Scientists in Australia have recently discovered a solution that could help process approximately one million tons of plastic waste each year by using a type of beetle larva known as superworms to “consume” plastic waste.
Researchers from the University of Queensland, Australia, announced today their findings in the journal Microbial Genomics, which contain some very intriguing information.
Superworms Zophobas morio consuming plastic fragments. (Photo: Christian Rinke)
In this study, scientists utilized a type of beetle larva scientifically known as Zophobas morio and fed them plastic fragments. The results showed that due to a specific bacterial enzyme found in their intestines, these superworms can digest polystyrene, which is used to produce commonly used plastic items such as cutlery and takeaway containers. Remarkably, after consuming the plastic fragments, these superworms still gained weight and developed normally.
Researchers believe that this species of superworm, originating from Central and South America, could be the key to addressing the plastic waste crisis, which is not only a pressing issue in Australia but also globally.
One of the study’s authors, Dr. Christian Rinke, stated that in the next phase, his team will focus on clarifying the mechanism of action of the special enzyme present in the digestive system of the superworms and methods to optimize and accelerate the plastic degradation process.
Scientists hope that with this new method, current plastic waste can not only be processed and reduce landfill use, but the process could also generate biodegradable plastic compounds.
According to data from the Australian government, the country releases approximately one million tons of various plastics into the environment each year, of which only 12% is recycled. Therefore, finding a method to recycle used plastics or produce environmentally friendly and rapidly biodegradable plastic products is an urgent requirement.
