Effects of micro- and nanoplastics on plants – Field plot study
Effects of micro- and nanoplastics on plants – Field plot study
The PAPILLONS consortium conducted a field experiment to study the effects of micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) on crop production and quality, aiming to uncover whether MNPs impact plant performance. Researchers investigated how these particles affect plants at different stages of their development and how well plants grow and function when they are exposed to MNPs through the soil. More specifically, the study examines the ways in which recycled MNPs affect barley growth, yield, and physiological responses in real farming conditions across three European countries: Spain, Germany, and Finland.
While barley yield remained relatively stable across treatments, clear physiological and biochemical changes were observed due to MNP exposure, especially at higher concentrations and over longer periods. These changes include reduced chlorophyll levels, increased oxidative stress, and activation of plant defence systems. Effects varied significantly between countries, showing that local climate and soil conditions influence how crops respond to plastic pollution. Overall, the study confirms that MNPs can subtly affect crop health even under real-world conditions, highlighting the need for regulation and long-term monitoring of plastic use in agriculture.
The PAPILLONS consortium conducted a field experiment to study the effects of micro- and nanoplastics (MNPs) on crop production and quality, aiming to uncover whether MNPs impact plant performance. Researchers investigated how these particles affect plants at different stages of their development and how well plants grow and function when they are exposed to MNPs through the soil. More specifically, the study examines the ways in which recycled MNPs affect barley growth, yield, and physiological responses in real farming conditions across three European countries: Spain, Germany, and Finland.
While barley yield remained relatively stable across treatments, clear physiological and biochemical changes were observed due to MNP exposure, especially at higher concentrations and over longer periods. These changes include reduced chlorophyll levels, increased oxidative stress, and activation of plant defence systems. Effects varied significantly between countries, showing that local climate and soil conditions influence how crops respond to plastic pollution. Overall, the study confirms that MNPs can subtly affect crop health even under real-world conditions, highlighting the need for regulation and long-term monitoring of plastic use in agriculture.
PAPILLONS
Ongoing | 2021-2025
- Main funding source
- Horizon 2020 (EU Research and Innovation Programme)
- Geographical location
- Norway