Editors: Dr. Natchimuthu Karmegam

Dr. Mani Prakash

ISBN: 978-93-94174-13-9

Dr. Abul Faiz^*

Assistant Professor, Department of Zoology, Barama College, Barama, India

Micro-plastics have recently emerged as a critical environmental issue, extending beyond marine and freshwater ecosystems into agricultural landscapes. Modern agriculture extensively relies on plastics in the form of mulching sheets, irrigation pipes, greenhouse films, seedling trays and packaging materials, all of which contribute to the generation of micro-plastic residues in soils. These particles persist for decades, altering soil structure, microbial communities, and nutrient cycling, thereby influencing crop growth and productivity. Research from India and abroad demonstrates that micro-plastics not only disrupt soil ecology but may also be absorbed by crop roots and transferred to edible tissues, raising concerns about food safety and human health. Wastewater irrigation, compost application, and atmospheric deposition further exacerbate contamination in Indian farmlands. Despite the growing recognition of the problem, regulatory and management frameworks remain weak in developing countries. This chapter examines the sources, pathways and impacts of micro-plastics in agricultural ecosystems with special reference to Assam with a case study. It also highlights knowledge gaps, discusses policy challenges and evaluates mitigation strategies such as biodegradable mulches, improved waste management and farmer education. Addressing micro-plastics in agriculture is crucial for safeguarding soil health, ensuring sustainable food production and protecting human well-being.

*Corresponding author; e-mail:itzfaizhere@gmail.com itzfaizhere@gmail.com

Cite this Chapter: Abul Faiz., 2023. Micro-plastics in Agricultural Ecosystems: An Emerging Challenge. In: N. Karmegam and M. Prakash (Eds.), Status, Trends and Advances in Bioremediation. Excellent Publishers, India. pp. 208-222. doi: https://doi.org/10.20546/978-93-94174-13-9_13