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Ceccanti C, Davini A, Lo Piccolo E, Lauria G, Rossi V, Ruffini Castiglione M, Spanò C, Bottega S, Guidi L, Landi M. Polyethylene microplastics alter root functionality and affect strawberry plant physiology and fruit quality traits. J Hazard Mater 2024; 470:134164. [PMID: 38583200 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.134164] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/23/2023] [Revised: 02/24/2024] [Accepted: 03/27/2024] [Indexed: 04/09/2024]
Abstract
Strawberry, a globally popular crop whose fruit are known for their taste and health benefits, were used to evaluate the effects of polyethylene microplastics (PE-MPs) on plant physiology and fruit quality. Plants were grown in 2-L pots with natural soil mixed with PE-MPs at two concentrations (0.2% and 0.02%; w/w) and sizes (⌀ 35 and 125 µm). Plant physiological responses, root histochemical and anatomical analyses as well as fruit biometric and quality features were conducted. Plants subjected to ⌀ 35 µm/0.2% PE-MPs exhibited the most severe effects in terms of CO2 assimilation due to stomatal limitations, along with the highest level of oxidative stress in roots. Though no differences were observed in plant biomass, the impact on fruit quality traits was severe in ⌀ 35 µm/0.2% MPs treatment resulting in a drop in fruit weight (-42%), soluble solid (-10%) and anthocyanin contents (-25%). The smallest sized PE-MPs, adsorbed on the root surface, impaired plant water status by damaging the radical apparatus, which finally resulted in alteration of plant physiology and fruit quality. Further research is required to determine if these alterations also occur with other MPs and to understand more deeply the MPs influence on fruit physio-chemistry.
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Affiliation(s)
- C Ceccanti
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto, 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - A Davini
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto, 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - E Lo Piccolo
- Department of Agriculture, Food, Environment and Forestry, University of Florence, viale delle Idee 30, 50019 Sesto Fiorentino, Firenze, Italy.
| | - G Lauria
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto, 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - V Rossi
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto, 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy
| | - M Ruffini Castiglione
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Luca Ghini, 13, 56126 Pisa, Italy; CIRSEC, Centre for Climate Change Impact, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - C Spanò
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Luca Ghini, 13, 56126 Pisa, Italy; CIRSEC, Centre for Climate Change Impact, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - S Bottega
- Department of Biology, University of Pisa, via Luca Ghini, 13, 56126 Pisa, Italy
| | - L Guidi
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto, 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy; CIRSEC, Centre for Climate Change Impact, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy
| | - M Landi
- Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment, University of Pisa, via del Borghetto, 80, 56124 Pisa, Italy; CIRSEC, Centre for Climate Change Impact, University of Pisa, Pisa, Italy.
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2
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Zhang Z, Yu H, Tao M, Lv T, Li F, Yu D, Liu C. Mechanistic insight into the impact of polystyrene microparticle on submerged plant during asexual propagules germination to seedling: Internalization in functional organs and alterations of physiological phenotypes. J Hazard Mater 2024; 469:133929. [PMID: 38452672 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133929] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/16/2023] [Revised: 02/12/2024] [Accepted: 02/28/2024] [Indexed: 03/09/2024]
Abstract
Asexual reproduction is one of the most important propagations in aquatic plants. However, there is a lack of information about the growth-limiting mechanisms induced by microplastics on the submerged plant during asexual propagule germination to seedling. Hence, we investigated the effects of two sizes (2 µm, 0.2 µm) and three concentrations (0.5 mg/L, 5 mg/L, and 50 mg/L) of polystyrene microplastics (PSMPs) on Potamogeton crispus turion germination and seedling growth. Both PSMPs sizes were found in P. crispus seedling tissues. Metabolic profile alterations were observed in leaves, particularly affecting secondary metabolic pathways and ATP-binding cassette transporters. Metal elements are indispensable cofactors for photosynthesis; however, alterations in the metabolic profile led to varying degrees of reduced concentrations in magnesium, iron, copper, and zinc within P. crispus. Therefore, the maximum quantum yield of photosystem II significantly decreased in all concentrations with 0.2 µm-PSMPs, and at 50 mg/L with 2 µm-PSMPs. These findings reveal that internalization of microplastics, nutrient absorption inhibition, and metabolic changes contribute to the negative impact on P. crispus seedlings.
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Affiliation(s)
- Zhiqiang Zhang
- The National Field Station of Freshwater Ecosystem of Liangzi Lake, College of Life Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Hongwei Yu
- State Key Laboratory of Environmental Aquatic Chemistry, Research Center for Eco-Environmental Sciences, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing 100085, PR China
| | - Min Tao
- The National Field Station of Freshwater Ecosystem of Liangzi Lake, College of Life Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Tian Lv
- The National Field Station of Freshwater Ecosystem of Liangzi Lake, College of Life Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Fuchao Li
- The National Field Station of Freshwater Ecosystem of Liangzi Lake, College of Life Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Dan Yu
- The National Field Station of Freshwater Ecosystem of Liangzi Lake, College of Life Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan, PR China
| | - Chunhua Liu
- The National Field Station of Freshwater Ecosystem of Liangzi Lake, College of Life Science, Wuhan University, Wuhan, PR China.
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3
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Xu L, Xie W, Dai H, Wei S, Skuza L, Li J, Shi C, Zhang L. Effects of combined microplastics and heavy metals pollution on terrestrial plants and rhizosphere environment: A review. Chemosphere 2024; 358:142107. [PMID: 38657695 DOI: 10.1016/j.chemosphere.2024.142107] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/07/2024] [Revised: 04/08/2024] [Accepted: 04/20/2024] [Indexed: 04/26/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) can enter the soil environment through industry, agricultural production and daily life sources. Their interaction with heavy metals (HMs) poses a significant threat to a variety of terrestrial ecosystems, including agricultural ones, thereby affecting crop quality and threatening human health. This review initially addresses the impact of single and combined contamination with MPs and HMs on soil environment, including changes in soil physicochemical properties, microbial community structure and diversity, fertility, enzyme activity and resistance genes, as well as alterations in heavy metal speciation. The article further explores the effects of this pollution on the growth characteristics of terrestrial plants, such as plant biomass, antioxidant systems, metabolites and photosynthesis. In general, the combined contaminants tend to significantly affect soil environment and terrestrial plant growth, i.e., the impact of combined contaminants on plants weight ranged from -87.5% to 4.55%. Similarities and differences in contamination impact levels stem from the variations in contaminant types, sizes and doses of contaminants and the specific plant growth environments. In addition, MPs can not only infiltrate plants directly, but also significantly affect the accumulation of HMs in terrestrial plants. The heavy metals concentration in plants under the treatment of MPs were 70.26%-36.80%. The co-occurrence of these two pollution types can pose a serious threat to crop productivity and safety. Finally, this study proposes suggestions for future research aiming to address current gaps in knowledge, raises awareness about the impact of combined MPs + HMs pollution on plant growth and eco-environmental security.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lei Xu
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, 266520, China
| | - Wenjun Xie
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, 266520, China.
| | - Huiping Dai
- College of Biological Science & Engineering, Shaanxi Province Key Laboratory of Bio-resources, Qinling-Bashan Mountains Bioresources Comprehensive Development C.I.C, State Key Laboratory of Biological Resources and Ecological Environment Jointly Built By Qinba Province and Ministry, Shaanxi University of Technology, Hanzhong, 723001, China
| | - Shuhe Wei
- Key Laboratory of Pollution Ecology and Environment Engineering, Institute of Applied Ecology, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Shenyang, 110016, China.
| | - Lidia Skuza
- Institute of Biology, Centre for Molecular Biology and Biotechnology, University of Szczecin, Szczecin, 71-415, Poland
| | - Jianan Li
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, 266520, China
| | - Cailing Shi
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, 266520, China
| | - Lichang Zhang
- School of Environmental and Municipal Engineering, Qingdao University of Technology, Qingdao, 266520, 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 Manag Res 2024:734242X241234234. [PMID: 38520089 DOI: 10.1177/0734242x241234234] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [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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Chai B, Yin H, Xiao T, Xiao E, Dang Z, Pan K. Effects of Microplastics on Endophytes in Different Niches of Chinese Flowering Cabbage ( Brassica campestris). J Agric Food Chem 2024; 72:4679-4688. [PMID: 38383292 DOI: 10.1021/acs.jafc.3c09092] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/23/2024]
Abstract
Microplastics (MPs) are present in soil as emerging contaminants and pose a threat to soil as well as plants. Here, the effects of MPs on Chinese flowering cabbage from a microbiology perspective were explored. MP size and concentration significantly affected endophytic communities of plant root and petiole (p < 0.05). Under MP treatments, the root, petiole, and leaf exhibited a substantial abundance of pathogenic biomarkers, such as Pseudomonas, Burkholderia, Ralstonia, and Escherichia, resulting in the slow growth and morbidity of the plant. Difference analysis of metabolic pathways revealed that MPs significantly upregulated the pathogenic metabolic pathways (p < 0.05), and the presence of Vibrio infectious and pathogenic metabolic pathways was detected in all three niches of the plant. Moreover, MPs significantly inhibited the contents of carotenoids, iron, vitamin C, and calcium in edible niches of the plant (p < 0.05), and most of the high-abundant biomarkers were negatively correlated with their nutritional qualities.
