Leiden University is currently at the forefront of plastic research, with one in five bacteria being found to be able to degrade these materials. This groundbreaking discovery was made by Jo-Anne Verschoor, a researcher at the university, who found that more than 18 percent of bacterial strains in his experiments were able to break down plastics effectively. However, it was discovered that bacteria require specific conditions to do this, such as being starved of other nutrients.
Verschoor’s findings, published in the scientific journal Nature Communications Biology, have significant implications for addressing plastic waste problems. By identifying bacteria that can break down plastic into smaller particles, recycling processes could become more efficient. This discovery was made by chance while researchers at Leiden University were investigating new antibiotics.
In laboratory experiments, Verschoor exposed different species of bacteria to various substances and conditions to observe their ability to break down plastic. Previous research on the decomposition of plastics by bacteria has focused on which types of bacteria thrive in landfills. However, Verschoor’s research could potentially broaden the range of bacteria that can be utilized to break down plastic.
The global plastic waste crisis is a pressing issue that requires innovative solutions. Verschoor’s discovery holds promise for finding effective ways to recycle plastics more efficiently and reducing the environmental impact of plastic waste.