The hidden burden of microplastics in soils: sources, impacts, and sustainable solutions – a review

Abstract

Microplastic (MP) contamination has emerged as a major environmental concern, with terrestrial ecosystems increasingly recognized as the primary long‐term sink for plastic debris. Agricultural activities, wastewater irrigation, biosolid application, atmospheric deposition, and the degradation of plastic mulching materials contribute substantially to MP accumulation in soils, where they persist and undergo continuous transformation. This review critically synthesizes current knowledge on the sources, occurrence, transport pathways, environmental fate, ecological impacts, detection technologies, remediation strategies, and policy interventions related to soil MPs. Particular emphasis is placed on the mechanisms governing vertical migration under different soil textures, interactions with soil physicochemical properties, nutrient cycling, microbial diversity, and ecosystem functioning. Recent advances in analytical techniques, including Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), Raman spectroscopy, laser direct infrared spectroscopy (LDIR), optical photothermal infrared spectroscopy (O‐PTIR), hyperspectral imaging, pyrolysis‐gas chromatography/mass spectrometry (Py‐GC/MS), and artificial intelligence‐assisted spectral analysis, are critically evaluated with respect to their applicability to complex soil matrices. Emerging remediation approaches, including microbial degradation, advanced oxidation processes, catalytic oxidation, biochar‐assisted treatments, and biodegradable alternatives, are also discussed together with their limitations and future prospects. The review highlights significant knowledge gaps, particularly regarding long‐term field‐scale investigations, standardized analytical methodologies, environmentally realistic exposure scenarios, and integrated remediation strategies. Strengthening interdisciplinary research, harmonized monitoring frameworks, sustainable agricultural practices, and evidence‐based environmental policies will be essential for mitigating soil MP pollution and safeguarding soil health, ecosystem services, and global food security. © 2026 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).