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Affiliation(s)
- Bingwen Chai
- Key Laboratory for Water Quality and Conservation of the Pearl River Delta, Ministry of Education, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, People's Republic of China
- School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, People's Republic of China
| | - Hua Yin
- School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education on Pollution Control and Ecosystem Restoration in Industry Clusters, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, People's Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Solid Wastes Pollution Control and Recycling, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, People's Republic of China
| | - Tangfu Xiao
- Key Laboratory for Water Quality and Conservation of the Pearl River Delta, Ministry of Education, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, People's Republic of China
| | - Enzong Xiao
- Key Laboratory for Water Quality and Conservation of the Pearl River Delta, Ministry of Education, School of Environmental Science and Engineering, Guangzhou University, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, People's Republic of China
| | - Zhi Dang
- School of Environment and Energy, South China University of Technology, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, People's Republic of China
- Key Laboratory of Ministry of Education on Pollution Control and Ecosystem Restoration in Industry Clusters, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, People's Republic of China
- Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Solid Wastes Pollution Control and Recycling, Guangzhou, Guangdong 510006, People's Republic of China
| | - Ke Pan
- Shenzhen Key Laboratory of Marine Microbiome Engineering, Institute for Advanced Study, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518060, People's Republic of China
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6
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Kim D, Kim H, Lee J, Choi MJ, Kweon HS, An YJ. Evidence of parental transfer of nanoplastics in pea (Pisum sativum) plants. J Hazard Mater 2024; 465:133516. [PMID: 38228010 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2024.133516] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/18/2023] [Revised: 12/06/2023] [Accepted: 01/10/2024] [Indexed: 01/18/2024]
Abstract
The increasing abundance of nanoplastics in the environment is a cause of serious concern and its acute and chronic effects on ecosystems need to be thoroughly investigated. Toward this end, this study investigated the parental transfer of nanoplastics by chronically exposing Pisum sativum (pea) plants to nanoplastics through soil medium. We observed the presence of nanoplastics in harvested fruits and a subsequent generation of plants replanted in uncontaminated soil using confocal laser scanning microscopy. The fluorescence was located in the cell wall of the vascular bundles, but not in the epidermis, indicating the parental transfer of nanoplastics. In addition, we determined the effects of nanoplastics on the health of subsequent plant generations by estimating the reproductive factors and measuring the content of individual nutrients in peas. Decreases in crop yield and fruit biomass, in addition to changes in nutrient content and composition, were noted. The transgenerational effects of nanoplastics on plants can profoundly impact terrestrial ecosystems, including both plant species and their predators, raising critical safety concerns. Our findings highlight the evidence of parental transfer of nanoplastics in the soil through plants and shows that the chronic effects of nanoplastics on plants may pose a threat to the food supply.
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Affiliation(s)
- Dokyung Kim
- Department of Environmental Health Science, Konkuk University, 120 Neungdong-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Haemi Kim
- Department of Environmental Health Science, Konkuk University, 120 Neungdong-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Jiseon Lee
- Department of Food Science and Biotechnology of Animal Resources, Konkuk University, 120 Neungdong-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Mi-Jung Choi
- Department of Food Science and Biotechnology of Animal Resources, Konkuk University, 120 Neungdong-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea
| | - Hee-Seok Kweon
- Center for Research Equipment, Korea Basic Science Institute, Cheongju 28119, Republic of Korea
| | - Youn-Joo An
- Department of Environmental Health Science, Konkuk University, 120 Neungdong-ro, Gwangjin-gu, Seoul 05029, Republic of Korea.
