Overview

• The French Agency for Ecological Transition (ADEME) conducted the first national study on microplastic contamination in French soils, analyzing 33 samples across various land uses.
• Microplastics were found in 76% of the samples, with agricultural soils such as grasslands, vineyards, and field crops showing the highest levels of contamination.
• The study revealed an average of 15 microplastic particles per kilogram of dry soil, with 70% of these particles measuring less than 2 millimeters in size.
• Researchers identified common plastics like polyethylene and polypropylene, often used in packaging, as the primary pollutants but could not pinpoint exact sources in all cases.
• The report calls for expanded research to urban and overseas areas, as well as action plans to address pollution sources and mitigate potential environmental and health risks.