Optimizing Soil Amendments: Biochar Counteracts Polystyrene-Induced Increases in Nitrous Oxide Emissions and Productivity Losses in Rice Cropping Systems

Biochar (BC) is a potential solution to improve soil fertility and decrease nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions from rice farming. However, microplastics (MPs) pose a significant threat to soil quality, affecting soil biota and other critical soil parameters. The combined impact of BC and MP contamination on N2O emissions has not been thoroughly investigated. To address this gap, researchers conducted a pot greenhouse experiment to examine the impact of sugarcane bagasse biochar (SBB), polystyrene (PS), and their interaction (PS*SBB) on N2O emissions and rice yield in a paddy calcareous soil. The study found that SBB decreased N2O emissions, while PS significantly increased N2O emissions. Co-applying SBB and PS reduced the global warming potential (GWP) of PS, and both SBB rates increased rice grain production compared to the control group. However, PS harmed rice grain production and biomass, and SBB only mitigated these effects to some extent. Overall, this study highlights the importance of understanding the interactions between different soil amendments and MPs to alter ecosystem function. Further research is necessary to comprehend how various types of MPs interact with soil amendments.