Microplastic in the Terrestrial Ecosystem of India
摘要
Microplastics, identified as plastic fragments that are less than five millimeters in size, have emerged as a major environmental pollutant across various ecosystems globally, including the terrestrial landscapes of India. These particles come from a variety of origins, such as agricultural operations (via plastic mulch and irrigation systems), urban runoff, incorrect trash disposal, industrial discharges, and decomposition of bigger plastic detritus. A total of seventy-five papers (from 2010 to 2024) pertaining to MPs were found, and their production, distribution, and sources in the Indian terrestrial environment were thoroughly examined. Furthermore, the production of plastics and microplastics worldwide as well as the state of information regarding MPs pollution in the terrestrial ecosystem of India are examined. The major cause of MPs contamination in agricultural soil and sediments is the widespread use of controlled release fertilizers, compost, plastic mulching and plastic greenhouses. Our research on the terrestrial ecosystem of India has revealed a broad prevalence of microplastics in soils, especially in urban and agricultural settings. Fragments were the most frequently discovered MPs type, followed by fibers and films. The physical characteristics of soil are changed by microplastics, which may have an impact on microbial populations and plant growth. We also emphasized the harmful effects of MPs on plants, including decreased weight and vegetative development. The problem of microplastic contamination in India is made worse by the country’s fast urbanization, poor waste management systems, heavy reliance on plastic in agriculture, and paucity of scientific research. Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive understanding of the sources, distribution, and ecological consequences of microplastics in the terrestrial environment. This chapter underscores the urgent need for an integrated approach combining scientific research, public awareness, and regulatory measures to mitigate the growing threat of microplastics to India’s terrestrial ecosystem.