Impact of Plastic Waste on Soil Microbial Activity in Urban Parks

Abstract

Plastic pollution is an emerging environmental challenge in urban green spaces. The deleterious impact on aquatic systems has been widely published, while research on the impact of plastic pollution on soil microbial communities, which are essential for ecosystem health, remains limited. This study aimed to investigate the biological and perceived impact of plastic waste on soil microbial activity in urban parks. A convergent mixed methods design was employed across three urban parks. Quantitative analyses of the soils (microbial biomass carbon, pH, and moisture) were completed along with qualitative interviews with 15 distinct stakeholders, including staff, visitors, and experts. In zones impacted by plastic pollution, microbial activity in the soil was significantly lower than in zones without plastic pollution, and the concentration of plastic material resulted in a strong negative correlation with microbial biomass. Stakeholders reported noticeable degradation of both soil and plant health, which was related to the outcomes of the lab work. Plastic pollution negatively impacts soil health by altering soil microbial communities. As plastic waste management is a priority of municipal governments, waste mitigation strategies supplemented with environmental education will ensure sustainable urban parks and green space ecosystems.