Scientists in the US have developed the first truly biodegradable plastic that breaks down in a few weeks under water and heat. The new invention will help reduce plastic pollution across the globe.

The existing compostable plastics do not actually break down due to the presence of polyester called polylactic acid. However, the newly developed plastic comes embedded with polyester-eating enzymes, which are placed during their production process.

How does plastic break down?

When these plastics are exposed to water and heat, the enzymes are released that ensure the plastic breaks down into particles. The enzymes turn the plastic into lactic acid, which also enriches soil microbes. The researchers also suggested that the enzyme wrappers will also break down under UV radiation.

The team also assured that the new plastic does not break into microplastics and 98 percent of it breaks down into small molecules, reports Daily Mail.

“People are now prepared to move into biodegradable polymers for single-use plastics. But if it turns out that it creates more problems than it’s worth, then the policy might revert back. We are basically saying that we are on the right track. We can solve this continuing problem of single-use plastics not being biodegradable,” said Ting Xu, scientist, and paper author.

Step to curb plastic pollution

The normal plastic that is commonly used for daily purposed, doesn’t break down, making it difficult to dispose of them, eventually leading to plastic pollution. Ting Xu and her colleagues thus decided to add enzymes to break down plastic and help reduce the pollution

The team also ensured the prevention of enzymes from falling apart when separated from their familiar environment. They are now looking for ways where the breakdown process can be stopped midway, enabling them to reuse the material. “It is good for millennials to think about this and start a conversation that will change the way we interface with Earth,” said scientist Xu.