Soil and Microplastics

Plastic in soil does not disappear — it fragments. This article explores how particle size changes biological relevance and why soil microplastics are now an emerging research field.

The FAO’s global assessment examines soil plastic accumulation, fragmentation into microplastics, and why Europe banned oxo-degradable plastics.

In compostable mulch, durability is engineered — not measured in mils. Structural stability, surface protection, and worst-case weather resilience determine real field performance.

Petit résumé stratégique pour la grille Insights.

Most growers remove plastic mulch after harvest. But what really happens to the fragments left behind? The answer matters for soil health and long-term field performance.

Plastic mulch does not simply “disappear.” It either fragments into persistent microplastics or biodegrades into natural elements. The difference is fundamental.