Microplastics distribution in the soil: A review

Authors

• Helen Shnada Auta, Federal University of Technology, Minna
• Innocent Ojeba Musa, Skyline University Nigeria
• Sesan Abiodun Aransiola, University of Abuja
• Hussaini Anthony Makun, Federal University of Technology, Minna
• Auwalu Hassan, Federal University, Kashere
• Udeme Josiah Joshua Ijah, Federal University of Technology, Minna
• David Oyeyemi Aboyeji, Federal University of Technology, Minna
• Shahul Hamid Fauziah, Universiti Malaya
• Naga Raju Maddela, Universidad Técnica de Manabí
• Ram Prasad, Mahatma Gandhi Central University

Document Type

Review

Publication Date

4-28-2026

Abstract

The pervasive use of plastics in modern society has led to significant environmental concerns about plastic pollution. As demand for plastic materials continues to rise, the improper disposal of plastic waste poses a substantial threat to both marine and terrestrial ecosystems. Microplastics, defined as plastic debris < 5 mm in diameter, have emerged as a contaminant of global significance. While extensive research has focused on microplastic pollution in oceans, the impact on terrestrial environments remains understudied. The heterogeneous distribution of microplastics raises concerns about soil health, nutrient cycling, and crop productivity. Microplastics are not uniformly distributed across soil profiles. Instead, they often accumulate in topsoil layers where they interact with plant roots, microorganisms, and soil fauna. Their presence has been linked to changes in soil structure, reduced water holding capacity, and disruptions in microbial community dynamics. Understanding the patterns, pathways, and mechanisms governing microplastic distribution is therefore critical for developing informed mitigation strategies. If the food chain is disrupted, it can have negative impacts on soil biota, raising worries about human health. In this review, microplastics’ impacts on soil biogeochemistry and their interactions with soil organisms are discussed, along with their properties, research trends, and other factors. Recent findings suggest that soil serves as a primary sink and transporter of microplastics, which can then enter aquatic ecosystems and affect soil biota, potentially disrupting the food chain and human health. We emphasize the need for ongoing study into the impact of microplastics on terrestrial ecosystems.

Keywords

Air, Food insecurity, Microplastics, Plants, Soil

Publication Title

Asian Journal of Water Environment and Pollution

ISSN

0972-9860

DOI

10.36922/AJWEP025310243

Recommended Citation

Auta, Helen Shnada; Musa, Innocent Ojeba; Aransiola, Sesan Abiodun; Makun, Hussaini Anthony; Hassan, Auwalu; Ijah, Udeme Josiah Joshua; Aboyeji, David Oyeyemi; Fauziah, Shahul Hamid; Maddela, Naga Raju; and Prasad, Ram, "Microplastics distribution in the soil: A review" (2026). Research Publications (2026 to 2030). 124.
https://knova.um.edu.my/research_publications_2026_2030/124

Volume

23

Issue

2

Publisher

AccScience Publishing