Japan develops sea-dissolving plastic that breaks down in hours – A game changer for ocean pollution

Researchers in Japan have created an innovative plastic material that dissolves in seawater within hours, offering a promising solution to the pressing issue of ocean pollution and its harmful effects on marine life.

While scientists globally have been exploring biodegradable plastics, a team from the RIKEN Center for Emergent Matter Science and the University of Tokyo claims their new material degrades significantly faster without leaving behind any toxic residues.

At a lab in Wako, close to Tokyo, the team demonstrated a small piece of this plastic vanishing in a saltwater container after roughly an hour of stirring.

Though commercialization plans are still in development, project leader Takuzo Aida mentioned that their breakthrough has already sparked considerable interest, particularly from the packaging sector.

Researchers worldwide are racing to find innovative strategies to counter the escalating plastic waste crisis, a challenge underscored by awareness initiatives like World Environment Day, occurring tomorrow.

According to forecasts by the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP), plastic pollution is projected to triple by 2040, potentially introducing 23 to 37 million metric tons of waste into the oceans each year.

“Children don’t have the choice of the planet they’ll inherit. As scientists, it’s our responsibility to provide them with the best possible environment,” Aida remarked.

The Japanese scientist highlighted that the new material matches the strength of petroleum-based plastics but breaks down into its original components when in contact with salt. These components can be naturally decomposed by bacteria, thereby preventing the creation of microplastics, which are detrimental to marine life and enter the food chain.

Aida further noted that since salt is also present in soil, a five-centimeter piece of this plastic degrades on land in just over 200 hours.

Once coated, the material can be utilized just like conventional plastic. The team is currently working to enhance the coating techniques.

Aida concluded by stating that this plastic is non-toxic, non-flammable, and does not emit carbon dioxide, positioning it as an eco-friendly alternative to traditional plastics.