Low CO2 levels boost microbial production of biodegradable plastic P(3HB) | carboncredit.io

Researchers at Institute of Science Tokyo found that lowering carbon dioxide concentration to about 1.4% by volume significantly improves microbial production of the biodegradable plastic poly[(R)-3-hydroxybutyrate] (P(3HB)). Using a nonflammable gas fermentation system with Ralstonia eutropha bacteria, the team achieved higher polymer yields and more efficient CO2 conversion under low CO2 conditions. The study also showed that increasing the enzyme carbonic anhydrase further boosted plastic production when CO2 was scarce. This approach offers a safer and more efficient way to convert low-concentration CO2 sources, such as industrial exhaust gases, into biodegradable plastics. The process supports sustainable carbon recycling and could help reduce greenhouse gas emissions while producing eco-friendly materials. The findings were published in ACS Sustainable Chemistry & Engineering.