Identification, characterization, and implications of microplastics in soil-A case study of Bhopal, central India

Microplastic contamination in environmental matrices is posing new challenges for scientific community and general public across the globe. Wide-spectrum application of plastics in various commercial products has increased the production of plastics and various polymeric materials. Owing to poor recycling and waste management practices, it is expected that a large number of microplastics will be generated which may be transported into the soil, water, and air. Present study reports the occurrence of microplastics in soil of Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh which is the first study in Central region of India. Study found that a total of 752.5 & PLUSMN; 6.36 microplastic particles were present in all the 10 soil samples collected. The highest amount at any one site is reported to be 180 & PLUSMN; 13.44 particles/kg. The microplastic particles varied in size, shape, and colour as well. Chemical composition analysis revealed that particles belonged to five different polymer classes viz . polyethylene, polypropylene, polyvinyl chloride, polyethylene terephthalate, and polyvinyl acetate. Implications of microplastics' presence in studied area might lead to contamination in the nearby wetland (lake), national park, and groundwater. Detailed studies are, therefore, required to explore the presence of microplastics in various other environmental matrices and their correlation with anthropogenic activities in the Central Indian region.

Automated summary

Microplastic contamination is a new challenge for the global scientific community and public. The wide use of plastics has increased their production which leads to poor recycling and waste management. A study in Bhopal, India found microplastics in soil samples, with a total of 752.5 ± 6.36 particles collected. The presence of microplastics in the area could lead to contamination in nearby wetlands, national parks, and groundwater, highlighting the need for further research in the region.