A new study has found micro- and nanoplastics

A new study has found micro- and nanoplastics

A new study has found micro and nanoplastics in places they shouldn't be - within the leaves and stems of wheat and tomato crops.

Media release from Griffith University:

A new study led by Griffith University has found micro and nanoplastics in places they shouldn't be - within the leaves and stems of wheat and tomato crops.

Led by Dr Shima Ziajahromi from the Australian Rivers Institute, the study found microplastics reduced plant growth and chlorophyll content, with fibre-shaped plastics - originating from synthetic textiles - having the most effects.

“These findings demonstrate that agricultural soil is not just a sink for plastics, but a pathway into the food systems – meaning they could end up on our plates," Dr Ziajahromi said.

“This highlights the need for improved environmental management practices, targeted mitigation strategies, and evidence-based regulations to control plastic inputs and reduce risks to food systems and human health.”

Griffith University: griffith.edu.au

Australian Rivers Institute: griffith.edu.au/australian-rivers-institute

Photo: © Griffith University - ARI

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Griffith University

Australian Rivers Institute

Dr Shima Ziajahromi