A recent study, Microplastics in agriculture soil conducted in the green belts of Karnataka and Maharashtra showed an abundance of microplastics in the agricultural and horticultural areas. The study conducted by the environmental organization Toxic link stated that the depths of agricultural lands are contaminated with microplastics. This is caused due to the excessive use of mulching sheets. Mulching is an agricultural practice of covering the soil with plastic sheets to retain moisture and maintain the soil temperature, though, this practice has headed to the relief of extreme microplastics (< 5mm diameter) causing soil pollution.

The study resolved that the microplastics not only cause pollution but they find a way into our lungs and blood. Sathish Sinha, associate director, Toxic links stated that the increased levels of microplastic in the soil are a major source of contamination of the food and agricultural products and thereby human health.

The study clarified that the mulch sheets are made out of linear-low-density polythene and low-density, that are nonbiodegradable. The study results showed an overwhelming number of 80% of the test individuals had microplastics in blood samples for the first time. Thus, the study stressed the need to opt for viable alternative methods to reduce the environment and health concerns linked with the mulching practice.