4. Microplastics as Vectors for Chemical Contaminants
Microplastics act as carriers for chemical contaminants such as pesticides and heavy metals, adsorbing these toxins onto their surfaces.
When microplastics are present in soil, they can facilitate the transfer of these harmful substances into plant tissues, potentially increasing toxicity.
A study in Environmental Science & Technology highlights this risk, raising concerns about food safety and the health of crops grown in contaminated soils.