June 11, 2025 -
Fungal Breakthrough Offers Hope in Fight Against Microplastic Soil Pollution
A groundbreaking study led by China’s Kunming Institute of Botany has uncovered the cascading effects of microplastics on agricultural ecosystems while identifying a potential fungal solution. The international research team’s findings reveal alarming impacts on soil health and crop productivity, alongside promising biodegradation pathways.
Key Research Findings
- Global Soil Crisis: Analysis of 400 monitoring sites shows soils absorb 52% of microplastic pollution worldwide
- PE Plastic Peril: 75μm polyethylene particles cause the most damage, reducing:
✓ Corn germination by 48%
✓ Plant height by 30cm
✓ Crop yields by 50% - Climate Feedback Loop: Microplastics increase CO₂ emissions by 88.55mg/kg and N₂O by 1.01mg/kg per soil sample
Iranian Fungus Shows Promise
The team identified Lasiodiplodia iranensis as an effective polyurethane degrader:
11.05% weight reduction in plastic films within 60 days
19.1% molecular weight decrease
Multiple plastic-eating enzymes isolated
“This reveals a dangerous synergy between microplastics and climate factors,” said lead researcher Dr. Jianchu Xu. “But nature may provide tools to break the cycle.”
Call to Action
The study underscores the need for:
- Policy interventions regulating agricultural plastic use
- Industry innovation in biodegradable alternatives
- Cross-sector collaboration to scale microbial solutions
With field trials expanding across Asia, the team aims to develop practical bioremediation protocols within two years.