Bacteria That Eats Plastic Found in Soil | Philadelphia News

Philadelphia News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Jul 14, 2026 · 1m

Scientists have uncovered a soil bacterium that can literally eat plastic—specifically polyethylene, the stuff in bags and bottles—breaking it down into simpler compounds. This isn’t lab fantasy: the bacteria thrives where plastic lingers, acting like nature’s cleanup crew. Researchers are now racing to scale it up, cultivate it efficiently, and ensure its breakdown doesn’t create new environmental headaches. If successful, it could revolutionize waste management—offering a hopeful, earth-based solution to our plastic pollution crisis. Listen in comfort:Get a discount on a Soli Pillow…