Embedded enzymes speed up plastic breakdown in the deep sea

Scientists have developed compostable plastics with embedded enzymes that break the material down from within, speeding degradation in marine environments from shallow coastal waters to the deep sea. The approach could help curb plastic pollution in the oceans.

• Enzymes embedded in the plastic degrade it from the inside
• Breakdown is faster in both coastal waters and the deep sea
• The method applies to compostable types of plastic