Neues pflanzliches Plastik zersetzt sich im Meerwasser, ohne dass Mikroplastik entsteht

Plastic pollution has proven stubbornly resistant to quick fixes. Even so-called biodegradable plastics often linger in the environment, breaking down into microplastics that spread through ecosystems and bodies alike.

Now, researchers in Japan say they have created a plant-based plastic that sidesteps that trap. The material stays strong during use, yet breaks down rapidly in natural settings without leaving microscopic debris behind.