2s3: Environmental protection versus circular economy: microplastics in agricultural recycling

Abstract

Agricultural recycling of biowaste is a traditional example of waste disposal in a circular economy. Nutrients that have been extracted from the soil for agricultural production are recirculated partially to the production system soil by organic fertilizer, e.g., sewage sludge and compost. Also, organic matter is recycled as an amendment to retain or improve the soil structure. During the last three decades, environmental standards for applying sewage sludge and compost as organic fertilizer have been significantly increased to reduce the pollution by substances, which can harm soil or aquatic ecosystems.