Press releases

Belarusian researchers seek biological solutions to plastic waste

An archive photo

MINSK, 6 August (BelTA) – Belarusian scientists are exploring ways to break down plastic, BelTA learned from Aleksandr Shepshelev, Director of the Institute of Microbiology of the National Academy of Sciences of Belarus.

One of the institute’s key areas of research is environmental biotechnology. “Microorganisms break down a wide range of pollutants (both organic and chemical) that enter wastewater. We have extensive experience in this field, built on significant scientific achievements. Every year, we sign around 10 contracts with various Belarusian enterprises to launch or optimize wastewater treatment facilities. These include utilities and industrial enterprises. Our research combines practical applications with fundamental science. We are searching for new active microorganisms capable of decomposing highly complex compounds that enter the soil,” Aleksandr Shepshelev said.

As an example, he cited the work of one of the institute’s young researchers, who discovered a microorganism from the Slepianskaya Waterway System that has the potential to break down plastic. “Naturally, it can only cope with the simplest types of plastic. Nevertheless, studying its genome has already produced valuable results. We now understand which genetic mechanisms are responsible for this capability and can move forward with research aimed at finding ways to address this issue,” he noted.

The institute is also conducting research to identify microorganisms capable of breaking down rubber and other complex chemical compounds that enter the environment.

print version

make home page

add to bookmarks