Beating plastic pollution in agriculture

The application of razor-thin sheets of polyethylene film across farmlands began in the 1950s when agronomists noticed that it could successfully moderate soil temperature, limit weed growth and prevent moisture loss. All essential factors in crop production, this method was found to increase cotton, maize and wheat yields by an average 30%. The promise of increased yields at a relatively low cost formed a multi-billion dollar industry for agricultural plastics. According to Food and Agriculture Organization experts, agricultural value chains use 12.5 million tonnes of plastic products each year. Crop production and livestock combined accounted for 10.2 million tonnes (Mt) per year of plastics, followed by fisheries and aquaculture with 2.1 million tonnes and forests with 0.2 million tonnes .

Dangerous toxins released from the polyethylene film can remain in the soil for centuries. Known as white pollution, polyethylene residue is becoming increasingly prevalent in treated soils at levels of up to 300 kilogrammes (661 pounds) per hectare. Over time, this decreases soil porosity and air circulation, alters microbial communities, and compromises soil fertility. Polyethylene also releases carcinogenic phthalate acid esters into the soil, which, together with other synthetic pesticides can be easily absorbed by the crops. This is a significant risk to human health. What's more, the polyethylene films used in the coverings are low density by design, which makes the plastic extremely difficult to biodegrade. Any waste from this process is rarely accepted by recycling facilities and often ends up in landfills and oceans, wreaking havoc on ecosystems around the world.

Continue reading.

Photo created by freepik - www.freepik.com

Source: Hindustan Times