This breakthrough could be an important step in overcoming one of the most pressing challenges of our time - ocean pollution.

Researchers from the RIKEN Center for New Substances and the University of Tokyo worked on the creation of the new material. They claim that this plastic is not only biodegradable, but also unique in its properties: it is durable, like ordinary petroleum plastic, but decomposes much faster and leaves no traces.

Project manager Takuzo Aida says the new material is as durable as petroleum-based plastic. At the same time, it breaks down into its original components under the influence of salt. Later, bacteria in the environment will be able to recycle them, which will help avoid the formation of microplastics that harm aquatic life.

Since salt is also present in the soil, the material can decompose on land, although it takes longer, about 200 hours for a 5 cm piece.

Another advantage is that the new plastic does not burn, is non-toxic and does not emit carbon dioxide during decomposition. korrespondent.net.