What can you do to lessen the load?

Microplastics pose a significant threat to our environment, especially in agricultural settings. These tiny plastic particles infiltrate soil, disrupt ecosystems, and affect both plant and human health. At Lucent Bio, we understand the critical need to address this issue. Our product, Nutreos, is a microplastic-free, biodegradable seed coating that represents a step forward in sustainable agriculture. Here's how you can contribute to lessening the microplastic load in agriculture and beyond. 

Understanding the Agricultural Impact of Microplastics

Microplastics originate from various sources, including the breakdown of larger plastics and the use of certain agricultural products. Over time, these particles seep into the soil, altering its physical structure and reducing its capacity to hold water. This can impede root growth and nutrient uptake in plants. Furthermore, chemical additives in plastics can leach into the soil, impacting food value chains and leading to potential health risks.

According to the Foresight Brief, the largest source of microplastic pollution in soil comes from fertilizers made from organic matter, such as manure. These fertilizers, known as biosolids, are often more cost-effective and environmentally friendly than their manufactured counterparts. However, biosolids are frequently mixed with microspheres—tiny synthetic particles found in products like soap, shampoo, and makeup—raising significant concerns about their impact on soil health.

As just one person, it may feel overwhelming to read about the harms of microplastics, and you might even feel helpless in the fight to reduce them. However, one person can have a significant impact, and there are many simple changes that you can make in your daily life to reduce your contribution to microplastics pollution in the soil, and consequently, your exposure to them. Lucky for you, we have curated a short list of steps you can take to lessen the microplastic load. 

Lessen the Microplastic Load in Agriculture:

1. Adopt Biodegradable Seed Coatings:
   1. Using Nutreos, our innovative biodegradable seed coating, can significantly reduce microplastic pollution. Nutreos breaks down naturally in the environment, leaving no harmful residues, and enhances seed performance by improving germination and seedling vigor.
2. Promote Awareness and Education:
   1. Educate fellow growers and the community about the impact of microplastics on soil health and the benefits of sustainable practices. Awareness can drive collective action and behavior change.
3. Implement Sustainable Soil Health Practices
   1. Techniques such as crop rotation, cover crops, and utilizing 4R fertility plans can improve soil structure and fertility. These practices also support healthy microbial communities essential for nutrient cycling. 
4. Controlled-Release Fertilizers
   1. Using fertilizers bound to natural materials designed for slow release, minimizing the need for synthetic coatings that degrade into microplastics. 
5. Monitoring Soil Health
   1. conduct regular soil tests to monitor microplastic levels and overall soil health. if possible, support and participate in research efforts to develop new biodegradable agricultural products that promote soil health and sustainability. 

Collaborative Efforts for a Sustainable Future

Addressing microplastic pollution requires a collaborative approach. By making conscious choices in agricultural practices, advocating for better regulations, and supporting sustainable products, we can significantly lessen the impact of microplastics on our environment and health.

At Lucent Bio, we are dedicated to leading the way in sustainable agriculture with products like Nutreos. This Microplastic Month, we encourage you to take action and join us in promoting a cleaner, healthier planet. Together, we can make a difference and ensure a sustainable future for generations to come.