mangala Praveena
- Department of Environmental and Occupational Health, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, Universiti Putra Malaysia, 43400 UPM Serdang, Selangor Darul Ehsan, Malaysia
| | - Yang Li
- Key Laboratory of Water and Sediment Sciences of Ministry of Education, State Key Laboratory of Water Environment Simulation, School of Environment, Beijing Normal University, Beijing 100875, China
| | - Mike Paller
- Aquatic Biology Consultants, Inc., 35 Bungalow Ct., Aiken, SC 29803, USA
| | - Tanveer M Adyel
- STEM, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes, SA 5095, Australia
| | - Jörg Rinklebe
- University of Wuppertal, School of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Institute of Foundation Engineering, Water- and Waste-Management, Laboratory of Soil- and Groundwater-Management, Pauluskirchstraße 7, 42285 Wuppertal, Germany
| | - Nanthi S Bolan
- UWA School of Agriculture and Environment, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia 6001, Australia; The UWA Institute of Agriculture, The University of Western Australia, Perth, Western Australia 6001, Australia
| | - Binoy Sarkar
- Future Industries Institute, University of South Australia, Mawson Lakes, SA 5095, Australia.
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7
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Chen L, Chang N, Qiu T, Wang N, Cui Q, Zhao S, Huang F, Chen H, Zeng Y, Dong F, Fang L. Meta-analysis of impacts of microplastics on plant heavy metal(loid) accumulation. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 348:123787. [PMID: 38548159 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123787] [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: 02/05/2024] [Revised: 03/11/2024] [Accepted: 03/12/2024] [Indexed: 04/07/2024]
Abstract
The co-occurrence of microplastics (MPs) and heavy metal(loid)s (HMs) has attracted growing scientific interest because of their wide distribution and environmental toxicity. Nevertheless, the interactions between MPs and HMs in soil-plant systems remain unclear. We conducted a meta-analysis with 3226 observations from 87 independent studies to quantify the impact of MPs addition on the plant biomass and HMS accumulation. Co-occurrence of MPs and HMs (except for As) induced synergistic toxicity to plant growth. MPs promoted their uptake in the shoot by 11.0% for Cd, 30.0% for Pb, and 47.1% for Cu, respectively. In contrast, MPs caused a significant decrease (22.6%, 17.9-26.9%) in the shoot As accumulation. The type and dose of MPs were correlated with the accumulation of HMs. MPs increased available concentrations of Cd, Pb, and Cu, but decreased available As concentration in soils. Meanwhile, MPs addition significantly lowered soil pH. These findings may provide explanations for MPs-mediated effects on influencing the accumulation of HMs in plants. Using a machine learning approach, we revealed that soil pH and total HMs concentration are the major contributors affecting their accumulation in shoot. Overall, our study indicated that MPs may increase the environmental risks of HMs in agroecosystems, especially metal cations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Li Chen
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Nan Chang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Tianyi Qiu
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Na Wang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Qingliang Cui
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Shuling Zhao
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Fengyu Huang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China; College of Environment and Resources, Southwest University of Science & Technology, Mianyang, 621010, China
| | - Hansong Chen
- College of Xingzhi, Zhejiang Normal University, Jinhua, 321000, China
| | - Yi Zeng
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China
| | - Faqin Dong
- College of Environment and Resources, Southwest University of Science & Technology, Mianyang, 621010, China
| | - Linchuan Fang
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, 712100, China.
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8
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Liu B, Zhao S, Qiu T, Cui Q, Yang Y, Li L, Chen J, Huang M, Zhan A, Fang L. Interaction of microplastics with heavy metals in soil: Mechanisms, influencing factors and biological effects. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 918:170281. [PMID: 38272091 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.170281] [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: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 01/16/2024] [Accepted: 01/17/2024] [Indexed: 01/27/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) and heavy metals (HMs) in soil contamination are considered an emerging global problem that poses environmental and health risks. However, their interaction and potential biological effects remain unclear. Here, we reviewed the interaction of MPs with HMs in soil, including its mechanisms, influencing factors and biological effects. Specifically, the interactions between HMs and MPs mainly involve sorption and desorption. The type, aging, concentration, size of MPs, and the physicochemical properties of HMs and soil have significant impacts on the interaction. In particular, MP aging affects specific surface areas and functional groups. Due to the small size and resistance to decomposition characteristics of MPs, they are easily transported through the food chain and exhibit combined biological effects with HMs on soil organisms, thus accumulating in the human body. To comprehensively understand the effect of MPs and HMs in soil, we propose combining traditional experiments with emerging technologies and encouraging more coordinated efforts.
