Scientists Create Plastic That Decomposes in Deep Sea

Scientists Create Plastic That Decomposes in Deep Sea
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According to an article from SciTech Daily, a new eco-friendly plastic called LAHB has been developed by scientists that can biodegrade in the deep ocean. Unlike conventional plastics that persist for decades, LAHB lost more than 80% of its mass after 13 months in a real-world test nearly a kilometer below the surface.

The plastic’s decomposition is a result of deep-sea microbes actively breaking down the material using specialized enzymes. These microbial communities convert the plastic into harmless byproducts like carbon dioxide and water, effectively creating a natural recycling loop in the deep ocean.

The research team submerged LAHB films at a depth of 855 meters (approximately 2,800 feet) near Hatsushima Island for the experiment. The findings of this study establish LAHB as a safer biodegradable plastic, supporting global efforts to reduce marine plastic waste.