Mmastodon EnvironmentEnvironment first seen 17 h ago, last 15 h ago, peak #1

Biodegradable plastic found to raise soil greenhouse gas emissions

Original: Researchers at Northwest A&F University, working with colleagues in Spain, have found that when biodegradable polylactic

Researchers at Northwest A&F University in China, working with colleagues in Spain, report that biodegradable polylactic acid (PLA) microplastics, when mixed into orchard soil, cause the soil to sharply increase emissions of two potent greenhouse gases, carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide. The findings challenge the assumption that biodegradable plastics are environmentally harmless and add to concerns about the spread of microplastics in agricultural land.

Why now: The study challenges the reputation of PLA as an eco-friendly alternative, prompting debate about biodegradable plastics' true environmental impact.

Northwest A&F UniversityPLA microplasticsorchard soil

Open on mastodon →

Evidence

• Researchers at Northwest A&F University, working with colleagues in Spain, have found that when biodegradable polylactic acid, or PLA, microplastics are mixed into orchard soil, the soil dramatically ramps up its emissions of two potent greenhouse gases, carbon dioxide and… · Snoro · 7

API: https://socialmediatrends-api.osmike.com/v1/trends/1365746