Agricultural plastics and environmental sustainability: Assessment and remediation strategies

Abstract

Due to agricultural plastic waste, the use of plastic films, irrigation pipes, greenhouse covers, and packaging materials in farming has become a significant environmental and socioeconomic problem worldwide. Crop health and biodiversity are negatively impacted by the disassembly and storage of such plastics, which also creates microplastics and pollutes water. The sources and varieties of agricultural plastics, their impacts on the environment and the economy, and the current methods of managing them—such as recycling, composting, and the use of biodegradable substitutes—are all methodically examined in this review. Additionally, new solutions, including the models of the circular economy, technologies of plastic to fuel, and smart tracking systems are touched upon. Problems, shortcomings, and gaps in the research are also brought to the fore to offer a holistic approach to sustainable management strategies. The paper highlights how combined policies, technologies and farmer education are required to reduce plastic pollution and enhance environmental friendly farming.