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Biodegradable plastic made from tree glue
Why it is in news?
- Scientists have found that a natural ‘tree glue’ which stiffens plant cells can be turned into a strong, biodegradable plastic.
- The natural glue called lignin holds cellulose fibres together.
- Researchers from the University of Warwick in the UK genetically modified a bacteria called Rhodococcus jostii to turn lignin into useful chemicals.
Recycling
- There are only a small number of organisms that can break down lignin. Lignin is a byproduct of the paper making process.
- Normally the bacteria uses it for growth, and breaks it down into small molecules which it uses as food to grow.
- Plastic is notoriously difficult to recycle – and only 12 per cent of household waste is reprocessed. The rest is either burnt or goes to landfill.