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Affiliation(s)
- Baiyan Liu
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, CAS and MWR, Yangling 712100, China; The Research Center of Soil and Water Conservation and Ecological Environment, CAS and MOE, Yangling 712100, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Shuling Zhao
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, CAS and MWR, Yangling 712100, China; The Research Center of Soil and Water Conservation and Ecological Environment, CAS and MOE, Yangling 712100, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Tianyi Qiu
- College of Natural Resources and Environment, Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China; Key Laboratory of Green Utilization of Critical Non-metallic Mineral Resources, Ministry of Education, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Qingliang Cui
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, CAS and MWR, Yangling 712100, China; The Research Center of Soil and Water Conservation and Ecological Environment, CAS and MOE, Yangling 712100, China; University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100049, China
| | - Yuyi Yang
- Key Laboratory of Aquatic Botany and Watershed Ecology, Wuhan Botanical Garden, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Wuhan 430074, China
| | - Lili Li
- Central Laboratory, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan 430060, China
| | - Jing Chen
- Department of Cardiology, Renmin Hospital of Wuhan University, Wuhan, China
| | - Min Huang
- Hubei Key Laboratory of Mineral Resources Processing and Environment, School of Resources and Environmental Engineering, State Key Laboratory of Silicate Materials for Architectures, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China
| | - Ai Zhan
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, CAS and MWR, Yangling 712100, China; The Research Center of Soil and Water Conservation and Ecological Environment, CAS and MOE, Yangling 712100, China; College of Soil and Water Conservation Science and Engineering (Institute of Soil and Water Conservation), Northwest A&F University, Yangling, China.
| | - Linchuan Fang
- State Key Laboratory of Soil Erosion and Dryland Farming on the Loess Plateau, Institute of Soil and Water Conservation, CAS and MWR, Yangling 712100, China; The Research Center of Soil and Water Conservation and Ecological Environment, CAS and MOE, Yangling 712100, China; Key Laboratory of Green Utilization of Critical Non-metallic Mineral Resources, Ministry of Education, Wuhan University of Technology, Wuhan, China.
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9
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Yu G, Wu L, Su Q, Ji X, Zhou J, Wu S, Tang Y, Li H. Neurotoxic effects of heavy metal pollutants in the environment: Focusing on epigenetic mechanisms. ENVIRONMENTAL POLLUTION (BARKING, ESSEX : 1987) 2024; 345:123563. [PMID: 38355086 DOI: 10.1016/j.envpol.2024.123563] [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: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 02/04/2024] [Accepted: 02/11/2024] [Indexed: 02/16/2024]
Abstract
The pollution of heavy metals (HMs) in the environment is a significant global environmental issue, characterized by its extensive distribution, severe contamination, and profound ecological impacts. Excessive exposure to heavy metal pollutants can damage the nervous system. However, the mechanisms underlying the neurotoxicity of most heavy metals are not completely understood. Epigenetics is defined as a heritable change in gene function that can influence gene and subsequent protein expression levels without altering the DNA sequence. Growing evidence indicates that heavy metals can induce neurotoxic effects by triggering epigenetic changes and disrupting the epigenome. Compared with genetic changes, epigenetic alterations are more easily reversible. Epigenetic reprogramming techniques, drugs, and certain nutrients targeting specific epigenetic mechanisms involved in gene expression regulation are emerging as potential preventive or therapeutic tools for diseases. Therefore, this review provides a comprehensive overview of epigenetic modifications encompassing DNA/RNA methylation, histone modifications, and non-coding RNAs in the nervous system, elucidating their association with various heavy metal exposures. These primarily include manganese (Mn), mercury (Hg), lead (Pb), cobalt (Co), cadmium (Cd), nickel (Ni), sliver (Ag), toxic metalloids arsenic (As), and etc. The potential epigenetic mechanisms in the etiology, precision prevention, and target therapy of various neurodevelopmental disorders or different neurodegenerative diseases are emphasized. In addition, the current gaps in research and future areas of study are discussed. From a perspective on epigenetics, this review offers novel insights for prevention and treatment of neurotoxicity induced by heavy metal pollutants.
