Climate change and environmental pollution are well-known challenges, but a new and often underestimated threat is emerging—one that could seriously compromise global food security: microplastics. These tiny plastic fragments, now found everywhere—from the peaks of Everest to the depths of the oceans—don’t just harm ecosystems. They are also reducing the ability of plants to grow and produce food. Recent research is clear: microplastic pollution could drastically reduce global agricultural output and put millions of people at risk of food insecurity over the next twenty years.

Microplastics originate from the breakdown of plastic waste and infiltrate both soil and oceans, where they are absorbed by plants. Once inside plant systems, they block the absorption of sunlight, water, and nutrients, while releasing toxic substances that impair growth.

A study by Nanjing University found that microplastics reduce photosynthesis by 12% in land plants and by 7% in marine algae. The impact is significant: each year, between 54 and 177 million tonnes of staple crops such as wheat, rice, and corn are lost. Oceans are also affected, with losses ranging from 1 to 24 million tonnes of fish and seafood—equivalent to 7% of global marine protein production.

The most heavily impacted areas are in Asia, but Europe and the United States are also experiencing serious consequences. The issue affects us all, especially at a time when the global population is growing and the demand for food is rising.

At Regg3, addressing the impact of microplastics—along with other forms of environmental degradation—means recognizing that sustainability is not a constraint, but a strategic lever to create real value. Our regenerative vision is rooted in a key principle: progress should be measured not only in economic terms, but in our ability to restore, protect, and enhance the natural and social systems we depend on.

Regg3 supports public, private, and non-profit organizations in shifting from a cost-based mindset to one focused on opportunity and regenerative value.

We work with organizations of all sizes and sectors that want to approach sustainability strategically and scientifically, through:

• the use of environmental and social big data,
• alignment with the real needs of local communities,
• the creation of economic value and certified positive impact.

Choosing Regg3 means eliminating the risk of greenwashing, gaining access to reliable data to guide investments, strengthening your ESG position, and unlocking strategic partnerships and new sources of capital.

Are you about to present your sustainability report? Are you sure it complies with the new European ESG directives?
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