Inside the Bioplastics Innovation Hub. Murdoch University
Scientists have developed a new bioplastic that completely disappears, leaving zero environmental impact.
Murdoch University researchers in Western Australia are developing these eco-friendly plastic alternatives by harnessing native microbes.
While synthetic plastics degrade into dangerous microplastics capable of contaminating water, food, and air, these novel compostable bioplastics are designed to be environmentally benign.
Interestingly, this new bioplastic material simply vanishes over time, leaving no trace on land or water.
“We’re looking at plastics that are biodegradable and environmentally benign as in they’re not having any impact on the environment,” said Professor Daniel Murphy.
“And that’s really important because otherwise we’ll continue to have a build-up of plastic in terrestrial environments on land and in the oceans – which is obviously not what we want for future generations,” Murphy added.
Australia’s single-use plastic food packaging creates a significant waste burden, as over 80% of it is not home-recyclable and goes to landfill.
Single-use plastics are fossil fuel-derived products designed for immediate disposal, making them a primary source of global plastic waste.
These are predominantly found in packaging and serviceware, including items like bags, bottles, wrappers, and straws.
“A key product that industry is asking for is a compostable lining for recycled paper or cardboard-based food packaging,” Professor Murphy said.
Currently, compostable packaging made from waste materials exists, but its use is limited to foods with natural protective layers like eggs and fruit.
The team says a bioplastic alternative would be ideal for other foods requiring a “food-safe” plastic lining.
“If this lining was made from bioplastic, it would meet industry requirements, be welcomed by consumers looking for greener alternatives, and leave no lasting legacy in the environment,” Murphy added.
Addressing this issue, the Bioplastics Innovation Hub, a joint venture of Murdoch University and the Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO), brings together microbiology, genetics, and engineering specialists to innovate future packaging solutions.
The team has engineered “completely compostable products” for the food sector, with a YouTube video showcasing straws created from their innovative bioplastic.
To make these bioplastics, the researchers are using microbes found in local environments.
“At the moment, we’re working with some pretty cool bacteria we’ve pulled out of the environment. Australia-made, as you might say,” said Harrison O’Sullivan, BIH researcher and PhD candidate.
Many of these wild microbes, accustomed to uncertain food sources, naturally store excess organic molecules within their cells.
The video explained that the microbes produce a plastic material called PHB, which is a natural polymer. Unlike conventional plastics, PHB naturally breaks down in the environment, making it a sustainable alternative.
Scientists then recover these stored molecules to create bioplastic material.
This innovative research aligns perfectly with Western Australia’s 10-Year Science and Technology Plan, focusing on a circular economy and solving urgent environmental challenges.
“We are hoping to reach a level where bioplastics and biopolymers reach every household. I believe it’s a longer-term plan but will be our end goal,” said Dr Sakshi Tiwari, BIH environmental microbiologist.
This isn’t the first instance of scientists turning to microbes for plastic solutions.
Previously, Korean researchers engineered bacteria to produce polymers with ring-like structures, enhancing plastic rigidity and thermal stability, marking a significant stride towards a petroleum-free plastics industry.
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