IRIS
Journal for Young Scientists
ISSN 2278-618X (Print)
ISSN 2278-6384 (Online)
© Patna Women’s College, Patna, India
A Comparative Assessment of Biodegradability of Plastic Via Microbial Approach
• Rajeev Ranjan • Aafreen Andrea Azam • Bhavya Atri • Divya Singh
Received : January, 2024
Accepted : February, 2024
Corresponding Author : Rajeev Ranjan
Abstract: The accumulation of plastic waste in our environment poses a growing threat to ecology. Biodegradable plastics, often regarded as environmentally friendly, offer a promising solution to this issue. Fuelled by the escalating use of plastics in packaging, these materials present an expanding array of potential uses. This research delved into the biodegradation of two types of plastics across a 30-day duration using the liquid culture technique. Three key microbial species, comprising two Gram-positive and one Gram-negative bacterium, were identified as crucial to the degradation process: Bacillus subtilis, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, and Staphylococcus aureus. Further examination investigated the effectiveness of microbial combinations in degrading plastics within a liquid culture environment.
Plastics are defined as synthetic or semi-synthetic organic solids with high molecular mass, and they
serve as essential inputs for various industries. However, the increasing reliance on plastics, coupled with limited degradation capabilities, has led to a pressing need for biodegradable alternatives. This need is further amplified by the closure of landfill sites and escalating water and land pollution concerns.
Microorganisms offer a promising solution by metabolizing the molecular structure of plastic materials into a harmless, inert humus-like substance. Understanding the intricate interactions and biochemical transformations involved in this process holds tremendous potential. This study aims to inspire and further emphasize the vital role microorganisms play in the biodegradation of plastic substances.
Keywords: Plastic waste, landfill sites, microorganisms, inert humus, bio-active compounds, polymers, incubation, bacteria, liquid culture method, biodegradation, synthetic.
Rajeev Ranjan
Assistant Professor, Department of Zoology,
Patna Women’s College (Autonomous),
Bailey Road, Patna–800 001, Bihar, India
E-mail : rajeev.zoo@patnawomenscollege.in
Aafreen Andrea Azam
B.Sc. III year, Zoology (Hons.), Session : 2021-2024,
Patna Women’s College (Autonomous),
Patna University, Patna, Bihar, India
Bhavya Atri
B.Sc. III year, Zoology (Hons.), Session : 2021-2024,
Patna Women’s College (Autonomous),
Patna University, Patna, Bihar, India
Divya Singh
B.Sc. III year, Zoology (Hons.), Session : 2021-2024,
Patna Women’s College (Autonomous),
Patna University, Patna, Bihar, India
