Beneath the Surface: Unraveling the Impact of Micro and Nanoplastics on Plant Performance

The extensive use of plastic has resulted in severe environmental, social, economic, and health issues. Mismanagement of plastic waste leads to the accumulation of micro–nanoplastic (MNP) pollution in the environment. The use of microplastic-containing fertilizers, such as bio-waste from households, sewage sludge, or commercial sources, is believed to be the primary source of MNP contamination in agricultural farmland. Plant performance can be affected by MNPs, either directly or indirectly. Several studies found that nanoplastics (NPs) smaller than 1 μm can be uptake directly by plants. The uptake of NPs by plant roots involves their transport across the plasma membrane of root cells, loading, and subsequent translocation through the xylem pathway. It indicates that NPs taken by roots or leaves can be translocated to another part of the plant through the plant’s vascular bundle. The extended adverse effect of uptake MNPs on plants will be briefly discussed. MNPs can alter the physical and chemical properties of soil, impacting microbial community structure and function and indirectly disturbing plant nutrient cycling and uptake. This chapter unravels the complex relationships between soil microbes, microplastics, and plants and their impact on plant performance. Furthermore, future perspectives for mitigating and solving MNP pollution and the impact on plants are also offered.