A study published on December 26 by the French Agency for Ecological Transition reveals an almost systematic presence of microplastics in agricultural soils in France. Although numerous studies have already looked at the contamination they generate in the oceans, soil pollution by microplastics is, however, much less documented. This study reveals a catastrophe of great magnitude.
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Of the thirty-three soil samples analyzed, twenty-five – or 76% – contained microplastics. A pollution unprecedented with some nuances depending on the surfaces studied. According to the results of this studyall meadows and three-quarters of orchards and field crops are affected. Only the forests are resisting with a quarter of the soil contaminated.
L’National Agency for Ecological Transition specifies that these data do not make it possible to identify the source of microplastics, but “ assumes that part of their origin comes from the agricultural practices implemented “.
Resulting from the degradation of plastics that accumulate in landfills or the natural environment, microplastics are particles less than five millimeters in size.
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Particles present in plastic packaging
On average, the soils analyzed contain fifteen microplastic particles per kilo of soil. Mainly polyethylene and polypropylene, materials commonly found in plastic packaging and known to be endocrine disruptors.
For the authors of the report, this almost systematic presence of microplastics in soils shows that it is urgent to continue these studies, the only way according to them to “ characterize the contaminations, identify the sources of this pollution, to ultimately be able to implement an effective action plan », to limit soil degradation and health risks.
Finally, the researchers observe that the scope should be extended to urban areas and overseas territories.
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