Microplastics (MPs) are a pervasive pollutant, affecting soil, water, and living organisms worldwide. Pig manure has been identified as a significant source of MPs, posing environmental and health risks. A recent study by Yuwen Zhou, Mukesh Kumar Awasthi, Asad Syed, and Ali H. Bahkali investigated the effectiveness of walnut shell biochar (WSB) and montmorillonite clay (M) in promoting the biodegradation of MPs during pig manure composting.

The research involved adding varying concentrations of WSB (0% to 12%) along with 10% M to pig manure compost over 42 days. The results showed that the addition of biochar significantly influenced the bacterial community structure, enhancing the degradation of MPs. The most prevalent bacterial phyla were Firmicutes, Proteobacteria, Chloroflexi, and Bacteroidetes, which played a crucial role in breaking down MPs.

The study utilized Energy Dispersive Spectrometer (EDS) and Fourier Transform Infrared Spectrometry (FTIR) to analyze the chemical changes in MPs. The findings revealed a maximum carbon weight loss of 20.25% in MPs, indicating substantial oxidative degradation. The presence of biochar facilitated the breakdown of chemical bonds in MPs, making them more biodegradable.

This research underscores the potential of using biochar and clay to mitigate MP pollution through composting. The enhanced bacterial activity and subsequent degradation of MPs offer a promising solution for reducing environmental contamination. This approach not only addresses the issue of MP pollution but also promotes sustainable waste management practices in agriculture.