Approaches for Enhancing Microbial Degradation of Synthetic Plastics: A Review

The term plastic is given to various polymers which can be moulded in different shapes as per the requirement in different sectors. Some plastics are biodegradable while others are not. The biodegradability of plastics depends upon many factors such as polymer characteristics and growth conditions. Because of complex polymeric structure and high molecular weight microorganisms cannot degrade plastics efficiently. So, scientists discover new ways to improve biodegradation. In this review, factors that can enhance plastic degradation by microorganisms including pre-treatment and blending of plastics, use of potent strains, modification in growth medium and biofilm formation are discussed.