The German Federal Government has recently published the 6th Soil Protection Report. It provides a comprehensive overview of current activities and developments in soil protection. Despite numerous advances, the report makes it clear that the need for action remains high, particularly with regard to the entry of plastics into soils.
Plastics in soil: an underestimated burden
The report identifies several sources through which plastics enter soils, including:
- the use of plastic films for soil coverage (mulch films) in agriculture and horticulture,
- sewage sludge and compost used as fertilizers.
According to the report, initial research findings show that microplastics act as a long-term stressor for soils and soil organisms. It is therefore deemed essential to avoid or at least reduce additional plastic inputs into soils wherever possible.
The Federal/State Working Group on Soil Protection (LABO) also sees urgent need for action, both with regard to tire abrasion and, in particular, plastic inputs from the use of films in agriculture and horticulture, as well as polymers in fertilizers and plant protection products.
Lack of concrete measures
Despite this clear analysis, the Federal Government’s report remains vague when it comes to planned concrete measures. Yet even simple steps could have a significant impact, for example:
- mandatory biodegradability of thin mulch films (requirements for their degradability are already defined in the German Bio-Waste Ordinance),
- as well as of so-called slow release fertilizers (in line with the EU Fertiliser Regulation).
Such measures could make a tangible contribution to reducing plastics in agricultural soils.
EU Packaging Regulation brings important progress
The new EU Packaging and Packaging Waste Regulation (PPWR) goes one step further. It stipulates compostability for certain applications, helping to ensure that fewer non-biodegradable plastics find their way into soils via bio-waste treatment (compost and digestate).
From February 2028, the following products must be compostable throughout Europe:
- stickers on fruit and vegetables,
- tea bags,
- coffee pods.
In addition, INAK, together with six other associations, is advocating that Germany makes full use of the PPWR’s scope and also mandates the compostability of very lightweight plastic carrier bags. These bags are often (mis)used by households for the collection of bio-waste.
The 6th Soil Protection Report confirms: Plastics in soil are an urgent environmental issue. What is needed now are concrete political steps to effectively reduce plastic inputs through clear requirements for biodegradable products and the consistent implementation of existing EU regulations.
You can find the full report of the German Federal Government here (German only).