Wastewater Bacteria Break Down Plastic, Offering Pollution Solutions

Researchers have identified a bacterium that can degrade plastic into a carbon source, paving the way for potential waste management innovations.

The bacterium Comamonas testosteroni can break down polyethylene terephthalate (PET), a common plastic in food packaging and bottles.
This process involves converting plastic into nanoplastics, then using enzymes to further degrade it into carbon-rich food for the bacteria.
The key enzyme responsible for this breakdown has been identified, highlighting potential for engineering bacteria-based waste solutions.
PET plastics account for 12% of global plastic use and contribute significantly to microplastic pollution in water systems.
Understanding how these bacteria operate could improve wastewater treatment and inform strategies for reducing environmental plastic waste.