Contaminación plástica en la hidroponía: un desafío emergente para la producción agrícola sostenible

Jorge Eduardo Martinez Castelo; Haylin Zukany Rodriguez Rojas; Raul Said Inzunza Bojorquez; Israel Osuna Flores

doi:10.32351/rca.v11.459

Authors

Jorge Eduardo Martinez Castelo Autonomous Indigenous University of Mexico https://orcid.org/0009-0004-3251-648X
Haylin Zukany Rodriguez Rojas Autonomous Indigenous University of Mexico https://orcid.org/0009-0003-6722-0454
Raul Said Inzunza Bojorquez Autonomous Indigenous University of Mexico https://orcid.org/0009-0000-3219-1882
Israel Osuna Flores Autonomous Indigenous University of Mexico https://orcid.org/0009-0001-0199-2983

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.32351/rca.v11.459

Política de Crossmark DOI: https://doi.org/10.32351/politica-crossmark

Keywords:

Hydroponics, microplastics, nanoplastics, plant uptake, food safety

Abstract

Hydroponics is a production system that is efficient in terms of water and space; however, its reliance on plastic materials leads to the release and accumulation of microplastics (MPs) and nanoplastics (NPs) within nutrient solutions. This review analyzes MP and NP contamination in hydroponic systems, covering emission sources, plant uptake mechanisms, physiological consequences, and implications for food safety. An analytical and descriptive literature review was conducted for the period 2020–2026, utilizing academic databases and search terms in both English and Spanish. The findings indicate that MPs/NPs are primarily released from PVC piping, HDPE tanks, polyurethane substrates, and contaminated water. Particles smaller than 200 nm penetrate root tissues via apoplastic pathways or the "crack-entry" mechanism, subsequently translocating through the xylem to edible plant organs—a phenomenon confirmed in lettuce, tomatoes, and radishes. Physiological effects include the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS), lipid peroxidation, the sequestration of essential nutrients (Fe, Zn, Cu), and a reduction in biomass. Furthermore, MPs/NPs serve as vectors for phthalates, bisphenol A, pesticides, and pathogenic microorganisms. In Mexico, the presence of MPs has been documented in aquifers used for irrigation, as well as in atmospheric deposition and food products. It is concluded that, despite their reputation for sustainability, hydroponic systems represent a potential pathway for the transfer of MPs/NPs into the food chain.

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Author Biographies

Jorge Eduardo Martinez Castelo, Autonomous Indigenous University of Mexico

Student in the Biotechnology Engineering program—offered via a virtual modality—at the Autonomous Indigenous University of Mexico (UAIM). He possesses technical training in industrial refrigeration, industrial electricity, and industrial maintenance—expertise that complements and strengthens his academic background. His primary academic interests center on agriculture, the study of plants, and natural ecosystems, with a particular focus on applying biotechnology to crop improvement, the sustainable use of natural resources, and the development of sustainable agricultural alternatives.
Haylin Zukany Rodriguez Rojas, Autonomous Indigenous University of Mexico

Student in the Biotechnology Engineering program (offered in a virtual format) at the Autonomous Indigenous University of Mexico (UAIM). Her academic interests focus on environmental and agricultural biotechnology—specifically the study of microplastics and nanoplastics, their effects on plant development, and their potential implications for agricultural production and food safety. She also has a keen interest in researching sustainable alternatives for agricultural production systems, as well as analyzing environmental factors that may affect ecosystem balance and crop quality. Her academic and supplementary background includes knowledge of mechatronics engineering, training in robotics through courses offered by the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM), and education in artificial intelligence via programs from Santander and other learning platforms. Furthermore, she possesses technical training in administration, along with skills in graphic design and digital marketing—all of which broaden her interdisciplinary profile and strengthen her technological competencies.
Raul Said Inzunza Bojorquez, Autonomous Indigenous University of Mexico

Student in the virtual Biotechnology Engineering program at the Universidad Autónoma Indígena de México (UAIM) and holds a bachelor’s degree in Computer Systems from the Universidad Autónoma de Occidente (UAdeO). He has served as the head of the Computer Center at the Colegio de Bachilleres del Estado de Sinaloa (COBAES), Campus 17, and has also worked in library and administrative roles at COBAES, Campus 59. His academic background and professional experience encompass expertise in technology, computer systems, and biotechnology, with a particular focus on developing scientific and technological solutions for the agricultural and food sectors.
Israel Osuna Flores, Autonomous Indigenous University of Mexico

Is currently a Professor-Researcher at the Autonomous Indigenous University of Mexico (UNAM), affiliated with the Biotechnology Engineering Program at both the Virtual Unit and the Mochicahui Unit. He recently received an honorary doctorate from the International Organization for Inclusion and Quality Education (OIICE). He has held various positions, including Administrative Analyst and Reviewer at the National Aquaculture and Fisheries Commission; advisor to the company Acuícola Gilberto, S.C. de C.V., R.L.; and columnist for the online newspaper Phoenix Medios. He is currently the Coordinator of the Biotechnology Engineering Program (Virtual Unit) at UNAM. He teaches courses in Biology, Social and Solidarity Economy, Introduction to Biotechnology, Community Engagement Awareness, and Information Management Tools. He was Coordinator of the Projects Department at the Technology Transfer Office of the Autonomous Indigenous University of Mexico and is a member of the Sinaloa System of Researchers and Technologists. He has also been a Professor-Researcher at the same institution, where he taught courses in the Bachelor's Degree in Forestry Engineering and Sustainable Development (Forest Entomology, Biodiversity, Thesis Seminar, Environmental Projection, and Project Formulation and Evaluation), as well as in the Graduate Program in Sciences in Sustainable Development of Natural Resources (Aquaculture Production, Environmental Pollution, and Ecotoxicology). He has directed and advised two undergraduate theses and monographs and three graduate theses and dissertations. He was a member of the Academic Group on Sustainable Development. His research experience focuses on adding value to agroforestry products, pollution, and environmental toxicology. He has published articles in JCR-indexed, peer-reviewed, and popular science journals. In addition, he participates in various scientific societies and has served as a project evaluator at events such as the Pacific Regional Science Fair and the National Science Fair. He was a member of the National System of Researchers (SNI) as a Candidate from July 2002 to December 2005 and received recognition from the CONACYT Repatriation Program in 1999. His professional experience includes leading several research and outreach projects funded by COSNET and SECIHTI, as well as holding various academic and administrative positions, including: Head of the Toxic Waste Laboratory at the Center for Research in Food and Development, A.C. (Delicias Unit), and Director of Research at the Autonomous Indigenous University of Mexico (UNAM). He has been a candidate for Rector of UNAM in Los Mochis, Sinaloa, Mexico, on three occasions (2017, 2021, and 2025). He has also worked at the National Technological Institute of Mexico (Los Mochis Campus), the University of the Sea, the Autonomous University of the West, the University of Guadalajara and the Center for Research in Food and Development, A.C. (Delicias Unit), where he has developed research projects and taught courses related to Fisheries Biology, Fisheries Technology, Ecology, Zoology, Aquaculture, Environmental Toxicology and Ecotoxicology.

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