Swiss scientists have identified cold-adapted microbes that can biodegrade certain types of biodegradable plastics at temperatures as low as 15°C (59°F), potentially revolutionizing plastic recycling processes. This discovery, made in the Alps and polar regions, addresses the need for cost-effective and environmentally friendly methods for plastic degradation, which is typically hindered by the high temperatures required for existing microbial enzymes that function above 30°C.
The researchers isolated 19 bacterial and 15 fungal strains from alpine and arctic soils, assessing their ability to degrade plastics such as polyester-polyurethane (PUR) and biodegradable mixtures like PBAT and PLA. Strikingly, 56% of the strains, including two notable uncharacterized fungal species, effectively digested several types of plastics. The study indicates that microbial enzymes evolved from the breakdown of plant materials may contribute to the ability to digest plastics, despite their recent introduction.
Future research aims to identify and optimize the specific enzymes responsible for plastic degradation, enhancing their stability and production for industrial application. The findings, published in Frontiers in Microbiology, emphasize the potential of these cold-adapted microbes in sustainable waste management solutions and reducing environmental plastic pollution.
