Buzz
A unique type of fungus discovered last year in a landfill in Pakistan could offer a way to solve our plastic pollution problems. As Dezeen reports, the Aspergillus tubingensis fungus has the remarkable ability to break down the bonds in plastic molecules in just weeks, not years.
The findings were shared in a comprehensive 92-page report titled State of the World’s Fungi, published by the Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew in London [PDF]. The report highlights studies showing that this specific fungus could assist in breaking down polyester polyurethane (PU)—a material widely used in things like refrigerator insulation, synthetic leather, and various household items. According to research from Chinese and Pakistani scientists, A. tubingensis was able to decompose the plastic in only two months.
When the fungus attaches to plastic, it releases enzymes that help speed up the degradation process. This natural waste-removal process is known as mycoremediation. Fungi can also break down harmful substances such as radioactive waste, oil spills, and toxic chemicals like nerve agents, as reported by Sky News. Mushrooms have even been used to create sustainable faux leather. Experts suggest that since 93 percent of fungal species are still undiscovered, there could be even more environmental applications for fungi yet to be found.
Certainly, the fungal solution is only a temporary fix, as many experts have highlighted that the true root of the issue lies in plastic production. According to some estimates, the total amount of plastic ever produced by humans is equivalent to 25,000 Empire State Buildings or 80 million blue whales. Shockingly, only 9 percent of this waste has been recycled.
