Isolation of Plastic Degrading Microorganisms from Clifford University Dumpsites

Abstract

The accumulation of plastic waste on the environment poses a significant threat to ecosystem and human health, necessitating effective mitigation strategies. This study explores the potential of microorganism in bioremediating plastic pollution. Soil samples were collected from Clifford University dumpsites, and microorganisms were isolated using serial dilution techniques. The ability of these microorganisms to degrade plastic was assessed using polyethylene as substrates. Characterization of the isolated microorganism through morphological and biochemical analysis revealed Streptococcus sp., Pseudomonas sp., Bacillus sp., Proteus sp., Staphylococcus aureus and Micrococcus sp. with the potential to degrade plastics. Further degradation study of the Poly ethylene by determination of Weight Loss revealed Micrococcus sp. Bacillus sp. and Streptococcus sp. with higher potential for plastic degradation and Micrococcus sp. with highest significant potential of 3.8% weight loss after 28 days of incubation as compared with others. This research contributes to the development of sustainable solutions for plastic waste management by highlighting the potential of indigenous microorganism in bioremediation.