Global Food Systems at Risk
Microplastics impair plant photosynthesis, reducing yields of staple crops like maize, wheat, and rice by up to 14% and threatening long-term agricultural productivity.
Key Findings
- 7-12% reduction in photosynthetic efficiency across plant types
- 4-14% projected harvest yield losses for major crops
- Up to 7% decline in aquatic primary productivity
- Accelerated risks of starvation by 2040 without intervention
- Synergistic effects with climate change stressors
Cascading Consequences
The study warns that unchecked microplastic pollution could destabilize food chains, exacerbate malnutrition, and increase global hunger by 20-30% over two decades.