The study provides a compelling framework for addressing microplastic pollution in agricultural soils using a combined strategy of PGPR, biochar, and UV radiation. However, further mechanistic insights into how these amendments interact to enhance degradation and mitigate phytotoxicity would strengthen the findings. Specifically:
1. Could the authors elaborate on the biochemical pathways through which Pseudomonas aeruginosa and biochar act synergistically to enhance plastic degradation?
2. Given the potential for UV pre-treatment to generate toxic by-products, were any assessments conducted on the chemical composition of the degraded fragments, and if so, what were the results?
3. How does the variability in biochar properties (e.g., feedstock, pyrolysis temperature) influence its efficacy in this system, and are there plans for optimization?