Biotransformation Technology, Transforming Plastic Waste into Biodegradable Waste

Biotransformation Technology: Biotransformation technology is a novel approach that is used to process plastic waste into biodegradable waste. Biotransformation Technology is also important for UPSC Prelims Exam 2023 and UPSC Mains Exam (GS Paper 3- Development in the field of science and technology).

Biotransformation Technology in News

A startup based in London’s Imperial College claims to have created a technology that has the potential to transform plastics into a biodegradable state. The company refers to this process as “biotransformation,” which it asserts can naturally break down plastic packaging waste using microbes, resulting in biodegradation without the creation of any microplastics.

Down To Earth Magazine July 2022, Part 1 | Single Use Plastic Ban

Oceana Report on Packaging Plastic Waste

According to a report by Oceana, Amazon is believed to have produced around 321 million kilograms (709 million pounds) of plastic waste through its packaging in 2021. This massive amount of plastic waste is a result of the billions of boxes that the e-commerce giant shipped worldwide.

• Oceana is a group advocating for ocean conservation.
• Oceana’s report indicates that the plastic waste generated by Amazon in 2021 would be enough to circle the Earth over 800 times if converted into air pillows.
• Although Amazon denied Oceana’s findings and stated that it has implemented a science-based approach to minimize packaging waste, much remains to be done.

What is Biotransformation Technology?

Biotransformation technology is a novel approach of processing plastics that are not properly disposed of.

• Biotransformation Technology is a joint project by Polymateria, a UK-based startup, and Imperial College in London.
• The plastics created using this technology have a predetermined lifespan, during which they maintain the same look and feel as traditional plastics while maintaining their quality.
• After their lifespan is over and they are exposed to the environment, they disintegrate and biodegrade into bioavailable wax that can be consumed by microorganisms, resulting in the conversion of waste into water, CO2, and biomass.
• According to the company, this technology is the world’s first to ensure that polyolefins biodegrade completely in an open environment without producing microplastics.

Need of Biotransformation Technology

According to the official date, the country generates 3.5 billion kgs of plastic waste annually, with a third of that coming from packaging waste.

• In 2019, e-commerce firms were estimated to have generated over a billion kilograms of plastic packaging waste globally.
• A joint research project by IIT Delhi’s Department of Management Studies and Sea Movement found that in 2019, Amazon produced around 210 million kgs (465 million pounds) of plastic from packaging waste, with up to 10 million kgs (22.44 million pounds) of it ending up in freshwater and marine ecosystems as pollution.
• However, Amazon India and Flipkart have both eliminated single-use plastics in their fulfilment centers and supply chains, respectively.

Biotransformation Technology Application

The implementation of biotransformation technology could particularly benefit the food packaging and healthcare industries by reducing their waste. According to the company that developed the technology, the increase in cost associated with its use is relatively small when compared to conventional plastics that do not incorporate this innovation.

• This technology has already been adopted by some popular Indian companies in the food and packaging industries.
• In addition, the healthcare and pharmaceutical industries can utilize this technology to create eco-friendly alternatives for non-woven hygiene products such as diapers, sanitary napkins, and facial pads.

Alternatives to Reduce Plastic Waste

Switching to packaging made of jute or paper has the potential to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainability in the paper industry, while also saving on the cost of importing ethylene solutions.

• However, wooden packaging is not as viable an option as it would increase bulkiness and costs.
• The Government of Tamil Nadu in Chennai held a National Expo and Conference for Startups to increase awareness of alternatives to single-use plastics.
• Among the alternatives showcased were products made from coir, bagasse, rice and wheat bran, plant and agricultural residue, banana and areca leaves, jute, and cloth.

Steps taken by Indian Government to Reduce Plastic Waste

To promote sustainability, the Indian government has launched several initiatives.

• One such initiative is the plastic waste management gazette which aims to address the growing plastic pollution caused by single-use plastics.
• In addition, a ban on single-use plastics was imposed last year.
• The National Dashboard on Elimination of Single Use Plastic and Plastic Waste Management brings together all stakeholders to monitor progress in eliminating single-use plastics and managing such waste.
• The Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) portal helps to improve accountability and traceability while facilitating compliance reporting with regard to EPR obligations of producers, importers and brand owners.
• Furthermore, India has developed a mobile app that allows users to report issues related to single-use plastics, such as their sale, usage, or manufacturing in their area.

Biotransformation Technology FAQs

Q. What is biotransformation technology?

Ans. Biotransformation technology is a process that involves the use of microorganisms to break down organic materials and convert them into biodegradable substances.

Q. How does biotransformation technology work?

Ans. Biotransformation technology works by using microorganisms such as bacteria and fungi to break down organic materials. The microorganisms feed on the organic materials and convert them into biodegradable substances.

Q. What are the benefits of biotransformation technology?

Ans. The benefits of biotransformation technology include the reduction of waste and pollution, the production of biodegradable materials, and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

Q. What are some applications of biotransformation technology?

Ans. Biotransformation technology can be used in a variety of applications, including waste management, agriculture, biodegradable packaging, and the production of biofuels.

Q. Is biotransformation technology expensive?

Ans. The cost of biotransformation technology can vary depending on the specific application and the size of the project. However, in some cases, biotransformation technology can be more cost-effective than traditional methods.

Single-use Plastics: Harmful Effects, Environmental Impact, and Steps at Global Level

Single-use Plastics: Harmful Effects, Environmental Impact, and Steps at Global Level

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