Why This May Be the Future of Plastic Recycling

The vast majority of the world’s plastic isn’t recycled because it’s currently cheaper to produce new plastic. But nature has evolved in response. Several species of insects, bacteria, and fungi can break down plastics all on their own. By studying the enzymes that make this happen, bioengineers are realizing ways to degrade plastics that don’t involve burning them or dousing them in chemical solvents. One company has successfully developed a plastic eating enzyme that doesn’t need industrial conditions to work, allowing consumers to add bioplastics to compost piles at home. How did researchers get us to this plastic recycling solution? And does this mean we can have our plastics and eat them, too?

Credit to : Undecided with Matt Farell