Toxicologia Ambiental e Analítica

Soil Ecosystem Stress: The Interplay between Microplastics and Insecticides

Abstract

Maya Arora*

Soil ecosystems are increasingly threatened by the simultaneous presence of microplastics and insecticides, two pervasive pollutants with far-reaching environmental consequences. This study investigates the combined effects of these contaminants on soil health, focusing on their impact on soil organisms, nutrient cycling, and overall soil quality. Microplastics, originating from plastic debris and synthetic fibers, persist in soils, where they physically disrupt soil structure and function. Insecticides, widely used in agriculture to control pests, introduce toxic compounds that can harm non-target soil organisms. The interaction between microplastics and insecticides may exacerbate their individual impacts, leading to altered microbial communities, reduced soil fertility, and impaired ecosystem services. Understanding the synergistic effects of these pollutants is crucial for developing effective soil management and pollution mitigation strategies. This research highlights the need for integrated approaches to reduce microplastic and insecticide contamination, ensuring the sustainability of soil ecosystems essential for agriculture and biodiversity.