Unraveling the Impact of Organic Pollutants on Plant Nutrient Uptake and Soil Microbiome Dynamics

Abstract

The growing intrusion of organic contaminants into soil systems—primarily from farming, industrial processes, and urban waste—has raised serious concerns about their influence on nutrient availability and soil microbial ecology. Substances such as pesticides, herbicides, and petroleum-based compounds disrupt the chemical and biological integrity of soil, impairing key nutrient cycles and disturbing microbial populations vital for soil functionality. These disruptions compromise nutrient accessibility, hamper plant development, and reduce agricultural efficiency, with potential cascading ecological consequences. This study investigates the diverse impacts of organic contaminants on soil dynamics, emphasizing their effects on plant-microbe relationships, nutrient transformation processes, and microbial adaptability. Additionally, it outlines remediation strategies, including bioremediation and phytoremediation, aimed at restoring soil vitality and enhancing nutrient use in polluted areas. A nuanced understanding of these interactions is critical to formulating sustainable land management solutions that address soil contamination and ensure long-term agricultural sustainability.