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Affiliation(s)
- Guangxia Yu
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Lingyan Wu
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Qianqian Su
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Xianqi Ji
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Jinfu Zhou
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; Fujian Maternity and Child Hospital College of Clinical Medicine for Obstetrics & Gynecology and Pediatrics, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350001, China
| | - Siying Wu
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; Department of Epidemiology and Health Statistics, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China
| | - Ying Tang
- Fujian Center for Prevention and Control Occupational Diseases and Chemical Poisoning, Fuzhou 350125, China
| | - Huangyuan Li
- Key Lab of Environment and Health, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China; Department of Preventive Medicine, School of Public Health, Fujian Medical University, Fuzhou 350122, China.
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10
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Gao Q, Lu X, Li J, Wang P, Li M. Impact of microplastics on nicosulfuron accumulation and bacteria community in soil-earthworms system. JOURNAL OF HAZARDOUS MATERIALS 2024; 465:133414. [PMID: 38181595 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.133414] [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: 10/31/2023] [Revised: 12/23/2023] [Accepted: 12/29/2023] [Indexed: 01/07/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) widely co-occur with various pollutants in soils. However, the data related to the impacts of MPs on terrestrial animal and microbial properties in pesticide-contaminated soils are few. In this study, the influence of MPs (0.01%, 0.1%, and 1%) on nicosulfuron concentrations in soil (10 µg/g) and earthworms were investigated, moreover, microbial community structure and diversity in soil and earthworm gut were also measured. After 30 days, the concentration of nicosulfuron in soil decreased to 1.27 µg/g, moreover, the residual concentration of nicosulfuron in soil (1%MPs and nicosulfuron) was only 44.8% of that in the single nicosulfuron treatment group. The accumulation of nicosulfuron in earthworms (1%MPs and nicosulfuron) was 7.37 µg/g, which was 1.82 times of that in the single nicosulfuron treatment group. In addition, 1% MPs decreased the richness and diversity of the soil and gut bacterial community in earthworms as well as altered microbial community composition, leading to the enrichment of specific microbial community. Our findings imply that MPs may change the migration of pesticides to terrestrial animal and as well as microbial diversity in earthworms and soil.
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Affiliation(s)
- Qingchuan Gao
- College of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Xiaohui Lu
- College of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Jinfeng Li
- College of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Ping Wang
- College of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China
| | - Ming Li
- College of Forestry, Northeast Forestry University, Harbin 150040, China.
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11
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Liu Y, Huang W, Wang Y, Wen Q, Zhou J, Wu S, Liu H, Chen G, Qiu R. Effects of naturally aged microplastics on the distribution and bioavailability of arsenic in soil aggregates and its accumulation in lettuce. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 914:169964. [PMID: 38211862 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2024.169964] [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: 11/24/2023] [Revised: 01/02/2024] [Accepted: 01/04/2024] [Indexed: 01/13/2024]
Abstract
Naturally aged microplastics (NAMPs) and arsenic (As) have been reported to coexist in and threaten potentially to soil-plant ecosystem. The research explored the combined toxic effects of NAMPs and As to lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) growth, and the distribution, accumulation and bioavailability of As in soil aggregates. The As contaminated soil with low, medium and high concentrations (L-As, M-As, H-As) were treated with or without NAMPs, and a total of six treatments. The results displayed that, in comparison to separate treatments of L-As and M-As, the presence of NAMPs increased the total biomass of lettuce grown at these two As concentrations by 68.9 % and 55.4 %, respectively. Simultaneous exposure of NAMPs and L-As or M-As led to a decrease in As content in shoot (0.45-2.17 mg kg-1) and root (5.68-14.66 mg kg-1) of lettuce, indicating an antagonistic effect between them. In contrast, co-exposure to H-As and NAMPs showed synergistic toxicity, and the leaf chlorophyll and nutritional quality of lettuce were also reduced. NAMPs altered the ratio of different soil aggregate fractions and the distribution of bioavailable As within them, which influenced the absorption of As by lettuce. In conclusion, these direct observations assist us in enhancing the comprehend of the As migration and enrichment characteristics in soil-plant system under the influence of NAMPs.
