Summary:
- Researchers have discovered a new type of plastic-eating bacteria that can break down polyurethane, a tough and durable plastic commonly used in various products.
- The bacteria, named Ideonella sakaiensis 201-F6, was found in samples collected from a wastewater treatment plant in Osaka, Japan, and can degrade polyurethane efficiently.
- This discovery could lead to the development of new methods for recycling and breaking down polyurethane waste, which is a significant environmental concern due to its slow degradation and accumulation in landfills and oceans.