Fungal Bioremediation: A Sustainable Approach For Tackling Plastic Waste And Environmental Pollution
Keywords:
Bioremediation, Plastic Degradation, Environmental Pollution, Environmental Restoration, Fungi, MicroplasticsAbstract
Environmental pollution, particularly from plastic waste, has become a significant global challenge.
The widespread use of synthetic polymers such as polyethylene (PE), polyethylene terephthalate
(PET), and polystyrene (PS) has led to their accumulation in ecosystems, posing severe
ecological and health risks. Conventional plastic degradation methods, including recycling and
incineration, have proven ineffective, prompting the exploration of sustainable bioremediation
strategies. Fungal bioremediation, leveraging the enzymatic capabilities of fungi, has emerged as a
promising solution. Fungi, particularly white-rot and filamentous species, can degrade plastics
through the secretion of extracellular enzymes like laccases, peroxidases, and hydrolases, which break
down synthetic polymers into smaller, less harmful molecules. Notable fungal genera such as
Aspergillus, Penicillium, Fusarium, and Phanerochaete chrysosporium have demonstrated
significant plastic-degrading potential. Additionally, fungi play a crucial role in the
remediation of other environmental pollutants such as heavy metals and hydrocarbons through
biosorption and bioaccumulation. Recent advancements in fungal biotechnology, including
genetic engineering and nanotechnology, have further enhanced the efficiency of fungal
bioremediation. However, challenges such as slow degradation rates, environmental conditions, and
scalability remain. This review provides an in-depth analysis of fungal bioremediation, focusing on the
mechanisms involved in plastic degradation, the potential of various fungal species, and the future
prospects for large-scale applications in waste management and environmental restoration. It
highlights the need for further research to optimize fungal-based bioremediation strategies, ensuring
their feasibility and sustainability in addressing the global plastic pollution crisis.
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