University of Waterloo Researchers Turn to Biotechnology to Combat Plastic Pollution

Research teams at the University of Waterloo collaborate to tackle the growing plastic pollution crisis using synthetic biology, microbial engineering, and engineering. The researchers aim to identify and develop new strategies to break down and upcycle plastic waste and promote a more sustainable and circular plastics economy.

Waterloo's research group explores microbial pathways that turn plastic into energy sources and enzyme-based methods that degrade PET plastics in wastewater. Their studies show that certain microbes can simultaneously metabolize carbon dioxide and plastic waste. The research team also looks into evolving microbes that “eat” plastics and engineering synthetic symbiotic bacterial consortia for the bioconversion of plastic waste.

Early findings show that engineered microbes and redesigned materials could enable more sustainable plastic degradation and upcycling systems. This method offers a great advantage for reducing plastic pollution. The researchers conclude that combining expertise across disciplines strengthens the potential for long-term solutions toward building a circular plastics economy.

For more information, read the article from the University of Waterloo.