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Exploring Microorganisms from Plastic-Polluted Sites: Unveiling Plastic Degradation and PHA Production Potential

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In this study, we delve into the plastic degradation potential of microorganisms isolated from sites with prolonged plastic pollution, such as plastic-polluted forests, biopolymer-contaminated soil, oil-contaminated soil, municipal landfill, but also a distinctive soil sample with plastic pieces buried three decades ago. In total, 150 strains were isolated and screened for the ability to use plastic-related substrates like impranil dispersions, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), terephthalic acid (TPA), and bis(2-hydroxyethyl) terephthalate (BHET). 20 isolates selected based on their ability to grow on various substrates were identified as Streptomyces, Bacillus, Enterococcus, and Pseudomonas spp. and 5 of them displayed the capability to produce polyhydroxyalkanoates (PHAs), utilizing pre-treated post-consumer PET samples and they can be further utilized for upcycling purposes, laying the foundation for the development of sustainable strategies for plastic waste management.

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Project title

Eco conversion of lower grade PET and mixed recalcitrant PET plastic waste into high performing biopolymers

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This project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon Europe EIC Pathfinder programme under grant agreement No 101046758

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The project leading to this application has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon Europe EIC Pathfinder programme under agreement No 101046758

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Views and opinions expressed are of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Innovation Council. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.