Plastic Pollution in Agriculture: Challenges, Solutions, and the Global Impact with Dr. Karen Mancl

In this episode of Mulch Matters, we welcome Dr. Karen Mancl, a professor at Ohio State University and a fellow at the Woodrow Wilson Center. Dr. Mancl shares her expertise in plastic pollution, sustainability, and international environmental policy, offering a deep dive into how plastic is used in agriculture—particularly in China and the United States—and the environmental consequences that follow. We explore the evolution of plastic mulch use, the growing concern over microplastics in soil, and innovative strategies to mitigate plastic waste in farming. Dr. Mancl also discusses the role of biodegradable plastics, global policies, and the importance of U.S.-China collaboration in addressing agricultural plastic pollution. Tune in for a compelling conversation about the impact of plastic on our food systems and what we can do to create a more sustainable future. Don't miss it! Note: intro and outro music credit to Zakhar Valaha from Pixabay https://pixabay.com/music/introoutro-motivational-ident-main-9923/