Scientists have discovered bacteria that can break down plastic, and some of these microbes appear to have evolved this ability in response to plastic pollution in their environment.
Natural Evolution
In 2016, researchers found bacteria near a Japanese recycling plant that could digest PET plastic, the type used in water bottles. The enzymes they produce break plastic's chemical bonds, converting it into simpler compounds the bacteria can metabolize. Similar plastic-eating microbes have since been found worldwide.
Engineering Better Bacteria
Scientists are now enhancing these natural abilities through genetic engineering. Modified bacteria can break down plastic faster and handle a wider variety of plastic types. Some researchers envision bacterial recycling facilities that could process plastic waste at industrial scales.
While not a complete solution to plastic pollution, these microbes offer a promising tool for managing waste and potentially converting plastic into valuable chemicals.
This article was generated by AI to provide informational content.