Exploring the Plastic Predicament in Agriculture
Travelling along the Central Coast of California presents a stark contrast: the vast ocean on one side and immense stretches of plastic on the other. Dr. Seeta Sistla, an assistant professor at California Polytechnic State University, highlights this alarming sight. She notes the extensive use of plastic in agriculture, a practice resulting in significant environmental buildup, especially in soil.
While plastic packaging is often the primary focus when considering plastic waste, its journey in the food system begins much earlier. In various agricultural sectors, including crop farming, forestry, and aquaculture, plastic plays a crucial role. Its uses range from mulch and weed blockers to greenhouse liners and fishing nets. This practice, known as plasticulture, has been increasingly popular since the 1950s for its numerous benefits, such as boosting crop yields and conserving water. However, it also contributes significantly to pollution, potentially harming the foundation of our food system: the soil.
The Invisible Impact of Plasticulture
Consumers might be unaware of the extent of plasticulture. For instance, many fruits and vegetables are grown using plastic sheeting, and bananas often mature in bags treated with pesticides. This widespread use of plastic has led to alarming levels of microplastic accumulation in agricultural fields, as Dr. Sistla’s research reveals.
Mainstream discussions on sustainable agriculture often overlook plasticulture due to its hidden nature. However, its impact is profound and alarming, as noted by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). The FAO’s report highlights the staggering amount of plastic used in plant and animal production, and the challenges of recycling these materials due to contamination and their single-use nature.
Seeking Solutions: Alternatives to Plastic in Agriculture
Dr. Gladis Zinati, director of the Vegetable Systems Trial at Rodale Institute, emphasizes the importance of linking soil health with human health. The trial explores alternatives to plastic mulch, like intensive tillage and reduced-tillage practices. Despite the ubiquity of black plastic mulch, alternatives such as cover crops, roller crimpers, and natural materials are being explored to reduce plastic usage and improve soil health.
Biodegradable mulch (BDM) presents another alternative, though its higher cost and regulatory challenges limit its widespread adoption. Dr. Sistla’s research focuses on understanding the viability of BDMs, their impact on soil and crops, and the long-term effects of their use. While promising, BDMs face hurdles in meeting organic farming standards and potential adverse effects on soil microbes.
Navigating the Challenges of Plastic Reduction in Agriculture
The journey to reduce plastic in agriculture is complex, as illustrated by Thaddeus Barsotti, co-owner of Capay Organic. While his farm has managed to minimize plastic usage, broader changes in the food chain are challenging. Barsotti’s efforts include substituting plastic packaging with more sustainable options, but market dynamics often dictate the use of plastic.
The FAO underscores the need for concerted efforts from businesses, policymakers, and consumers to address the plasticulture challenge. This includes improving recyclability, investing in alternative materials, and enacting legislation to reduce plastic use in agriculture.
The Road Ahead: Cultivating Awareness and Action
Raising consumer awareness about the prevalence of plastic in food production is crucial for driving change. Supporting local farmers, advocating for corporate and governmental action, and self-education are key steps individuals can take. The future of our food supply depends on addressing the hidden plastic threat within our agricultural systems.