(GIST OF SCIENCE REPORTER) Emerging Threat of Nanoplastics Pollution to terrestrial ecosystems

(July-2023)

Emerging Threat of Nanoplastics Pollution to terrestrial ecosystems

Context:

World Environment Day 2023 theme: “Beat Plastic Pollution” due to the rise of nano plastic pollution on land. It severely affects soil fertility, crop productivity, and human well-being.

How are Nanoplastics (NPs) created?

The problem of plastic pollution is a serious concern. 85% of the 400 million tons of plastic waste generated each year ends up in landfills or is disposed of improperly. Developing countries are particularly affected due to a need for proper garbage disposal and recycling systems. The degradation and disintegration of plastic in the environment create harmful microplastics and nanoplastics.

Why is Plastic pollution on land more prevalent than in the ocean?

Plastic waste is a serious issue that harms both humans and the Land pollution from plastic is worse than ocean pollution, with agricultural lands having more plastic particles than sea basins. Unfortunately, the impact on agriculture has not received enough attention.
Nanoparticles can enter soil through various human activities like water pipes, agriculture, sewage, and industrial waste. They can also come from rainfall and airborne sources.

Impact of NPs on ecosystems:

Scientists are studying the long-term impact of NPs on the environment and ways to reduce any risks they may
Studies show that NP particles directly impact soil microbes, animals, and plants in the rhizosphere. NPs can harm earthworms and filter feeders by getting absorbed into their digestive
NPs or fine particles can attach themselves to harmful chemicals and transport them, negatively impacting the environment and hindering seedling growth.
Nanoparticles (NPs) in soil affect plant growth and can accumulate in plant tissue, harming food yield and safety. Lettuce has the ability to take in NPs and transfer them to other organisms in the food chain, which can be harmful to the health of both herbivores and humans.
Nanoparticles can hinder plant growth by disrupting mineral transporters, leading to decreased photosynthesis and respiration and resulting in stunted
Nanoparticles can harm plants, but more research is needed to understand how they affect gene regulation and signalling.

Ways to reduce the impact of NPs:

Understanding the mechanisms of NPs in plants is crucial for reliable monitoring and risk evaluation.
Bridging gaps in knowledge of their sources and transport pathways is necessary for effective regulation and
Maintaining soil fertility and implementing sustainable farming practices are essential for agriculture.
Additionally, students studying biology should also gain knowledge about the plastic cycle, which operates similarly to the natural carbon cycle, circulating through the atmosphere, oceans, and
More research on the effects of soil NPs on organisms is We should reduce plastic usage, especially in our countries.
Educating the public about NP contamination and soil protection is also