Newly Discovered Enzyme Helps Soil Bacteria Consume Biodegradable Plastics Within a Year

Photo: Adrian Lange / Unsplash
Researchers have identified a specialized enzyme that enables soil bacteria to efficiently break down biodegradable plastics in about twelve months. While traditional plastics remain largely intact over the same period, this natural process offers a promising pathway for reducing long-term waste. The discovery highlights how nature-based solutions can support global efforts to combat plastic pollution.
Researchers have identified a specialized enzyme that enables soil bacteria to efficiently break down biodegradable plastics in about twelve months. While traditional plastics remain largely intact over the same period, this natural process offers a promising pathway for reducing long-term waste. The discovery highlights how nature-based solutions can support global efforts to combat plastic pollution.