Landfill bacteria may help reduce plastic waste globally

Researchers have discovered enzymes in landfills that could help break down plastic waste. The world is facing a rising plastic problem, with estimates suggesting that 11 billion metric tons may be in the environment by 2050. Finding ways to recycle plastics through enzymes and microbes shows promise. The study involved scientists from several countries, including China, Italy, Canada, Great Britain, Jamaica, and India. They collected various samples from landfills to analyze the enzymes present. Using advanced techniques, researchers identified nearly 32,000 potential plastic-degrading enzymes. The scientists also studied how these enzymes work and their microbial hosts. They used several scientific methods to predict how these proteins might function. They suggest that further research is needed to confirm these predictions, which could expand the tools available for addressing plastic waste. The researchers believe that bacteria in landfills could significantly reduce plastic pollution. Their findings have been published in the journal PNAS Nexus.