Scientists at the International Centre of Insect Physiology and Ecology have made a significant discovery regarding a Kenyan mealworm species, which has the ability to digest polystyrene, commonly known as styrofoam. This finding could provide a breakthrough in addressing the growing plastic waste crisis in Africa.
The month-long study revealed that the larvae of the Alphitobius darkling beetle possess stomach bacteria that can adapt their enzymes to break down styrofoam. Although these mealworms cannot derive complete nutrition from styrofoam alone, they are able to extract hydrogen and carbon from it during digestion.
Styrofoam is extensively used in food containers, shipping materials, and various other products, but it poses a significant environmental challenge as it does not decompose naturally. Africa is projected to accumulate 116 million tonnes of plastic waste by 2060, with alarming rates of plastic waste being discarded or burned in sub-Saharan Africa.
Researchers believe that the mealworm's ability to digest styrofoam may have developed due to the increasing presence of plastic in their habitats. The ongoing research aims to further explore the bacteria involved, with the goal of recreating and distributing these enzymes for broader applications.
While the idea of utilizing millions of mealworms to consume plastic waste is not feasible, the potential implications of this research extend beyond Africa, offering insights into global plastic waste management.