This paper presents a comprehensive and current summary of the literature on the sources and properties of MNPs in agricultural ecosystems. The study also provides a methodology for the isolation and characterization of MNPs recovered from soil, MNP surrogate materials that mimic the size and properties of soil-borne MNPs, and the transport of MNPs through the soil matrix. The impacts and risks of agricultural MNPs on crops, soil microorganisms, and fauna are also presented in this paper. The paper also highlights that long-term studies are needed to address current knowledge gaps in formation, soil surface and subsurface transport, and environmental impacts of MNPs, including those that are derived from biodegradable mulch films, which ultimately undergo complete mineralization but will reside in the soil for several months. The complexity and variability of agricultural soil ecosystems and the difficulty in recovering MNPs from soil call for a deeper understanding of the fundamental relationships between MPs, NPs, soil biota, and microbiota, including the ecotoxicological effects of MNPs on earthworms, soil-dwelling invertebrates, and beneficial soil microorganisms, as well as soil geochemical attributes.
It aims to prevent, deter, and eliminate Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, aligning with FAO’s International Plan of Action. It strengthens fisheries governance, vessel monitoring, and regional cooperation to protect marine resources and livelihoods. The plan includes licensing regulations, ecosystem-based fisheries management, and stricter enforcement against IUU activities. It promotes sustainable fishing, marine biodiversity[…]
It promotes sustainable ocean management, marine biodiversity conservation, and climate resilience. It aims to integrate scientific and traditional knowledge, enhance marine governance, and support a blue economy. The policy establishes marine protected areas, combats land and marine pollution (including plastic waste), and strengthens regulations on resource extraction. It aligns with international commitments such as the[…]
It aims to reduce marine pollution including plastic pollution through policy implementation, technological innovations, monitoring, and public awareness. It addresses land- and sea-based pollution sources, emphasizing circular economy principles and sustainable waste management. The plan aligns with international frameworks and includes 17 actions and 103 activities. Key strategies involve reducing single-use plastics, improving recycling systems,[…]
Ireland’s National Implementation Plan (2012) under the Stockholm Convention aims to control and eliminate Persistent Organic Pollutants (POPs). It outlines legal measures to restrict the production, use, and release of POPs, including pesticides, industrial chemicals, and unintentional by-products like dioxins and furans. The plan enforces monitoring, regulatory compliance, waste disposal, and public awareness campaigns. Efforts[…]
It aims to prevent and manage hazardous waste effectively while minimizing environmental and health risks. The plan prioritizes waste reduction, improved collection, and increased self-sufficiency in hazardous waste treatment. Key strategies include regulatory enforcement, waste prevention programs, and public awareness campaigns. The plan also promotes alternatives to hazardous materials, better disposal facilities, and stricter monitoring[…]