Ontario high school junior Daniel Burd wanted to try to figure out if there was a way to get plastic bags to decompose faster. As it stands, it takes thousands of years for the wasteful objects to disintegrate. But by using bacteria, he figured out how to make it happen in a mere three months.
WCI student isolates microbe that lunches on plastic bags
Daniel Burd’s project won the top prize at the Canada-Wide Science Fair in Ottawa. He came back with a long list of awards, including a $10,000 prize, a $20,000 scholarship, and recognition that he has found a practical way to help the environment.
He knew plastic does eventually degrade, and figured microorganisms must be behind it. His goal was to isolate the microorganisms that can break down plastic — not an easy task because they don’t exist in high numbers in nature.
Oh wow! Personally I have avoided the use of plastic bags simply because they are known for not being enviromentally safe. But this kid has changed it all! Now I can actually use those wonderful handles that come with the using of a regular plastic bag! Congratulations to the student who discovered how to decompose plastic bags!
by Stephanie (Sep 12, 2008 at 3 AM)Also, I am very impressed with the ability to decompose these plastic enemies in only 3 months. That is just beyond amazing. If only I could dedicate myself to such a cause. This student must have a set of very proud parents. Even when I try to avoid using those plastic bags sometimes I had use them because they didn’t offer any other options so I reuse them as mini trash bags but I might give this method a try, anything for good ole’ mother earth!
by Stephanie (Sep 12, 2008 at 3 AM)Sorry for leaving so many comments but I just can’t seem to get across thoroughly enough how wonderful this experiment is. This student has practically lit up my life and put a permanent smile on my face. It is so difficult to find places nowadays that have paper bags instead of plastic but thanks to this kid I won’t have to bother anymore.
by Stephanie (Sep 12, 2008 at 3 AM)I already know how to decompose plastic bags in about 3 months: simply leave them out in the sun.
by Dan Denver (Sep 14, 2008 at 5 AM)I’m referring to plastic grocery bags, now.
They will disintegrate all by themselves. They are made that way. Funny no one knows this…
Of course, the problem is that putting ANYTHING into a landfill stops all decomposition. That is why we have typhoid fever and a host of other bad bugs running rampant through landfills due to the callous discarding of so-called disposable diapers. Solution: start composting.