Japanese scientists develop seawater-degradable plastic to combat ocean pollution

Researchers from Japan’s RIKEN Center for Emergent Materials Science and the University of Tokyo have unveiled a groundbreaking plastic material that decomposes in seawater within hours, offering a promising solution to global marine pollution and its harmful effects on wildlife. Unlike previous biodegradable plastics, this new material breaks down rapidly and completely, leaving no environmental residue.

In a recent demonstration at a laboratory in Wako, near Tokyo, scientists showed how a small piece of the plastic dissolved in saltwater after being stirred for just an hour. According to project leader Takuzo Iida, the material is as strong as petroleum-based plastic but naturally breaks down into its original components when exposed to salt. These components are then digested by naturally occurring bacteria, preventing the formation of microplastics that often damage aquatic ecosystems.

Although the team has not yet disclosed commercialization plans, Iida mentioned that the research has garnered significant interest, particularly from the packaging industry. The material’s applications extend beyond marine environments; due to the presence of salt in soil, a five-centimeter piece can decompose on land within roughly 200 hours, further enhancing its environmental appeal.

The new plastic is also non-toxic, non-flammable, and emits no carbon dioxide during decomposition. The researchers are currently working on optimizing coloring methods so the material can be used just like conventional plastic in various industries. This innovation comes as global awareness of plastic pollution intensifies, especially in light of events like World Environment Day, observed annually on June 5.