Over the past decades, plastic has become an integral part of agriculture and this use is increasing with the intensity of modern commercial agriculture. The application of polyethene film across farmlands began in the 1950s as it could successfully moderate soil temperature, limit weed growth and prevent moisture loss. … Plastic is now used in mulching, seedling trays, micro-irrigation, pond liners, polyhouses, food storage, packaging and transportation.
In 2021, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) released a landmark report assessing the use of plastics in agriculture. The report calculated that, in 2019, agricultural value chains used 12 MT of plastic products in plant and animal products and 37.3 MT in food packaging.
Tackling agricultural plastic pollution is paramount to achieving resilient and sustainable agrifood systems. First, we need to make the farming community understand the disastrous consequences. Those who are ignorantly enjoying short-term monetary gains, need to take thought-through farm actions.
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Science-based guiding frameworks should be provided for the sustainable use and management of plastics in agriculture.