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Affiliation(s)
- Yanwei Liu
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agricultural & Rural Pollution Abatement and Environmental Safety, College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Weigang Huang
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agricultural & Rural Pollution Abatement and Environmental Safety, College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Yujue Wang
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agricultural & Rural Pollution Abatement and Environmental Safety, College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Qian Wen
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agricultural & Rural Pollution Abatement and Environmental Safety, College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Juanjuan Zhou
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agricultural & Rural Pollution Abatement and Environmental Safety, College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
| | - Shengze Wu
- Guangdong Testing Institute of Product Quality Supervision, Foshan 528300, China
| | - Hui Liu
- Guangdong Testing Institute of Product Quality Supervision, Foshan 528300, China
| | - Guikui Chen
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agricultural & Rural Pollution Abatement and Environmental Safety, College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China.
| | - Rongliang Qiu
- Guangdong Laboratory for Lingnan Modern Agriculture, Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Agricultural & Rural Pollution Abatement and Environmental Safety, College of Natural Resources and Environment, South China Agricultural University, Guangzhou 510642, China
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12
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Gong K, Zhang Q, Shao X, Wu Y, Qiao Z, Qiu L, Zhang W, Peng C. Microplastics alter Cr accumulation and fruit quality in Cr(VI) contaminated soil-cucumber system during the lifecycle: Insight from rhizosphere bacteria and root metabolism. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:168792. [PMID: 38000747 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168792] [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: 09/17/2023] [Revised: 11/20/2023] [Accepted: 11/20/2023] [Indexed: 11/26/2023]
Abstract
Both microplastics and Cr(VI) potentially threaten soil and crops, but little is known about their interaction in the soil-plant system. This study investigated the effect and mechanism of polyethylene (PE), polyamide (PA), and polylactic acid (PLA) microplastics on Cr bioaccumulation and toxicity in a Cr(VI) contaminated soil-cucumber system during the lifecycle. The results show that microplastics had a greater effect on Cr accumulation in cucumber roots, stems, and leaves than in fruits. PE microplastics increased, but PA and PLA microplastics decreased the Cr accumulation in cucumber. Microplastics, especially high-dose, small, and aged microplastics, exacerbated the effects of accumulated Cr in cucumber on fresh weight and fruit yield. The nutrient contents in fruits except soluble sugars were reduced by microplastics. The random forest regression model shows that the microplastic type was the most important factor causing changes in the soil-cucumber system except for Cr(VI) addition. Under Cr(VI) and microplastic co-exposure, bacteria that could simultaneously tolerate Cr(VI) stress and degrade microplastics were enriched in the rhizosphere soil. The partial least squares path model shows that microplastics reduced the beneficial effect of the bacterial community on cucumber growth. Microplastics, especially PLA microplastics, alleviated the adverse effects of Cr(VI) stress on root metabolism.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kailin Gong
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, School of Resource and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Qi Zhang
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, School of Resource and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Xuechun Shao
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, School of Resource and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Yonghong Wu
- State Key Laboratory of Soil and Sustainable Agriculture, Institute of Soil Science, Chinese Academy of Sciences, East Beijing Road, Nanjing 210008, China
| | - Zhihua Qiao
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, School of Resource and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Linlin Qiu
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, School of Resource and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Wei Zhang
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, School of Resource and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China
| | - Cheng Peng
- State Environmental Protection Key Laboratory of Environmental Risk Assessment and Control on Chemical Process, School of Resource and Environmental Engineering, East China University of Science and Technology, Shanghai 200237, China; Shanghai Institute of Pollution Control and Ecological Security, Shanghai 200092, China.
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13
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Xue W, Wang C, Pan S, Zhang C, Huang Y, Liu Z. Effects of elevation and geomorphology on cadmium, lead and chromium enrichment in paddy soil and rice: A case study in the Xiangtan basin of China. THE SCIENCE OF THE TOTAL ENVIRONMENT 2024; 912:168613. [PMID: 37984659 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.168613] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/28/2023] [Revised: 11/14/2023] [Accepted: 11/14/2023] [Indexed: 11/22/2023]
Abstract
The distributions of heavy metals in paddy fields and rice along river valleys were studied to explore the key factors affecting the accumulation of heavy metals in the upstream terraces and downstream plains. Results from 975 sampling sites showed that elevation, growing season and soil organic matter (OM) had significant effects on the content of Cd and Pb in topsoil and rice. The content of Cd (0.47-0.66 mg kg-1) and Pb (49.9-68.6 mg kg-1) in paddy fields with low elevation (30-60 m) in the downstream plains was significantly higher than the content of Cd (0.29-0.38 mg kg-1) and Pb (43.9-56.3 mg kg-1) in the upstream terraces with high altitude (60-90 m). In the double-rice production area, late rice generally produced grains with higher Cd and Pb content than early rice. Soil Cd was positively increased with the content of OM, especially in the downstream plains. When elevation was used for principal component analysis, plains with low elevation were grouped together with high content of total and soluble Cd, OM and Pb in soil, as well as high content of Cd and Pb in late rice. Altitude is one of the key factors affecting Cd content in rice. Although content of Cr (93.7-138.0 mg kg-1) was significantly higher than that of Cd and Pb in soil, content of Cr was lower than that of Cd in rice. These results indicate that paddy fields with elevation of 30-60 m in the downstream plains had high risk to produce late rice with Cd and Pb content exceeding the food safety standard 0.2 mg kg-1, which may be resulted from the driving force of runoff on soil soluble Cd and Pb from terraces to alluvial plains in river valleys.
