A recent study reveals that microplastics are significantly impairing plant health, jeopardizing global food production.
These particles, which disrupt photosynthesis and reduce the efficiency of key crops like maize, rice, and wheat, are expected to cause substantial losses in food supplies.
Researchers estimate that up to 14% of staple crops could be lost due to microplastic contamination, potentially putting 400 million people at risk of starvation by 2040.
The study highlights that the pollution, which affects plants’ ability to harness sunlight and damages soil, is contributing to the global hunger crisis.
With microplastics now present everywhere from Mount Everest to the deepest oceans, they are preventing plants from growing effectively by blocking sunlight, harming nutrients, and releasing toxic chemicals that disrupt photosynthesis.
Lead researcher Prof. Huan Zhong from Nanjing University warns that this pollution could pose a similar threat to food production as the climate crisis.
Given the rising global population and increasing contamination, the study underscores the urgent need for actions to reduce plastic pollution and protect food security.
While these findings are alarming, experts call for further research to confirm the long-term impact of microplastics on plant life and its contribution to global food insecurity.
