Effects of microplastics on soil quality and health

Title: Microplastics in the environment: A big challengeMicroplastics in the environment: A big challenge

Speaker: Dr. Joana Antunes

From: INIAV

Abstract: Microplastics, defined as plastic particles less than 5 mm in size, have emerged as a significant environmental concern due to their ubiquitous presence and potential adverse effects on ecosystems and human health.

This presentation will explore the origins, distribution, and impacts of microplastics in several environmental compartments, including oceans, rivers, soils, and the atmosphere. The primary sources of microplastics will be mentioned, including industrial processes, plastic waste degradation, and consumer products. The pathways through which plastics enter and persist in the environment will also be discussed. The session will further address the complex interactions between microplastics and biota, highlighting their potential to act as vectors for pollutants and their implications for food safety and public health.

By comprehensively addressing these issues, this talk aims to underscore the critical need for a multi-faceted and collaborative approach to tackle the growing challenge of microplastics in the environment.

Title: Fungi in plastic-polluted soils: Biodiversity, metabolism, and degradation potential

Speaker: Prof. Marta Temporiti

From: University of Pavia

Abstract: Microorganisms, and especially fungi, are a keystone of soil biodiversity and soil metabolic capacity. Therefore, changes in fungal community compositions and metabolisms could be an interesting point of view to evaluate the impact of plastic pollution on soil health. Moreover, the fungal possibility to produce exoenzymes involved in polymer degradation makes fungi possible actors for plastic degradation.

The purpose of this presentation is to show the impact of plastic pollution on soil fungal communities and on the metabolism of soil microorganisms. In particular, we are investing how to create a useful collection of fungi with biodegradation potential and addressing important questions. From where can we isolate them? How can we understand their degrading abilities potential? Finally, how can fungi actually attack and modify plastics?

This lecture will offer an in-depth look into this complex topic, showcasing the findings from three years of dedicated research in the field.