Xianlin Zhou, Jianjun Yang, Fei Cao, Qiang Dong, Meizhen Song
Xinjiang, a pivotal cotton-producing region in China, extensively employs plastic film mulching to enhance cotton yield and quality. However, prolonged and widespread use has led to increasingly severe residual plastic film (RPF) pollution, causing significant adverse impacts on soil, water bodies, and ecosystems. This review critically analyzes the current status of RPF pollution in Xinjiang's cotton fields, examines its detrimental effects on cotton growth, development, and yield, and systematically evaluates its multifaceted environmental consequences. Research indicates that RPF alters soil physical and chemical properties, negatively affecting the cotton growth environment and root development, ultimately diminishing fiber quality. Furthermore, RPF contributes to soil degradation, water pollution, and deterioration of the agricultural production environment. Consequently, this paper synthesizes current sustainable RPF prevention and control strategies. Proposed comprehensive measures include: promoting biodegradable film applications, enhancing film quality standards, optimizing application rates and mulching techniques, improving agricultural management practices, advancing efficient RPF recovery technologies and machinery, innovating recycling and utilization systems, establishing robust collection networks and policy frameworks, strengthening legal regulations and enforcement, implementing diverse public education and awareness campaigns, fostering public participation and oversight mechanisms, and undertaking ecological restoration coupled with long-term monitoring. These strategies aim to elevate societal awareness of RPF pollution and provide a scientific foundation and practical guidance for fostering the harmonious coexistence of Xinjiang's cotton industry and ecological environment.