How do agricultural plastic products affect the environment?

Agricultural plastic products, such as plastic films and containers, have significant environmental impacts. They contribute to soil degradation by altering soil structure and reducing water infiltration. The chemicals leached from these plastics can contaminate water sources, affecting aquatic life and potentially entering the food chain. Additionally, plastic waste can entangle or be ingested by wildlife, leading to injury or death. The persistence of plastics in the environment means they do not biodegrade easily, leading to long-term pollution and the accumulation of microplastics, which can have unknown effects on ecosystems.