Agricultural fertilisers contribute substantially to microplastic concentrations in UK soils

Plastics have revolutionised the world we live in today. Much like the industrial revolution, the introduction of plastics into everyday life is responsible for substantial changes to economic and social organisation. Plastics have facilitated advancements in packaging, construction, transportation, agriculture, medicine and electronics. Approximately, 450 million tonnes of plastic are produced annually, of which 12.5 million tonnes are used in agriculture^1,2. Of all plastics created, 76% has become waste, 79% of which has accumulated in landfill and the natural environment³.

In-use and as…