Scientists at King’s College London have unveiled a novel chemical recycling method, leveraging enzymes found in laundry detergents, to break down single-use bioplastics in record time. Published in Cell Reports Physical Sciences, this innovative approach promises a more sustainable cycle for plastics, traditionally seen as a challenge due to their long degradation period.

The team at King’s College London has pioneered the use of enzymes, typically employed in biological laundry detergents, to achieve rapid decomposition of bioplastic polylactic acid (PLA) within 24 hours. This process, 84 times faster than traditional composting methods, signals a leap towards addressing the urgent need for effective plastic recycling solutions. Dr. Alex Brogan, Lecturer in Chemistry at King’s, emphasizes the potential: “Being able to harness biology to deliver sustainable solutions through chemistry, allows us to start thinking of waste as a resource.”

Encouraged by these results, the scientists are now exploring the recycling of other mass-produced plastics, aiming to extend their method’s applicability and further contribute to sustainable waste management practices.

King’s College London’s research into enzyme-based recycling represents a promising development in the fight against plastic waste, offering a faster, more efficient route to recycling bioplastics and fostering a sustainable, circular economy.

Source: King’s College London

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