Biodegradable microplastics induce more soil nitrous oxide emission than conventional in semi-arid Loess Plateau

Puntos clave

• Nitrous oxide emissions are higher in soils with biodegradable microplastics than with conventional types, leading to concerns about their environmental impact.
• Emissions were measured at 2.5 mg per kg of soil in the presence of biodegradable plastics, compared to 1.8 mg in conventional plastic setups.
• Analysis of soil samples in semi-arid regions highlighted the differences in greenhouse gas emissions from various plastic types.
• Evidence suggests the need for reevaluating the use of biodegradable microplastics in agriculture due to their environmental effects.