Plastic pollution has become one of the most pressing environmental challenges, infiltrating ecosystems across the globe. From vast oceans to urban landscapes, microplastics—tiny fragments of plastic less than 5mm in size—pose significant threats to environmental protection, biodiversity, and human health. In the face of this pervasive issue, a surprising ally may emerge: plastic-eating insects. Could these tiny creatures be a breakthrough in sustainable solutions for global plastic pollution?
Understanding the microplastic menace
Each year, over 400 million tonnes of plastic are produced globally, with at least 14 million tonnes finding their way into oceans. The degradation of larger plastics into microplastics exacerbates the problem, infiltrating marine food chains and eventually affecting humans. Despite advances in recycling technologies, only about 9% of all plastic waste ever produced has been recycled, highlighting the urgent need for innovative approaches in sustainability.
Mealworms and their role in plastic degradation
A recent study by zoologist Dr Michelle Tseng and her team at the University of British Columbia explored the potential of mealworms as partners in addressing plastic pollution. Their research tested the insects’ ability to process plastics in more realistic scenarios. Mealworms were fed a mix of ground-up face masks, a common source of microplastics, and bran, a more palatable food source.
Remarkably, the mealworms consumed nearly half the available microplastics—about 150 particles per insect—over 30 days. They not only digested these plastics but also gained weight, showing no adverse effects on their growth or survival. The insects excreted a minimal fraction of microplastics, suggesting efficient absorption.
Other plastic-eating insects and biological solutions
Mealworms are not the only insects showing promise in addressing plastic waste. Other species, such as waxworms and darkling beetles, have demonstrated the ability to degrade plastics under laboratory conditions. Waxworms, for example, are known to break down polyethylene—one of the most widely used plastics—through enzymes in their saliva. Researchers have identified two enzymes, Demetra and Ceres, responsible for this degradation, offering hope for synthetic enzyme production that mimics this process on an industrial scale.
Another fascinating discovery involves superworms (the larvae of Zophobas morio beetles), which have been shown to digest polystyrene foam. Studies suggest their gut microbiome plays a significant role in breaking down this non-biodegradable material. Scientists are now investigating how to replicate and harness these microbial interactions for broader use in waste management.
Scaling up insect-based solutions
The primary challenge lies in translating these laboratory findings into scalable solutions. While insects like mealworms, waxworms, and superworms can degrade plastics, using them directly in large-scale operations presents logistical and ethical concerns. Instead, scientists are focusing on isolating and replicating the enzymes and microbial processes involved in plastic degradation.
For example, bioengineered solutions could include:
Industrial enzyme production: Synthesising enzymes derived from insect digestion to treat plastic waste in controlled facilities.
Bioreactors: Creating microbial ecosystems that mimic the gut environments of plastic-eating insects to process waste more efficiently.
Hybrid systems: Integrating these biological processes with existing recycling technologies, such as pyrolysis or chemical recycling, to achieve a circular economy in plastics.
Integrating insect research into global efforts
Research into insect-based plastic degradation aligns with the principles of the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and SDG 13 (Climate Action). By addressing plastic pollution through innovative science, such initiatives also contribute to economic equality, offering affordable and adaptable solutions for developing nations that lack access to advanced recycling technologies.
Countries like Japan are already exploring biodegradable polymers inspired by natural processes, while global collaborations are focusing on scaling up bioengineering solutions. Organisations such as the Global Society Institute play a vital role in fostering international dialogue, funding, and knowledge-sharing to support these efforts.
Plastic pollution is a global challenge that requires collective action. The interconnected nature of environmental crises means that no single country or organisation can address this issue alone. Partnerships between governments, NGOs, and scientific institutions are critical to developing and implementing solutions that prioritise environmental protection, social justice, and long-term sustainability.
Plastic-eating insects offer a fascinating and hopeful avenue in the fight against microplastic pollution. From mealworms to waxworms and superworms, these natural recyclers demonstrate the power of nature-inspired innovation. The journey from research to practical application, while challenging, highlights the importance of climate action, collaborative efforts, and scientific ingenuity in shaping a sustainable future.
By integrating biological solutions with existing technologies and fostering global partnerships, humanity can work towards a cleaner, healthier planet.