Australian scientists are developing eco-friendly bioplastics using microbes from the country’s unique environment. These bioplastics are designed to break down completely in land, soil, and water. The goal is to address the global plastic waste crisis, especially from single-use food packaging.
The Bioplastics Innovation Hub (BIH), a partnership between Murdoch University and CSIRO, leads this research. Experts in microbiology, genetics, and engineering work together to create plastics that vanish without leaving harmful traces.
A major focus is making food packaging fully compostable. A 2021 study showed that over 80% of food packaging in Australia ends up in landfills and isn’t recyclable at home. Industry needs better options, especially for food items without natural protective layers, like processed foods.
Professor Daniel Murphy, BIH director, explained that a key product is a compostable lining for paper and cardboard food packaging. Currently, some compostable packaging exists but is limited to items like eggs and fruit. For other foods, plastic linings are necessary for safety. Using bioplastics for these linings would meet industry standards and appeal to eco-conscious consumers.
WA-native microbes play a vital role in this innovation. Harrison O’Sullivan, a Ph.D. candidate working with these microbes, said the bacteria are sourced locally. They store organic molecules that can be recovered to make bioplastics. This approach leverages Australia’s natural environment to produce sustainable materials.
The Australian government emphasizes recycling and a circular economy in its 10-year science plan. Addressing issues like decarbonization and biodiversity loss is a national priority.
Dr. Sakshi Tiwari from BIH added that the goal is to make bioplastics accessible to every household.
As concerns about microplastics and pollution grow, this research offers hope for cleaner land and water. Using microbes from Australia’s environment could lead to safer, biodegradable plastics that help protect the planet for future generations.
