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An experiment done by researchers at the University of British Columbia indicated that mealworms had little promise for tackling plastic waste. The study, published in Biology Letters on December 4, projected that 100 mealworms would eat a single disposable face mask composed of polypropylene in around 138 days, or 4.5 months. The findings highlight the difficulties of depending on insect larvae for large-scale plastic decomposition, according to several publications.
Plastic Pollution and Microplastics: An Increasing Concern
The study focused on microplastics, which are plastic bits smaller than 5 millimeters and have been related to serious health consequences such as an increased risk of heart attacks and strokes, according to previous research. Earlier research had shown that some insect species, including yellow mealworms (Tenebrio molitor) and superworms (Zophobas atratus), could breakdown different types of plastics. However, the majority of those experiments used powdered or pure forms of plastic rather than the produced things that people use on a daily basis, according to experts.
Real-World Testing and Observation
Led by ecologist Dr Michelle Tseng, the team used a more realistic approach, utilizing disposable face masks containing extra chemicals from industrial processes. To stimulate ingestion, the plastic was ground into microbits and mixed with wheat bran. According to Dr. Tseng's remark, the insects happily ingested this concoction, known as "face-mask granola."
There was no substantial reduction in the insects' lifespans. However, concerns about the safety of utilizing these larvae as fodder in agriculture, particularly chicken, have been raised. Dr. Tseng stated that mealworms ingesting huge levels of microplastics may not be safe for future use in food chains, as reported.
Challenges and Future Directions
The practicality of utilizing mealworms for large-scale plastic breakdown remains uncertain due to their modest consumption rate. During the peak of the COVID-19 epidemic, Asia alone allegedly utilized 2 billion face masks each day, demonstrating the impracticality of such a strategy. Researchers believe that studying the microbial makeup of these insects might lead to advances in garbage breakdown technology. Nonetheless, limiting plastic consumption is emphasized as the most effective way to address the environmental issue.
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