Microplastics in fertiliser: common practice, unknown problem

ECHA proposed banning (part of) this use of plastic. There is little awareness of the scale of the problem in the Dutch Government however.

Microplastic particles in fertilisers are intentionally added to the coating surrounding the fertiliser granules. This coating forms a barrier around the granule that ensures that the nutrients are released more slowly. Another example of intentionally added microplastics in fertilisers are certain additives, such as anti-caking or colouring agents. When used, these microplastics directly enter the environment where they do not break down. Studies show that crops are able to absorb the smallest plastics. There is also an increasing number of indications regarding potential negative effects of microplastics on (human) health.

In answer (in Dutch) to Parliamentary Questions in 2019, Minister Schouten of Agriculture, Nature and Food Quality (LNV) stated: ‘There are no known public data of the scale in which these products [the use of intentionally added microplastics in agriculture and horticulture, as in fertilisers] are used.’ Apparently, there is a major lack of knowledge regarding a potentially huge environmental and health problem.

In line with the precautionary principle, it is crucial to reduce plastics – and thus microplastics and intentionally added microplastics – for a better and healthier environment. The expectation is that this year, 2022, will show if Europe opts for a ban on their use in fertilisers to prevent the further plastic pollution of agricultural land. However, due to all sorts of exceptions to the ban, still a degree of plastic pollution will take place. If ECHA’s proposal is not adopted, a reduction in the contentious use of plastic in fertiliser and the use of the fertiliser will depend on the willingness to change of different stakeholders involved in agriculture.

 

Against this backdrop, for her master’s degree, Marina Bool examined the degree to which various parties in the Dutch agricultural sector are not only aware of the presence of microplastics in fertiliser and their effects, but also if the parties were willing to change and voluntarily stop using/producing them. 

Her research shows that the awareness regarding the presence and effects of intentionally added microplastics to fertilisers varies enormously among the stakeholders. The farmers questioned, who use the fertiliser on their land, had no idea there are or could be microplastics in their fertilizing products. It varied how each individual farmer reacted to this information and how this influenced their willingness to change.

 

One farmer said that as long as it was permitted, he would continue to use these products, while another immediately showed less enthusiasm about their use and would consider to stop using them, even if there would be no European ban. Naturally, also other factors play a role. If the use of microplastic free fertiliser could lead to a reduced harvest and less income, people tend to be less willing to change.

In turn, producers and suppliers showed some willingness to change, but only if the negative effects on health and the environment would be demonstrated even more strongly and clearly. Greater awareness of the consequences would make it easier for politicians to roll out measures. Although, those measures could already be taken on the basis of the precautionary principle.

The recent coalition agreement of the new government states that the Netherlands ‘strive to be in the group of leaders in Europe in the transition to a green economy. (…) We will make sure that everyone can join, the polluter pays and that no one is left behind. In this way we will do justice to the earth, the next generations and each other.’

 

For the new Minister of LNV, Henk Staghouder, microplastics in fertiliser is already a sensitive dossier. A good way to start would be to map the scale and the use of agricultural products that leave microplastics on the land. Promoting plastic free agriculture is an important task, regardless of the outcomes of the European policy.