Microplastic (MP) pollution has emerged as a significant environmental concern, with exposure to it linked to numerous negative consequences for both ecosystems and humans. To tackle this complex issue, innovative technologies that are capable of effectively eliminating MPs from the environment are necessary. In this review, we examined a variety of bare and composite photocatalysts employed in the degradation process. An in-depth assessment of the benefits and drawbacks of each catalyst was presented. Additionally, we explored the photocatalytic mechanisms and factors influencing degradation. The review concludes by addressing the current challenges and outlining future research priorities, which will help guide efforts to mitigate MP contamination.

Indigo is a plant dye that has been used as an important dye by various ancient civilizations throughout history. Today, due to environmental and health concerns, plant indigo is re-entering the market. Strobilanthes cusia (Nees) Kuntze is the most widely used species in China for indigo preparation. However, other species under Strobilanthes have a similar feature. In this work, 12 Strobilanthes spp. were analyzed using electrochemical fingerprinting technology. Depending on their electrochemically active molecules, they can be quickly identified by fingerprinting. In addition, the fingerprint obtained under different conditions can be used to produce scattered patter and heatmap. These patterns make plant identification more convenient. Since the electrochemically active components in plants reflect the differences at the gene level to some extent, the obtained electrochemical fingerprints are further used for the discussion of phylogenetics.

On-the-go soil sensors have emerged as promising tools for real-time, high-resolution soil nutrient monitoring in precision agriculture. This review provides a comprehensive overview of the current state-of-the-art in on-the-go soil sensor technology, discussing the potential benefits, limitations, and applications of various sensor types, including optical sensors (Vis-NIR, MIR, ATR spectroscopy) and electrochemical sensors (ISEs, ISFETs). The integration of these sensors with positioning systems (GPS) enables the generation of detailed soil nutrient maps, which can guide site-specific management practices and optimize fertilizer application rates. However, factors such as soil moisture, texture, and heterogeneity can affect sensor performance, necessitating robust calibration models and standardized protocols. Future perspectives highlight the need for multi-sensor systems, incorporation into IoT networks for smart farming, and enhancing affordability and adoptability of on-the-go sensor technologies to promote widespread adoption in precision agriculture.