Tag Archive for 'Biodegradable plastic'

SEM images of LCAP films incubated undisturbed for more than a year in pristine forest soil. The arrow in panel (d) points at an object inside of such a cavity that might represent a (damaged) microbial cell; however, these were found very rarely; empty cavities were more representative (a-c). Image credit: Lerner et al., doi: 10.1093/ismejo/wrag203.

Scientists Discover Soil Bacteria Enzyme that Breaks Down Both Plastic and Antibiotics

Sep 7, 2026 by Natali Anderson

Biologists studying how bacteria break down a new generation of plant-based bioplastics — long-chain aliphatic polyesters — have discovered...

Shi et al. demonstrate that biodegradable plastics can release nanoplastics during routine use, highlighting a previously overlooked pathway of consumer exposure. Image credit: Alexas Fotos.

‘Compostable’ Coffee Cups May Shed More Plastic than the Ones They’re Meant to Replace

Aug 26, 2026 by Natali Anderson

Paper cups lined with plant-based plastic are often marketed as the eco-friendly choice at coffee shops and cafeterias. But new research by University...

A carrier bag labeled as biodegradable after three years in the marine environment. Image credit: Napper & Thompson, doi: 10.1021/acs.est.8b06984.

Biodegradable Bags Survive 3 Years in Soil and Marine Environment

Apr 30, 2019 by News Staff

According to a new study, published in the journal Environmental Science and Technology, biodegradable plastic bags are capable of carrying full loads...