Role of algae in biodegradation of plastics

Abstract

The use of plastic materials has become indispensable in our society. Therefore, plastic waste continuously accumulates in the environment, which endangers every form of life. It typically jams sewage pipes and floats across agricultural areas on rivers, streams, canals, ponds, lakes, and seas. Because a better technique to break down plastic has yet to be discovered, plastic disposal continues to be a significant concern. Chemical treatment, landfilling, and incineration are some of the techniques used in polymer degradation that have a detrimental effect on ecosystems. Algae-based biodegradation is a promising method for the environmentally benign break down of plastic waste. During the process of mineralization, algae transforms plastic trash into metabolites such as water and carbon dioxide as well as new biomass, which are important to the environment. Biodegradation is triggered by the interaction of algae enzymes with plastic polymers, which results in the weakening of chemical bonds. When it comes to deterioration, the significant factors to consider are temperature, availability of light, oxygen, and moisture. Providing insight into current practices and perspectives on bioremediation and the role played by microorganisms such as algae in the breakdown of plastics is the goal of this chapter.