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7
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Grifoni M, Pellegrino E, Arrighetti L, Bronco S, Pezzarossa B, Ercoli L. Interactive impacts of microplastics and arsenic on agricultural soil and plant traits. Sci Total Environ 2024; 912:169058. [PMID: 38070573 DOI: 10.1016/j.scitotenv.2023.169058] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/16/2023] [Revised: 11/27/2023] [Accepted: 11/30/2023] [Indexed: 12/22/2023]
Abstract
The ability of microplastics (MPs) to interact with environmental pollutants is currently of great concern due to the increasing use of plastic. Agricultural soils are sinks for multipollutants and the safety of biodegradable MPs in field conditions is questioned. However, still few studies have investigated the interactive effects between MPs and metals on the soil-plant system with agricultural soil and testing crops for human consumption. In this work, we tested the effect on soil and plant parameters of two common MPs, non-degradable plastic low-density polyethylene and biodegradable polymer polylactic acid at two different sizes (<250 μm and 250-300 μm) in association with arsenic (As). Lettuce (Lactuca sativa L.) was used as a model plant in a small-scale experiment lasting 60 days. Microplastics and As explained 12 % and 47 % of total variance, respectively, while their interaction explained 21 %, suggesting a higher toxic impact of As than MPs. Plant growth was promoted by MPs alone, especially when biodegradable MPs were added (+22 %). However, MPs did not affect nutrient concentrations in roots and leaves. The effect of MPs on enzyme activities was variable depending on the time of exposure (with larger effects immediately after exposure), the type and size of the MPs. On the contrary, the co-application of MP and As, although it did not change the amount of bioavailable As in soil in the short and medium term, it resulted in a significant decrease in lettuce biomass (-19 %) and root nutrient concentrations, especially when polylactic acid was applied. Generally, MPs in association with As determined the plant-soil toxicity. This work provides insights into the risk of copollution of MPs and As in agricultural soil and its phytotoxic effect for agricultural crops. However, the mechanisms of the joint effect of MP and As on plant toxicity need further investigation, especially under field conditions and in long-term experiments.
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Affiliation(s)
- Martina Grifoni
- Crop Science Research Center (CSRC), Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Elisa Pellegrino
- Crop Science Research Center (CSRC), Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, 56127 Pisa, Italy.
| | - Leonardo Arrighetti
- Institute for Chemical and Physical Processes, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, CNR-IPCF, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Simona Bronco
- Institute for Chemical and Physical Processes, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, CNR-IPCF, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Beatrice Pezzarossa
- Research Institute on Terrestrial Ecosystems, Consiglio Nazionale delle Ricerche, CNR-IRET, 56127 Pisa, Italy
| | - Laura Ercoli
- Crop Science Research Center (CSRC), Scuola Superiore Sant'Anna, 56127 Pisa, Italy
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Dainelli M, Castellani MB, Pignattelli S, Falsini S, Ristori S, Papini A, Colzi I, Coppi A, Gonnelli C. Growth, physiological parameters and DNA methylation in Spirodela polyrhiza (L.) Schleid exposed to PET micro-nanoplastic contaminated waters. Plant Physiol Biochem 2024; 207:108403. [PMID: 38290343 DOI: 10.1016/j.plaphy.2024.108403] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/22/2023] [Revised: 01/09/2024] [Accepted: 01/25/2024] [Indexed: 02/01/2024]
Abstract
The effects of polyethylene terephthalate micro-nanoplastics (PET-MNPs) were tested on the model freshwater species Spirodela polyrhiza (L.) Schleid., with focus on possible particle-induced epigenetic effects (i.e. alteration of DNA methylation status). MNPs (size ∼ 200-300 nm) were produced as water dispersions from PET bottles through repeated cycles of homogenization and used to prepare N-medium at two environmentally relevant concentrations (∼0.05 g L-1 and ∼0.1 g L-1 of MNPs). After 10 days of exposure, a reduction in fresh and dry weight was observed in treated plants, even if the average specific growth rate for both frond number and area was not altered. Impaired growth was coupled with a MNP-induced decrease of chlorophyll fluorescence parameters (i.e. ΨETo and Piabs, indicators of photochemical efficiency) and starch concentration, as well as with alterations in plant ionomic profile and oxidative status. The methylation-sensitive amplification polymorphism (MSAP) technique was used to assess possible changes in DNA methylation levels induced by plastic particles. The analysis showed unusual hypermethylation in 5'-CCGG sites that could be implicated in DNA protection from dangerous agents (i.e. reactive oxygen species) or in the formation of new epialleles. This work represents the first evidence of MNP-induced epigenetic modifications in the plant world.
