Plastic-Munching Microbes!

What do you think of when you hear the word pollution? If you think of stuff that is dangerous to the environment, you're on the right track! One of the bigger threats is plastic pollution. Over 8 billion tons of plastic has been produced since the 1950's, and most of it has ended up in water systems and land where it does not belong.

Plastic pollution harms animals and people. Animals may get tangled in plastic or accidentally eat it, which makes them sick. People may suffer disruptions to our hormones, or substances in our bodies that tell our organ systems what to do.

Fortunately, some bacteria, tiny organisms we can only see with a microscope, can "eat" plastic! When they metabolize, or break down the substance for energy, they break down the part that is harmful to the environment. Pseudomonas sp. TDA1, a species of bacteria, can break down polyurethane, a component of some plastics. This species can attack the chemical bonds in the polyurethane, changing its structure and making it safer for the environment.

Microbes are found in the environment, and are quickly, cheaply grown in a lab. Research on bioremediation, or how microbes can clean up pollution, is becoming popular as we understand more about the issue.

Plastic Eating Bacteria

Picture Source: sciencegymnasium.net