For UWA researcher Dr Nishita Narwal, some of the most important environmental challenges are among the hardest to see.

The 2026 Forrest Fellow is investigating microplastics in agricultural soils and grain crops, including how they move through soil–plant systems and how sustainable technologies can reduce their impact.

Image: 2026 Forrest Fellow Nishita Narwal.

Growing up in a farming family in India sparked Dr Narwal’s interest in agriculture and environmental sustainability.

After graduating from Botany and Environmental Science, she completed a PhD investigating emerging contaminants, including microplastics, in urban water systems.

At the School of Biological Sciences, Dr Narwal is collaborating with Dr Kosala Ranathunge, Professor Kadambot Siddique and Professor Nanthi Bolanon research into how microplastics enter and behave in soils and crops.

Essential to her research is how modified biochar, including microbe-enhanced biochar, may help reduce microplastic impacts while supporting sustainable agricultural practices.

While the public's perception of microplastics largely centres around marine environments, she said their presence was much more insidious.

"Microplastics can also accumulate in agricultural soils through sources such as degraded agricultural plastics, contaminated irrigation water, wastewater-derived fertilisers, and plastic waste breakdown," she said.

“Because many microplastics are microscopic, their presence is not always visible, making detection and monitoring essential.”

"The goal is not to create fear but to improve understanding. By identifying sources, pathways, and impacts, scientists can develop effective strategies to reduce risks and protect ecosystems and food systems."

Dr Nishita Narwal

Beyond supporting her research, Dr Narwal says the Forrest Fellowship has provided a strong sense of belonging.

"For me, the Forrest Fellowship is not simply an award, it’s a lifelong community that empowers me to pursue impactful research while growing into the best version of myself, both professionally and personally,” she said.