The Potential of Bioremediation for Plastic Waste: Bacteria and Fungi

The use of plastic products in all industrial sectors is increasing at a steady rate, increasing the accumulation of pollutants in water and soil. The spread of these synthetic compounds in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems poses significant risks to human health. Plastic waste has evolved into a global concern in different ecosystems. Biodegradation involves the use of different forms of organisms, such as bacteria, fungi, etc., which are highly efficient in degrading different forms of plastic. Several types of bacteria have such as Pseudomonas, Ideonella, and Rhodococcus shown their ability to break down plastic, and use it as a source of carbon, these bacteria convert plastic into simpler molecules by using enzymes .Further more fungi such as Pestalotiopsis microspora, Schizophyllum, Fusarium, Penicillium, and Trichoderma show the ability to degrade plastic and use it as a carbon source, making them effective tools in plastic waste treatment. Biodegradation relies on microorganisms and their enzymes to break down plastic polymers. The metabolic enzymes produced by these microorganisms provide a useful means to removal of polymers. That makes bioremediation an environmentally friendly and safer option than chemical treatment. However, this approach faces challenges related to the selection of the appropriate microorganism and slower degradation rates compared to chemical methods.