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Affiliation(s)
- Marco Dainelli
- Department of Biology, Università degli Studi di Firenze, via Micheli 1, 50121, Florence, Italy
| | - Maria Beatrice Castellani
- Institute of Bioscience and Bioresources (IBBR), National Research Council (CNR), Via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Sara Pignattelli
- Institute of Bioscience and Bioresources (IBBR), National Research Council (CNR), Via Madonna del Piano 10, 50019, Sesto Fiorentino, Italy
| | - Sara Falsini
- Department of Biology, Università degli Studi di Firenze, via Micheli 1, 50121, Florence, Italy
| | - Sandra Ristori
- Department of Chemistry, University of Florence, Via della Lastruccia 3, Sesto Fiorentino, 50019, Firenze, Italy
| | - Alessio Papini
- Department of Biology, Università degli Studi di Firenze, via Micheli 1, 50121, Florence, Italy
| | - Ilaria Colzi
- Department of Biology, Università degli Studi di Firenze, via Micheli 1, 50121, Florence, Italy.
| | - Andrea Coppi
- Department of Biology, Università degli Studi di Firenze, via Micheli 1, 50121, Florence, Italy
| | - Cristina Gonnelli
- Department of Biology, Università degli Studi di Firenze, via Micheli 1, 50121, Florence, Italy
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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. J Hazard Mater 2024; 461:132636. [PMID: 37778309 DOI: 10.1016/j.jhazmat.2023.132636] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 10.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [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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10
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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) 2023; 17:173. [PMID: 38204025 PMCID: PMC10779931 DOI: 10.3390/ma17010173] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [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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Santini G, Castiglia D, Perrotta MM, Landi S, Maisto G, Esposito S. Plastic in the Environment: A Modern Type of Abiotic Stress for Plant Physiology. Plants (Basel) 2023; 12:3717. [PMID: 37960073 PMCID: PMC10648480 DOI: 10.3390/plants12213717] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [What about the content of this article? (0)] [Affiliation(s)] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/15/2023] [Revised: 10/23/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023]
Abstract
In recent years, plastic pollution has become a growing environmental concern: more than 350 million tons of plastic material are produced annually. Although many efforts have been made to recycle waste, a significant proportion of these plastics contaminate and accumulate in the environment. A central point in plastic pollution is demonstrated by the evidence that plastic objects gradually and continuously split up into smaller pieces, thus producing subtle and invisible pollution caused by microplastics (MP) and nanoplastics (NP). The small dimensions of these particles allow for the diffusion of these contaminants in farmlands, forest, freshwater, and oceans worldwide, posing serious menaces to human, animal, and plant health. The uptake of MPs and NPs into plant cells seriously affects plant growth, development, and photosynthesis, finally limiting crop yields and endangering natural environmental biodiversity. Furthermore, nano- and microplastics-once adsorbed by plants-can easily enter the food chain, being highly toxic to animals and humans. This review addresses the impacts of MP and NP particles on plants in the terrestrial environment. In particular, we provide an overview here of the detrimental effects of photosynthetic injuries, oxidative stress, ROS production, and protein damage triggered by MN and NP in higher plants and, more specifically, in crops. The possible damage at the physiological and environmental levels is discussed.
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Affiliation(s)
- Giorgia Santini
- Department of Biology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Cinthia, I-80126 Napoli, Italy; (G.S.); (M.M.P.); (G.M.); (S.E.)
| | - Daniela Castiglia
- Bio-Organic Chemistry Unit, Institute of Biomolecular Chemistry CNR, Via Campi Flegrei 34, Pozzuoli, 80078 Naples, Italy
| | - Maryanna Martina Perrotta
- Department of Biology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Cinthia, I-80126 Napoli, Italy; (G.S.); (M.M.P.); (G.M.); (S.E.)
| | - Simone Landi
- Department of Biology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Cinthia, I-80126 Napoli, Italy; (G.S.); (M.M.P.); (G.M.); (S.E.)
| | - Giulia Maisto
- Department of Biology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Cinthia, I-80126 Napoli, Italy; (G.S.); (M.M.P.); (G.M.); (S.E.)
| | - Sergio Esposito
- Department of Biology, University of Naples “Federico II”, Via Cinthia, I-80126 Napoli, Italy; (G.S.); (M.M.P.); (G.M.); (S.E.)
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