Effect of microplastics on carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus cycle in farmland soil: A meta-analysis

Abstract

Farmland soil is a major sink for microplastics (MPs). Despite recognized potential impacts on soil ecosystems, comprehensive assessments of MPs' effects on carbon (C), nitrogen (N), and phosphorus (P) cycling in agricultural soils are limited. Data from 102 peer-reviewed studies were analyzed to elucidate the effects of MPs exposure on the C, N, and P cycles in soil. Results showed increased concentrations of soil organic carbon (SOC), dissolved organic carbon, microbial biomass carbon, and microbial biomass nitrogen, accompanied by elevated emissions of carbon dioxide (CO₂), methane (CH₄), and nitrous oxide (N₂O) after MPs introduction. A random forest model revealed that soil C, N, and P cycles are driven by MPs characteristics (biodegradability, size, concentration), soil properties (initial pH, SOC, total N, clay content), and experimental conditions (incubation period, soil moisture). Complex interactions between MPs and soil C, N, and P were illustrated, with increased CO₂, CH₄, and N₂O emissions due to C mineralization and enhanced denitrification rates caused by MPs. These negative effects imply a need for strengthened management of C, N, and P cycles in agricultural soil to reduce farmland ecosystems' contributions to greenhouse gas emissions.