Biodegradable bioplastic from potato starch produced in 24 hours using modified bacterium Bacillus subtilis

Researchers at the University of Barcelona have developed a biodegradable bioplastic called polyhydroxybutyrate (PHB) using potato starch and a genetically modified bacterium. The process uses Bacillus subtilis engineered with CRISPR-Cas9 to convert raw starch into PHB in just 24 hours, achieving yields comparable to commercial standards. This innovation could reduce reliance on petroleum-based plastics and lower carbon emissions from plastic production. The study published in Bioresource Technology shows that the modified bacterium can produce 5.8 g/L of PHB, making up over half of its dry cell weight. Potato starch is a low-cost agricultural byproduct, which helps keep production affordable and scalable. The bioplastic is renewable and biodegradable, offering a path toward a more circular economy and less persistent plastic waste in the environment.