Science Corner – Bacteria That Eats Plastic

Amazing bacteria that eats plastic!

Researchers have found the common type of bacteria – comamonas testosterone – can use PET plastic as a source of energy. PET (polyethylene terephthalate) is used in drink bottles and food packaging; it makes up 12% of the plastic produced each year but accounts for more than half of the plastic waste found in rivers and sewars. PET doesn’t break down naturally – it can last for hundreds of years – and so this process could be a solution to get rid of plastics in the environment.

To find out more read ‘First News’ issue 956 – copies can be found in the school library.