Just last year, strains of bacteria discovered in Poon Bato Spring, Zambales were found to be capable of “eating” or biodegrading plastic, according to researchers from the biology department of the University of the Philippines-Baguio.
Out of the original nine strains taken from the spring, four strains of bacteria were seen to be capable of biodegrading low-density polythylene (LDPE), commonly used in plastic bags, cling wrap, shampoo bottles and other containers.
According to a study published in the Philippine Science Letter, LDPE is “a commonly-used packaging material that is resistant to degradation under natural conditions” and “contributes to environmental pollution”.
