A new process has been developed to mitigate the impact of anthropogenic waste on the environment. The approach uses engineered bacteria, Pseudomonas putida, to break down various types of waste, including sugars, acids, and oils. A life cycle assessment found that this process could reduce the carbon footprint of waste management by up to 62% compared to traditional methods, and be more cost-effective by up to 37%. The bacteria’s adaptability allows it to process a mix of waste materials, making the system robust and reliable. The technology has been demonstrated through the production of two products: bioplastics, a biodegradable alternative to petroleum-based plastics, and therapeutic proteins, such as human insulin analogues and interferon-alpha2a. This dual output highlights the versatility of the system, which could cater to both high-volume products and high-value applications.
Microorganisms transform organic waste into valuable resources.
