Marine fungi that destroy plastic

Researchers at the University of Hawaii have taught wood-degrading marine fungi to “eat” plastic.

The results of the study are published in the journal Mycologia.

According to scientists, the problem of plastic waste is one of the first plans among global environmental challenges.

It is especially acute for the oceans: every year the amount of plastic equivalent to 625 thousand garbage trucks enters the water bodies.

The plastic does not decompose completely but turns into microplastics that accumulate toxins and harm marine life.

Scientists examined 68 strains of marine microorganisms known for their ability to degrade wood and chitin.

The University of Hawaii team tested whether they could handle polyurethane, a plastic widely used in industry and medicine (it’s part of foam rubber and adhesives).

The researchers applied polyurethane to containers and observed which fungi could process it faster.

The 42 most active species were subjected to “training”—they” — they were fed more and more plastic to find out whether they are able to adapt and accelerate the decomposition process.

The results surprised the scientists: 60% of the fungi studied successfully recycled plastic.

Some species were also able to improve this “skill” by 15% in just three months, said study author Ronja Steinbach.