Abstract

• Microplastics (MPs) are pollutants a growing environmental concern, particularly in soils, where their impacts on ecosystems and human health at risks. This study examines roadside soil contamination in Kalay Township, Sagaing Region, focusing on MPs and heavy metals. Ten soil samples were collected in 2021, and SEM-EDX analysis revealed varying concentrations of silicon, iron, and calcium. AAS confirmed calcium, iron, and potassium presence, with concentrations up to 57.40 ppm. Polyethylene (PE) was the most prevalent type of microplastic (66 %), followed by polypropylene (PP) (30 %), with an average of 92 pieces/Kg of dry soil. MPs primarily appeared as fragments (96 %), ranging between 1000 1500 µm in size. MPs can adsorb potentially toxic elements (PTEs), facilitating their movement in soil and increasing human health risks. This combined contamination poses significant dangers, leading to bioaccumulation of toxic metals, potentially causing organ damage and developmental disorders. The study emphasizes the urgent need for policy interventions, advocating for circular economy strategies and the 3R approach (reduce, reuse, and recycle) as critical measures to combat soil pollution and protect public health.