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Nature’s Recyclers: A Research Review on the Role of Plastic-Eating Microscopic Organisms in intercept Global Pollution
Summary
This review examines microorganism-mediated plastic biodegradation as a sustainable alternative to landfilling, incineration, and mechanical recycling, surveying bacterial and fungal species capable of breaking down common polymers including polyethylene, polystyrene, and PET. The review highlights how the COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated plastic waste accumulation and underscores the need to scale up biological degradation strategies.
Plastic has become an essential component of modern science and industry due to its widespread use, which is characterized by its remarkable durability and protective qualities.However, it is precisely these characteristics-its resistance to degradation and widespread use-that have resulted in a significant problem for the environment: plastic waste that persists in the ecosystem indefinitely.A sustainable solution has not been provided by landfilling, incineration, or mechanical recycling as traditional methods of disposal.The COVID-19 pandemic has made the problem worse by making a lot of plastic waste, especially from people throwing away their personal protective equipment.Microplastic pollution is largely attributable to the widespread use of face masks, primarily made of polypropylene, as well as poor waste management practices.The long-term environmental consequences could be severe if nothing is done immediately.This study aims to:1. Raise awareness about the potential and pitfalls of plastic-degrading bacteria; 2. Investigate the long-term microbial sustainability in plastic degradation processes; and 3. Explore the conversion of plastic waste into valuable byproducts.