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How might bacteria and fungi be used to break down microplastics?
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plastic pollution
A volunteer collecting plastic nurdles (pellets less than 0.2 inch [0.5 centimeter] in diameter) at Barreiras Beach, Corrubedo, Spain.
Microplastics are small plastic particles that persist in the environment because they are not naturally biodegradable. To address this form of plastic pollution, researchers are investigating the use of specific bacteria and fungi capable of breaking down synthetic polymers.1
These microorganisms utilize biodegradation to decompose materials through a multi-stage process:
- Biofragmentation: Saprotrophic organisms excrete enzymes that target the chemical bonds of polymers, reducing their molecular weight and breaking them down into smaller dimers and monomers.2
- Assimilation: The microorganisms absorb these fragmented compounds into their cells to use as a source of energy or as precursors for other biological pathways.2
- Mineralization: The final stage, where the material is fully degraded into basic components like water and carbon dioxide.2
Certain species have demonstrated the ability to break down chemicals such as polystyrene, polyester polyurethane, and polyethylene. Scientists are exploring the application of these microorganisms in sewage wastewater and other contaminated environments to remediate existing microplastic pollution.1