Resource or waste? A perspective of plastics degradation in soil with a focus on end-of-life options. One step beyond.

ABSTRACT: Plastics have surpassed traditional materials across numerous industries due to their versatility, durability, and cost-effectiveness. However, their persistence in ecosystems, particularly in soil, presents serious environmental challenges. This narrative review builds on previous work by analysing over 300 studies on plastics in soil, with a focus on degradation and potential reuse. Special attention is given to research published since 2019. The review classifies plastics by resin type and examines their degradation processes under various soil conditions, covering both conventional and biodegradable polymers. Polyethylene emerges as the most extensively studied polymer, while interest in biodegradable alternatives like polylactic acid (PLA) and polybutylene adipate-co-terephthalate (PB

SUBMITTER: Scalenghe R 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11652843 | biostudies-literature | 2024 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature