Već neko vreme, gljivice važe za naše saborce u borbi protiv zagađenja plastikom. Ovi mikroorganizmi imaju nesvakidašnju supermoć da konzumiraju praktično bilo šta, uključujući i stvari koje druga bića ne mogu da svare poput drveta i naravno plastike.
A study by researchers at the University of Hawaii in Manoa found that over 60% of fungi species collected from Hawaii's coastal areas can break down plastic. The fungi were tested with polyurethane, a common plastic used in products like shoes and adhesives. Out of 68 fungi samples, 42 were able to degrade polyurethane, with some showing increased efficiency over time. The study highlights the potential of these fungi to aid in addressing ocean plastic pollution.