We can't find the internet
Attempting to reconnect
Something went wrong!
Hang in there while we get back on track
From Soil to Solution
Summary
Plastic mulch films used in farming break down into microplastics that build up in soil—and eventually may end up in our food and water. This review summarizes research on certain soil bacteria (Bacillus species) that naturally produce enzymes capable of breaking down both regular and "biodegradable" plastics, offering a promising eco-friendly cleanup tool. While the approach is still developing and faces challenges like slow breakdown speeds, it points toward practical ways to reduce plastic pollution in the food we grow.
The widespread use of plastic mulch films in modern agriculture has led to significant plastic and microplastic (MP) pollution in soils. This chapter examines the potential of Bacillus species as biological agents for degrading conventional plastics such as polyethylene (PE) and biodegradable alternatives, including polybutylene adipate terephthalate (PBAT) and polylactic acid (PLA). It outlines the ecological impacts of plastic mulching and highlights traits of Bacillus , exploring their ecological resilience, enzyme abilities (including lipases, esterases, and cutinases), and adaptability in bioremediation. Environmental factors influencing degradation, such as soil pH, temperature, humidity, and additives, are examined. Strategies to enhance efficacy, such as biostimulation, bioaugmentation, and synthetic biology, are presented. The chapter also addresses challenges, including slow degradation rates, MP residues and regulatory gaps. Future directions involving the use of articifical intelligence (AI)-driven tools for microbial community design, metabolic modeling, and real-time soil monitoring for sustainable plastic waste management in agriculture are also discussed.