Emerging Contaminants in Soil–Plant Systems: Source, Transformation, Effects, and Mitigation Strategy

Dear Colleagues,

This Special Issue addresses the environmental processes and risks of emerging contaminants (ECs) within the broad context of soil–plant systems, which encompass not only plant-related processes but also key interactions with soil microbiota and soil fauna (e.g., earthworms). We welcome contributions that investigate EC dynamics across these interconnected compartments, with a focus on their sources, environmental transformation, ecological effects, and potential mitigation strategies. The objective is to compile research that elucidates the complete pathway of ECs—from release and transport to biological uptake and trophic transfer—and to assess their bioavailability, toxicity, and risks to ecosystem functioning and human health.

This initiative addresses persistent gaps in the rapidly expanding literature on ECs. While their occurrence is widely reported, an integrated understanding of their behavior, long-term ecological impacts, and interactions within the multi-compartment soil–plant system remains limited. This Special Issue aims to bridge disciplines and methodologies—from mechanistic laboratory studies and field monitoring to predictive modeling and remediation assessments. By consolidating multidisciplinary contributions, it will promote robust frameworks for risk assessment and support the development of science-based mitigation and management strategies for terrestrial environments.

Dr. Zhihua Qiao
Prof. Dr. Fayuan Wang
Guest Editors

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