Scientists in Germany discovered fungi that can consume plastic, which could help address the global problem of plastic pollution

Description

Scientists in Germany discovered fungi that can consume plastic, which could help address the global problem of plastic pollution. Every year, millions of tonnes of plastic waste end up in the ocean. While these plastic-eating fungi are a potential answer, scientists warn that depending just on fungi will not solve the problem. To properly address this pervasive issue, we must continue to focus on minimizing plastic trash at its source. Lake Stechlin researchers discovered that particular microfungi may degrade synthetic plastics even in the absence of additional carbon sources. These fungus can convert certain polymers into biomass.

Key Findings

The investigation discovered 18 fungal strains, four of which had a strong potential to destroy plastics, particularly polyurethane. However, plastics such as polyethylene, which is used in bags and packaging, degrade slowly. Microplastics from tire deterioration are also problematic due to hazardous compounds.

Limitations Of Fungi In Pollution Mitigation

Despite the fungi's promise, Hans-Peter Grossart cautions that they should not be the exclusive solution to reduce plastic waste. The decomposition of polymers still emits CO2, just like burning fossil fuels. The efficiency of fungi is also influenced by environmental factors such as temperature and nutrient availability. The study emphasizes the need for broad initiatives to reduce plastic manufacturing and waste.

Global Plastic Production Trends

Global plastic manufacturing is projected to reach 390 million tonnes by 2021, up from 1.7 million tonnes in 1950. Despite increased recycling rates, fewer than 10% of plastic trash is recycled globally, highlighting the critical need for better waste management solutions.

About Plastic-Eating Fungi

Plastic-eating fungus, primarily from the genera Aspergillus and Pestalotiopsis, have demonstrated the ability to degrade polyurethane, a common form of plastic, in laboratory conditions. Pestalotiopsis microspora was discovered in the Amazon rainforest in 2011, and it has been shown to destroy plastic even in low-oxygen situations. These fungus use enzymes such as laccases to decompose plastics, implying that they could be useful for bioremediation, which involves using biological organisms to clean up waste.

Mycoremediation is a field that uses fungi to clean up contaminated areas by leveraging their plastic-degrading ability. Researchers are looking into these fungus as environmentally acceptable options to recycling and reducing plastic waste. Other fungal species are being researched for their ability to break down microplastics.

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