Soil Bioplastic Mulches for Agroecosystem Sustainability: A Comprehensive Review

Cristina Abbate, Aurelio Scavo, Gaetano Roberto Pesce (), Stefania Fontanazza, Alessia Restuccia and Giovanni Mauromicale
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Cristina Abbate: Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment (Di3A), University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
Aurelio Scavo: Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment (Di3A), University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
Gaetano Roberto Pesce: Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment (Di3A), University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
Stefania Fontanazza: Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment (Di3A), University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
Alessia Restuccia: Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment (Di3A), University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy
Giovanni Mauromicale: Department of Agriculture, Food and Environment (Di3A), University of Catania, 95123 Catania, Italy

Agriculture, 2023, vol. 13, issue 1, 1-30

Abstract: The use of plastic mulch films is widespread in agriculture for specialty cropping systems because of several benefits. In this article, we critically review, for the first time under a holistic approach, the use of biodegradable plastic mulches (BdPMs) in soil as a sustainable alternative to conventional petroleum-based plastics, highlighting the current state of understanding of their degradation in soil and their effect on soil microorganisms, weed control, and soil properties. In addition, we provide a detailed focus on the history and economic importance of mulching. BdPMs are effective for use in vegetable production in that they improve physical, chemical, and biological soil properties, as well as enhancing microbial biodiversity, controlling weeds, and maintaining soil moisture. BdPMs could be useful to limit the use of agrochemicals and reduce tillage and irrigation supplies for sustainable management.

Keywords: biodegradable mulching; biodegradation; soil microorganisms; soil health; weed management; sustainability (search for similar items in EconPapers)
JEL-codes: Q1 Q10 Q11 Q12 Q13 Q14 Q15 Q16 Q17 Q18 (search for similar items in EconPapers)
Date: 2023
References: View references in EconPapers View complete reference list from CitEc
Citations: View citations in EconPapers (1)

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