Preliminary phytotoxicological screening of personal protective equipment leachates: Species-specific root growth responses in early plant stages

During the COVID-19 pandemic, the widespread use of single-use personal protective equipment (PPE), such as masks and gloves, led to their increasing appearance in natural environments. These items continue to be detected in plastic pollution surveys, raising concerns about their ecological impacts, as PPE waste can release smaller plastic fragments and hazardous compounds during degradation. This study examines the effects of polypropylene mask, latex, and nitrile glove leachates on early root development in 12 species of crops, including legumes, crucifers, monocots, and other dicots. Leachates were chemically characterized using humification indices and plastic aging was assessed via Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The results revealed species-specific phytotoxic responses. Crimson clover showed strong sensitivity to all leachates, with reduced germination, germination index, and root elongation. Among the crucifers, radish was inhibited, while white mustard and cress exhibited root stimulation under certain treatments. Buckwheat showed high sensitivity to latex leachates, while flax showed variable responses. Monocots generally tolerated PPE leachates, rice showed minimal response, and sorghum showed growth stimulation. These differences probably reflect species-specific physiological traits and the composition of the leachates. The use of multiple plant species also highlights contrasting sensitivity profiles that are not apparent in single-species tests. This preliminary screening demonstrates that PPE-derived leachates can alter early plant development in a species-dependent manner. The findings underscore the ecological risks posed by PPE waste and support the need for further studies on the environmental impact of pandemic-related plastic pollution. • PPE leachates have species-specific effects on germination and root growth. • Legumes are sensitive to PPE leachates and show significant growth inhibition. • Crucifers exhibit enhanced growth under certain PPE leachate treatments. • Monocots generally tolerate PPE leachates with minimal growth impact. • The results underline the ecological risks of PPE-derived plastic pollution.