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Affiliation(s)
- Weijie Xue
- Agro-Environmental Protection Institute, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tianjin 300191, China
| | - Changrong Wang
- Agro-Environmental Protection Institute, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tianjin 300191, China
| | - Shufang Pan
- Hunan Institute of Agricultural Environment and Ecology, Changsha 410125, China
| | - Changbo Zhang
- Agro-Environmental Protection Institute, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tianjin 300191, China
| | - Yongchun Huang
- Agro-Environmental Protection Institute, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tianjin 300191, China
| | - Zhongqi Liu
- Agro-Environmental Protection Institute, Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs, Tianjin 300191, China.
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14
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Kudzin MH, Piwowarska D, Festinger N, Chruściel JJ. Risks Associated with the Presence of Polyvinyl Chloride in the Environment and Methods for Its Disposal and Utilization. MATERIALS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2023; 17:173. [PMID: 38204025 PMCID: PMC10779931 DOI: 10.3390/ma17010173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/08/2023] [Revised: 12/12/2023] [Accepted: 12/14/2023] [Indexed: 01/12/2024]
Abstract
Plastics have recently become an indispensable part of everyone's daily life due to their versatility, durability, light weight, and low production costs. The increasing production and use of plastics poses great environmental problems due to their incomplete utilization, a very long period of biodegradation, and a negative impact on living organisms. Decomposing plastics lead to the formation of microplastics, which accumulate in the environment and living organisms, becoming part of the food chain. The contamination of soils and water with poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) seriously threatens ecosystems around the world. Their durability and low weight make microplastic particles easily transported through water or air, ending up in the soil. Thus, the problem of microplastic pollution affects the entire ecosystem. Since microplastics are commonly found in both drinking and bottled water, humans are also exposed to their harmful effects. Because of existing risks associated with the PVC microplastic contamination of the ecosystem, intensive research is underway to develop methods to clean and remove it from the environment. The pollution of the environment with plastic, and especially microplastic, results in the reduction of both water and soil resources used for agricultural and utility purposes. This review provides an overview of PVC's environmental impact and its disposal options.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marcin H. Kudzin
- Łukasiewicz Research Network—Lodz Institute of Technology, 19/27 Marii Sklodowskiej-Curie Str., 90-570 Łódź, Poland; (M.H.K.); (D.P.); (N.F.)
- Circular Economy Center (BCG), Environmental Protection Engineering Research Group, Brzezińska 5/15, 92-103 Łódź, Poland
| | - Dominika Piwowarska
- Łukasiewicz Research Network—Lodz Institute of Technology, 19/27 Marii Sklodowskiej-Curie Str., 90-570 Łódź, Poland; (M.H.K.); (D.P.); (N.F.)
- Doctoral School of Exact and Natural Sciences, University of Lodz, 21/23 Jana Matejki Str., 90-237 Łódź, Poland
- UNESCO Chair on Ecohydrology and Applied Ecology, Faculty of Biology and Environmental Protection, University of Lodz, 12/16 Banacha Str., 90-232 Łódź, Poland
- European Regional Centre for Ecohydrology of the Polish Academy of Sciences, 3 Tylna Str., 90-364 Łódź, Poland
| | - Natalia Festinger
- Łukasiewicz Research Network—Lodz Institute of Technology, 19/27 Marii Sklodowskiej-Curie Str., 90-570 Łódź, Poland; (M.H.K.); (D.P.); (N.F.)
- Circular Economy Center (BCG), Environmental Protection Engineering Research Group, Brzezińska 5/15, 92-103 Łódź, Poland
| | - Jerzy J. Chruściel
- Łukasiewicz Research Network—Lodz Institute of Technology, 19/27 Marii Sklodowskiej-Curie Str., 90-570 Łódź, Poland; (M.H.K.); (D.P.); (N.F.)
- Circular Economy Center (BCG), Environmental Protection Engineering Research Group, Brzezińska 5/15, 92-103 Łódź, Poland
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